P2444 indicates the secondary air injection (SAI) pump on bank 1 is not responding to the PCM's commands, meaning it remains stuck on or off. The SAI system injects fresh air into the exhaust during cold starts to accelerate catalyst light-off; a stuck pump disrupts this process and triggers the code.
The pump motor may seize or burn out, preventing it from running when commanded or causing it to run continuously.
A stuck relay can keep the pump powered constantly or prevent power from reaching the pump.
Open circuits, short circuits, or corroded connectors in the pump power or ground circuits can interrupt operation.
A stuck check valve can cause backpressure that the PCM interprets as a pump malfunction.
Leaks in the vacuum lines that control the pump or diverter valve can prevent proper system operation.
Internal driver circuit failure in the PCM can cause incorrect pump control, but this is uncommon compared to component faults.
No. The PCM is rarely the root cause; the fault is most often the pump, relay, wiring, or check valve. Replacing the PCM without confirming driver circuit failure typically does not fix the code.
Yes. A check valve that fails to seal can allow exhaust pressure to backfeed, which the PCM may interpret as a pump stuck-on condition.
Driveability is often unaffected except during cold start, where rough idle or hesitation may occur. The primary impact is increased emissions.
Short-term driving is generally safe, but prolonged operation can lead to catalyst damage due to improper air injection and will cause an emissions test failure.