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P3428 Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High GuideMechanic.Com Modern engines are increasingly reliant on advanced electronic systems to boost efficiency and reduce emissions. One such technology is cylinder deactivation, commonly used in V6 and V8 engines.
Known by various names such as Active Fuel Management (AFM), Displacement on Demand (DoD), or Variable Valve Management (VVM), this system allows certain engine cylinders to temporarily shut off during light-load driving conditions to conserve fuel.
However, when issues arise within the deactivation system—particularly in the intake valve control circuit—the vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) may store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).
One such code is P3428: Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of this DTC, including its meaning, symptoms, causes, diagnostics, and repair strategies.
See Also: P3429 Cylinder 4 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit/Open
P3428 Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High
What Is DTC P3428?
The P3428 trouble code is defined as “Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High.” This means that the ECM has detected an unusually high voltage condition in the intake valve control circuit associated with cylinder 4.
In simpler terms, the ECM commands the intake valve actuator (solenoid) to open or close, but the return signal or feedback voltage is higher than expected, indicating a possible short to power, internal solenoid fault, or wiring issue.
This is a performance-related fault in the electrical system and does not necessarily imply a mechanical problem with the valve itself—though prolonged electrical issues can lead to mechanical failure.
How Cylinder Deactivation Works
Cylinder deactivation systems are designed to improve fuel efficiency by temporarily disabling selected cylinders under light engine loads. Here’s how it generally works:
- The ECM monitors engine load, throttle position, speed, and other parameters.
- When conditions are ideal, the ECM activates oil control solenoids.
- These solenoids reroute oil pressure to hydraulic valve lifters, collapsing them and preventing valve movement.
- Intake and exhaust valves for the affected cylinders stay closed, effectively deactivating combustion in those cylinders.
- Once more power is required, the process is reversed and full engine operation resumes.
Cylinder 4, in this case, relies on a dedicated intake valve control solenoid. If the voltage in its control circuit is too high, the ECM cannot properly control its function, leading to DTC P3428.
P3428 Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High
Symptoms of P3428
If your vehicle has triggered the P3428 code, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL)
- Rough or unstable idle
- Poor acceleration or reduced engine performance
- Increased fuel consumption
- Engine misfire or hesitation
- Unusual ticking noise from the engine
- Difficulty transitioning between deactivated and active cylinder modes
In some cases, the issue may not produce obvious drivability symptoms immediately, but over time, it can cause degradation in performance and efficiency.
P3428 Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High
Common Causes of P3428
A variety of issues can trigger a high voltage condition in the intake valve control circuit. These include:
Faulty Intake Valve Control Solenoid (Cylinder 4)
An internal short to power can result in a high voltage signal back to the ECM.
Shorted Wiring Harness
If the wire from the ECM to the solenoid is shorted to battery voltage or another power source, it can cause elevated voltage levels.
Damaged or Corroded Connector
Moisture, corrosion, or physical damage at the connector can create resistance or cross-connection with other circuits.
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
Although rare, the ECM may misread voltage levels or send incorrect signals to the solenoid.
Improper Ground
Poor grounding may lead to inaccurate voltage readings, although it typically results in low rather than high voltage conditions.
Aftermarket Modifications
Poorly installed electrical accessories or engine tuning software may interfere with the solenoid’s control circuit.
P3428 Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High
Diagnosing DTC P3428
Diagnosing the P3428 code requires a systematic approach to isolate the electrical fault. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Use an OBD-II Scanner
Confirm the presence of DTC P3428.
Note any related codes such as P3425–P3430, or general misfire codes.
2. Visual Inspection
Inspect the wiring and connectors leading to the intake valve control solenoid for cylinder 4.
Look for frayed wires, damaged insulation, corrosion, or loose pins.
3. Check for Voltage
Use a multimeter to measure voltage at the solenoid connector with the ignition on.
A high voltage reading (typically above 5 volts when it should be lower) confirms the issue.
4. Test Solenoid Resistance
Disconnect the solenoid and measure its internal resistance.
A typical value is 10–20 ohms. Values outside this range may indicate internal faults.
5. Check for Short to Power
Test the wiring harness for continuity to battery voltage when the key is off.
If continuity exists, the wire is shorted to power, and the harness must be repaired.
6. Inspect ECM Output
If no fault is found in the solenoid or wiring, use a scan tool or oscilloscope to inspect ECM output signals.
Compare readings with manufacturer specifications.
P3428 Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High
How to Fix Code P3428
Depending on the root cause, one or more of the following repairs may be necessary:
Replace the Intake Valve Control Solenoid (Cylinder 4)
If the solenoid is internally shorted, replacing it is essential.
Repair or Replace Wiring Harness
Fix any sections of the harness that are shorted to power or have damaged insulation.
Clean or Replace Connectors
Remove corrosion, clean terminals, and apply dielectric grease to prevent future oxidation.
Replace Faulty ECM (if confirmed)
This is typically a last resort after confirming all wiring and components are functioning properly.
Clear DTC and Test Drive
After repairs, clear the code using a scan tool and perform a test drive to verify that the issue is resolved.
P3428 Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High
Is It Safe to Drive with Code P3428?
In most cases, a vehicle with code P3428 can still be driven short distances, especially if no major symptoms are present. However, continuing to drive with this code can lead to:
- Poor fuel efficiency
- Engine roughness and potential misfires
- Increased emissions
- Possible long-term engine damage if left unresolved
It’s recommended to diagnose and repair the problem as soon as possible to avoid worsening conditions or further damage.
Preventing P3428 in the Future
Regular maintenance and attention to engine health can help prevent DTCs like P3428:
- Use manufacturer-recommended oil and change it at regular intervals.
- Avoid aftermarket electrical modifications unless professionally installed.
- Keep connectors clean and moisture-free using dielectric grease.
- Have the cylinder deactivation system inspected periodically, especially on high-mileage vehicles.
- Proactive care can significantly reduce the risk of electrical circuit issues in modern engines.
Conclusion
DTC P3428 – Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High is an electrical fault indicating that the ECM has detected an abnormally high voltage in the intake valve control circuit for cylinder 4.
While this issue may not always cause immediate drivability concerns, ignoring it can lead to increased fuel consumption, reduced performance, and long-term engine wear.
Proper diagnosis involves checking the solenoid, wiring, and ECM signals. Timely repairs—often involving solenoid or wiring replacement—can restore optimal performance and prevent further damage.
As always, regular maintenance and early intervention are key to keeping your vehicle’s advanced systems running smoothly.
- P3427 Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low - May 25, 2025
- P3428 Cylinder 4 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High - May 25, 2025
- P3429 Cylinder 4 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit/Open - May 25, 2025