Cylinder 7 Deactivation/Exhaust Valve Control Circuit Open
What does P3415 mean?
The P3415 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Cylinder 7 Deactivation/Exhaust Valve Control Circuit Open. This is a moderate severity code.
Common Symptoms
- Check Engine Light on
- Rough running at cruise speed
- Vibration during deactivation
- Ticking from cylinder 7 exhaust
- Fuel economy decrease
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Failed cylinder 7 exhaust deactivation solenoid Very High
- Open wiring in the solenoid circuit High
- Corroded connector pins Moderate
- ECM exhaust valve driver fault Moderate
- Collapsed exhaust lifter on cylinder 7 Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
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Test cylinder 7 exhaust solenoid resistance
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Inspect wiring and connector for opens and corrosion
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Command solenoid with scan tool to confirm actuation
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Check oil pressure and condition
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Replace solenoid or lifter as needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cylinder 7 always one of the deactivated cylinders?
On GM V8 engines with AFM, cylinder 7 is typically one of the four deactivated cylinders (1, 4, 6, 7). The exact pattern depends on the firing order and engine design.
Can I hear the solenoid click when actuated?
Yes, when using a scan tool to command the solenoid, you can often hear a clicking sound from the valve cover area if the solenoid is functioning electrically.
How long does a solenoid replacement take?
Solenoid replacement typically takes 1 to 2 hours of labor, as the valve cover must be removed to access the solenoids. Lifter replacement takes significantly longer.