OBD-II code · Powertrain (manufacturer / generic)
P3461 Cylinder 8 Exhaust Valve Control Performance
The engine control module has detected a performance fault on the cylinder 8 exhaust valve deactivation system — the actuator response does not match the commanded state.
Is it safe to drive with P3461?
Usually safe for short trips, but don’t ignore it: the underlying fault can get more expensive over time.
Common causes
- Most likelyLifter stuck collapsed
- PossibleEngine oil pressure too low
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Hard
- DIY friendly
- Best left to a mechanic
- Typical labour
- 3–8 h
- Emissions test
- Likely to fail
- After the fix
- A drive cycle is needed before the light stays off
- Parts involved
- Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid, Lifter, Oil Control Valve
Related codes
- P3422Cylinder 3 Exhaust Valve Control Performance
- P3430Cylinder 4 Exhaust Valve Control Performance
- P3437Cylinder 5 Exhaust Valve Control Performance
- P3445Cylinder 6 Exhaust Valve Control Performance
- P3458Cylinder 8 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Low
- P3459Cylinder 8 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit High
- P3460Cylinder 8 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit/Open
- P3462Cylinder 8 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit Low
- P3463Cylinder 8 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit High
- P3464Cylinder 8 Exhaust Valve Control Circuit High
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.