The P3423: Cylinder 3 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit Low refers to a low voltage issue in the exhaust valve control circuit for Cylinder 3. This can be caused by faulty wiring, poor electrical connections, or a malfunctioning control solenoid. The exhaust valve control system regulates the exhaust gas flow from Cylinder 3, and low voltage can lead to improper operation, affecting engine performance.
P3423 – Quick Overview
Code | Information |
---|---|
Meaning | P3423: Cylinder 3 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit Low |
Is it serious? | Yes, this can cause engine performance issues such as misfires, rough idling, and reduced fuel efficiency. |
Possible causes | – Low voltage in the exhaust valve control circuit for Cylinder 3 – Faulty wiring or connections – Malfunctioning control solenoid |
How to diagnose? | – Check the voltage levels in the exhaust valve control circuit for Cylinder 3 – Inspect wiring and connections for faults – Test the control solenoid for proper operation |
P3423 Meaning
The P3423: Cylinder 3 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit Low code indicates that the voltage in the exhaust valve control circuit for Cylinder 3 is lower than expected. This may be caused by damaged wiring, poor electrical connections, or a faulty control solenoid. The exhaust valve controls the flow of exhaust gases, and low voltage can prevent proper valve operation, resulting in misfires, poor combustion, or rough idling.
Step-by-step diagnostic guide
Action | Description | Tools Needed |
---|---|---|
Check for Other Codes | Use an OBD-II scanner to check for additional related codes that may provide more insight into Cylinder 3 exhaust valve control circuit issues. | OBD-II Scanner |
Check Voltage Levels | Use a multimeter to measure the voltage in the exhaust valve control circuit for Cylinder 3. Compare readings to manufacturer specifications to confirm low voltage. | Multimeter, Diagnostic Tool |
Inspect Wiring and Connections | Visually inspect the wiring and connections for Cylinder 3’s exhaust valve control circuit. Look for damaged, loose, or corroded wires or connectors. Repair or replace as necessary. | Flashlight, Multimeter |
Test Control Solenoid | Test the exhaust valve control solenoid for proper operation. Measure its resistance and check it against manufacturer specifications. Replace if necessary. | Multimeter, Mechanic Tools |
Repair or Replace Faulty Components | Repair or replace any faulty wiring, connectors, or solenoids identified during the diagnostic process. Ensure proper installation and test after replacement. | Mechanic Tools |
Clear the Code and Test Drive | After repairs, clear the code using an OBD-II scanner. Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the exhaust valve control system for Cylinder 3 is functioning correctly. | OBD-II Scanner, Vehicle |
Recheck for Codes | After the test drive, re-scan the vehicle to ensure that the P3423 code does not return. If the code reappears, further diagnostics may be required. | OBD-II Scanner |
Free PDF: How to choose OBD2 scanner

I’ve made you a free PDF to choose the OBD2 scanner in 5 minutes.
✅ Which OBD2 scanner is best?
✅ Which type should you get (DIY, Pro, Hobby)
✅ What is the best scanner for the exact brand/feature (e.g best for BMW)
✅ How to get a Bi-Directional tool for as cheap as $40
✅ Discount coupons for scanners
PDF is 100% free and it is designed to help you pick a scanner in less than a few minutes! Not a boring 50-page guide.
Just tell me where to send it.

Hi, I am Juraj “Yuri” Lukacko. I got frustrated by unhelpful and scammy mechanics, so I decided to learn everything about car diagnostics myself. I test dozens of new car diagnostic tools every month along with learning new strategies to fix and customize cars. About Juraj Lukacko (Yuri)