HomeTrouble CodesP3435

P3435 — Cylinder 5 Deactivationintake Valve Control Circuit Low

Manufacturer-specificPowertrain (engine & transmission)

P3435 indicates that the control circuit for the cylinder 5 intake valve deactivation solenoid is reading a voltage lower than expected. This circuit drives the solenoid that disables the intake valve during cylinder deactivation, and a low signal typically points to an open or shorted wiring path or a failed solenoid.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Faulty cylinder 5 deactivation intake valve solenoid

The solenoid internal coil may be open, causing the control circuit to read low voltage.

2. Open or high‑resistance wiring in the solenoid control circuit

A broken wire, damaged insulation, or corroded splice can prevent the PCM from driving the solenoid properly.

3. Corroded or loose connector at the solenoid or PCM

Poor contact adds resistance, resulting in a low voltage reading on the control line.

4. Low engine oil pressure affecting solenoid operation

Insufficient oil pressure can prevent the solenoid from actuating, though the code is primarily electrical.

5. PCM driver circuit failure

The PCM output driver for this solenoid may be damaged, but this is uncommon and should be considered only after wiring and solenoid are verified.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve all stored codes and freeze‑frame data; note any related cylinder deactivation codes.
  2. Visually inspect the wiring harness and connectors for cylinder 5 deactivation solenoid for damage, corrosion, or disconnection.
  3. Measure the resistance of the solenoid coil at the connector; compare to manufacturer specification.
  4. With the ignition on, measure voltage at the solenoid control terminal; it should show battery voltage when the PCM commands activation.
  5. Use a scan tool to command the solenoid on/off and observe the voltage change; lack of change suggests a driver or wiring issue.
  6. If wiring and solenoid test good, perform a PCM output test or substitute a known‑good PCM to confirm driver failure.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationManufacturer-specific (P1/B1/C1/U1)

Frequently asked

Does P3435 mean the PCM is bad?

Rarely. The majority of cases are caused by a failed solenoid, open wiring, or a bad connector. PCM failure should be considered only after those items are ruled out.

Can low oil pressure trigger this code?

Low oil pressure can prevent the solenoid from mechanically actuating, but the code itself is an electrical low‑voltage detection. Oil pressure issues usually set separate codes.

Is it safe to continue driving with this code?

The vehicle will likely run with reduced power and the cylinder deactivation system disabled. Extended driving may increase wear on cylinder 5 components, so repair is recommended.

Should I replace the solenoid immediately?

Only after confirming the wiring and connector are intact and the solenoid resistance is out of specification. Replacing the solenoid without testing can lead to unnecessary parts replacement.