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P3467 Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low GuideMechanic.Com As vehicles become more advanced, so do the onboard systems that manage engine operation.
To improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, many modern engines—especially V8s—employ cylinder deactivation technology. This feature lets the engine shut down specific cylinders when full power isn’t required, such as during highway cruising.
But like any complex system, problems can arise. One such issue is identified by Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P3467, which refers to a low voltage signal detected in the intake valve control circuit for cylinder 9.
This article explores what the code means, what causes it, symptoms to watch for, how to diagnose it, and ways to repair it.
See Also: P3466 Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Performance
P3467 Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low
What is DTC P3467?
The full definition of this trouble code is:
P3467 – Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low
This code means that the Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected a low voltage condition in the electrical circuit that controls the intake valve actuator for cylinder 9, particularly in relation to cylinder deactivation.
Put simply, the computer attempted to activate or deactivate cylinder 9 as part of its fuel-saving operation, but found the voltage on the control circuit to be below expected thresholds—indicating a possible short, fault, or component failure.
How Cylinder Deactivation Works
Cylinder deactivation systems, also known as Active Fuel Management (AFM) or Displacement on Demand (DoD) in GM vehicles, shut off fuel and valve activity in specific cylinders when engine demand is low.
For instance, in a V8 engine, four cylinders may be deactivated during highway cruising, and reactivated under acceleration or heavy loads. The system operates using:
- Valve lifters
- Oil control solenoids
- Switching mechanisms inside the valve train
- Electronic control circuits
The ECM manages all of this through oil pressure and electrical signals. When a problem occurs in the intake valve circuit, it can compromise cylinder operation and overall engine performance.
P3467 Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low
Vehicles Commonly Affected
Code P3467 typically affects GM vehicles with AFM systems, such as:
- Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe
- GMC Sierra, Yukon
- Cadillac Escalade
- Buick V8-equipped models
Other manufacturers with similar systems may have equivalent codes under different naming conventions.
Symptoms of Code P3467
When code P3467 is triggered, you may experience several noticeable symptoms:
- Illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL) – The first and most obvious indication.
- Engine Misfire or Rough Idle – Cylinder 9 may not function correctly.
- Reduced Engine Performance – Acceleration may feel sluggish or delayed.
- Increased Fuel Consumption – Deactivation system not working properly can hurt fuel economy.
- Engine Vibration – Due to uneven cylinder performance.
- Ticking or Knocking Noises – If valve operation is inconsistent.
Note: Some vehicles may show no immediate performance symptoms beyond the check engine light.
P3467 Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low
Common Causes of P3467
Several issues can cause a low voltage condition in the intake valve control circuit. These include:
- Faulty Intake Valve Control Solenoid – The solenoid may have an internal short or failure, causing it to draw too much or too little current.
- Wiring Problems – Damaged, corroded, or shorted wires can drop voltage below acceptable thresholds.
- Loose or Corroded Connectors – Poor connections can interfere with signal flow.
- ECM Output Driver Failure – In rare cases, the ECM itself may be malfunctioning and not supplying proper voltage.
- Oil Pressure Problems – The intake valve actuator relies on oil pressure. Low or dirty oil may affect component function.
- Blown Fuses or Faulty Relays – Electrical protection components could be compromised.
Diagnosing Code P3467
Diagnosing this code involves checking both electrical and mechanical components. Below is a structured approach:
1. Scan for Additional Codes
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for other codes that may provide context, such as:
P3465 (open circuit)
P3466 (performance issue)
General cylinder deactivation or valve-related codes
2. Visual Inspection
Check the following:
Wiring harness connected to cylinder 9’s intake valve solenoid
Connectors for signs of moisture, corrosion, or wear
Look for pinched, cut, or frayed wires
3. Test Solenoid Resistance
Using a digital multimeter:
Disconnect the intake valve control solenoid for cylinder 9
Measure resistance (Ohms); it should be within manufacturer specifications (typically 5–15 Ohms)
An extremely high or low reading indicates failure
4. Check for Ground and Power Supply
Confirm that the solenoid is receiving proper voltage and ground using a multimeter
Check the circuit against the ECM wiring diagram
5. Oil Pressure & Condition
Ensure engine oil is clean and at proper level
Check oil pressure using a mechanical gauge if necessary
6. Use a Bi-Directional Scan Tool
With an advanced scan tool, you can command the solenoid on and off to observe real-time performance and response.
P3467 Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low
How to Fix P3467
Once the cause is identified, the appropriate repair can be performed. Common fixes include:
1. Replace Intake Valve Control Solenoid
If the solenoid is faulty, replace it with a new unit. Always use OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts to ensure compatibility and durability.
2. Repair or Replace Wiring
Fix damaged wiring, including splicing, replacing sections, or cleaning connections. Use weatherproof connectors and secure everything to prevent future issues.
3. Clean or Replace Connectors
If connectors are dirty or corroded, clean them with electrical contact cleaner. If too damaged, replace them.
4. Oil Change
Dirty or degraded oil can hinder the hydraulic performance of AFM components. Perform an oil change using the correct viscosity.
5. Check and Replace Fuses/Relays
Inspect relevant fuses and relays and replace any that show signs of damage or failure.
6. ECM Testing or Replacement
If everything else checks out but voltage is still low, the ECM may need reprogramming or replacement—though this is rare and should be a last resort.
P3467 Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low
Preventing Future Occurrences
To avoid running into code P3467 again, follow these best practices:
- Maintain regular oil changes using high-quality oil at proper intervals.
- Inspect wiring harnesses and connectors periodically, especially if you drive in rough or wet environments.
- Avoid using incorrect engine oils or additives that may clog AFM components.
- Respond quickly to early warning signs like engine vibration or rough idling.
- Use a high-quality scan tool for regular checkups if you’re a DIY car enthusiast.
Conclusion
P3467 – Cylinder 9 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low is a specific but significant code that points to a low voltage issue in the solenoid or wiring responsible for cylinder 9’s intake valve operation.
This malfunction can compromise the effectiveness of your engine’s cylinder deactivation system, leading to rough engine performance and reduced fuel economy.
Diagnosing the issue involves checking the solenoid, wiring, connectors, and oil pressure. Fortunately, many of these problems are repairable without major engine work if caught early. Regular maintenance and prompt diagnosis are the best defense against AFM-related trouble codes.
If you’re not comfortable performing electrical diagnostics or handling engine components, consult a qualified automotive technician to ensure safe and effective repairs.
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