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DTC codes / P34xx · Auxiliary emission controls / P3487

P3487Cylinder 11 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit Low

P3487 is a generic OBD-II code indicating that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a low-voltage condition on the exhaust valve control circuit for cylinder 11. This circuit typically controls a variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid or an exhaust valve actuator that adjusts valve lift or timing; a low signal means the PCM sees voltage below the expected range, which can prevent proper cylinder operation and may trigger a limp mode.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaAuxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light (malfunction indicator lamp) on the dashboard.
  • Rough idle or noticeable misfire, especially when the engine is cold or under light load.
  • Reduced engine power or a limp-home mode with limited RPM.
  • Poor fuel economy due to inefficient cylinder breathing.
  • Audible ticking or tapping from the valve cover area if the actuator is stuck.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, particularly if the fault is intermittent.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty exhaust valve control solenoid or actuator on cylinder 11.
  2. Damaged, chafed, or corroded wiring in the exhaust valve control circuit.
  3. Loose or corroded electrical connector at the solenoid or PCM.
  4. High resistance in the ground circuit for the solenoid.
  5. Internal PCM driver failure causing a low-voltage output.
  6. Oil sludge or debris clogging the solenoid valve, leading to electrical feedback.
  7. Aftermarket or incorrect solenoid installed previously.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Use an OBD-II scanner to verify P3487 and check for related codes; clear codes and test-drive to see if it returns.
  2. Inspect the solenoid connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose pins; repair as needed.
  3. Measure resistance of the exhaust valve control solenoid with a multimeter and compare to manufacturer specifications.
  4. Check for battery voltage at the solenoid connector with the key on, engine off; if absent, trace the circuit back to the PCM.
  5. Perform a voltage drop test on the ground circuit to ensure it is clean and tight.
  6. If electrical checks pass, remove and inspect the solenoid for sludge or mechanical binding; clean or replace.
  7. As a last resort, test the PCM driver output with an oscilloscope or substitute a known-good PCM.

What the low circuit code really means

  • A low-voltage code often results from a poor ground connection rather than a failed solenoid, so always check grounds before replacing parts.
  • Oil sludge from infrequent oil changes can clog the solenoid and cause it to draw excessive current, setting a low-voltage code without any wiring fault.
  • Intermittent faults may only appear when the engine is at operating temperature or during specific driving conditions, so a wiggle test on the harness is essential.
  • The PCM may set this code if the solenoid circuit is shorted to ground, which can be caused by a pinched wire under the valve cover.
  • Replacing the solenoid without addressing the underlying oil contamination will lead to repeat failures.

Can I keep driving with P3487?

You can drive the vehicle short distances to a repair shop, but avoid heavy acceleration or sustained high speeds because the engine may enter limp mode and lose power unexpectedly. If the check engine light is flashing or you notice severe misfiring, stop driving and seek professional help immediately.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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