P3402 code meaning
Cylinder 1 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Performance
Powertrain system Generic code P34xx codes Check engine light
What P3402 means
This code reports that cylinder 1 does not respond as expected when the engine computer switches it off or back on, although the control circuit itself tests fine. Ford lists P3402 in its Variable Displacement Engine monitor for 2020-2023 gasoline engines: it runs continuously during deactivation, entry and exit, between 400 and 4500 rpm and once oil pressure has had about two seconds to build. GM handles the mechanical check for cylinder 1 under its own code P3498 instead. Wiring faults on the same channel set P3401, P3403 or P3404. A driver typically notices a warning lamp, a shake when the engine changes modes, or a misfire on cylinder 1.
P3402 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor0.5 to 12 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P3402
- Check engine lamp on
- Shudder or jerk when the engine enters or leaves reduced-cylinder mode
- Misfire on cylinder 1 (P0301)
- Cylinder deactivation no longer used, higher fuel use
Common causes of P3402
- Most likelyLow oil level, wrong viscosity or aged oil slows the hydraulic switching
- PossibleSwitchable lifter or rocker of cylinder 1 sticking or not latching
- PossibleDeactivation solenoid valve sticking or its oil screen blocked
- Less likelyLeaking solenoid seal lets control pressure bleed off
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Cylinder deactivation solenoidLifterEngine oil
What each part of P3402 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 3 | Mixed range: generic and manufacturer-specific codes. |
| 4 | Area: auxiliary emission controls (catalytic converter, EGR, EVAP). |
| 02 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P3402 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P3402
What does P3402 mean?
P3402 means "Cylinder 1 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Performance". This code reports that cylinder 1 does not respond as expected when the engine computer switches it off or back on, although the control circuit itself tests fine. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P3402?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P3402 fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P3402 is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P3402 to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 12 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will P3402 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.