What the P3443 code means
This code indicates that there is a problem with your intake valve on cylinder number 6. Your vehicle’s control module recognizes that the measured values from the throttle position (TP) sensor, the manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor, and the mass airflow (MAF) sensor are not within the range of the calculated values for cylinder deactivation mode.
What causes the P3443 code?
There are a few causes for the P3443 code. One cause could be a faulty Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid. It could also be that your Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid circuit is suffering from a poor electrical connection, or that your Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid harness is open or, in some cases, shorted.
What are the symptoms of the P3443 code?
Your Check Engine Light will come on to let you know that something is wrong. If you see this, you need to examine this problem immediately.
How does a mechanic diagnose the P3443 code?
You should first be sure that your engine oil levels and pressure are correct. You should then use your OBD-II scanner to collect any diagnostic trouble codes stored by the powertrain control module (PCM). Keep in mind that if the PCM has stored other deactivation or oil pressure trouble codes that you need to examine these first. Always work in the order that the codes appear.
Next, use your OBD-II to clear the trouble codes and to test the cylinder deactivation solenoid 1 by actuating it with a scan tool. A solenoid that is working well will vibrate and make a tiny clicking noise. If the cylinder deactivation solenoid 1 is malfunctioning, be sure to check the oil passages for debris and, if necessary, to clean the oil passages thoroughly. In an extreme case, you will need to replace your solenoid. However, if the cylinder deactivation solenoid 1 is working well, then you should inspect the cylinder deactivation solenoid 7.
You test this by actuating it with a scan tool. If all solenoids check out, you should inspect the oil passages to the lifter. Again, clean the passages if you need to. In extreme cases, the engine block will need to be disassembled and cleaned entirely. But make sure that you are prepared to do this, since it can be complicated and difficult to reassemble.
Common mistakes when diagnosing the P3443 code
A common mistake is to replace your wheel speed sensors, camshaft, and crankshaft position sensors. However, this will probably not solve the problem. This is why it is important that you use the proper diagnostic equipment or take your vehicle to a professional technician who can diagnose the problem for you.
How serious is a P3443
A P3419 is very serious and in most cases should be examined by a professional technician. Not only is a P3443 serious, but it is also difficult to fix, requiring specialized diagnostic equipment. If you do not have this equipment, your best bet is to get to a professional technician and have him or her solve the issue for you.
What repairs can fix the P3443 code?
Depending on the specific issue, several repairs can be done to fix a P3443. One is to replace your cylinder deactivation solenoid 1. However, if this solenoid seems to be working well, then you may need to replace your cylinder deactivation solenoid 7.
You may need to clear your cylinder deactivation solenoid oil passages of debris and dirt, or clean out your lifter oil passages. In more extreme cases you will need to replace the lifters in your engine. In the worst case scenario, or if your engine is packed with debris and dirt, you will need to disassemble the entire engine and perform a thorough cleaning.
Additional comments for consideration regarding the P3443 code
A P3443 can become complex and may require that you dissemble your entire engine, which is time consuming and can be frustrating if you do not have the proper training. Therefore, it is important to do the proper amount of research before you begin to work. If you are thinking of doing this yourself, you might want to contact a trained technician to ask questions about the best way to solve your problem.
Need help with a P3443 code?
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