AutoCodes – Dodge – P3420 Dodge

P3420 Dodge Code - Cylinder 3 Deactivation Control Circuit High

Quick Answer

When all the criteria has been met,power is supplied to each Multi-Displacement System (MDS) Solenoid when engine is making a transition from 8 cylinder mode to 4 cylinder mode. Common causes include Low oil pressure, Restricted oil passage, Engine mechanical condition. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P3420 Dodge indicates Cylinder 3 Deactivation Control Circuit High.
Common causes
Common causes include Low oil pressure, Restricted oil passage, Engine mechanical condition.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,377
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 05, 2019
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Code P3420 Dodge Description

When all the criteria has been met,power is supplied to each Multi-Displacement System (MDS) Solenoid when engine is making a transition from 8 cylinder mode to 4 cylinder mode. By actuating the solenoid, oil pressure is raised to the pair of lifter that coincide with each particular solenoid. The oil pressure pushes in the locking pins that allows the lifter to collapse, decoupling the valves and camshafts.
OBDII Code P3420 Dodge - Cylinder 3 Deactivation Control Circuit High - AutoCodes.com
P3420 Dodge Code - Cylinder 3 Deactivation Control Circuit High

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P3420 Dodge?

  • Low oil pressure
  • Restricted oil passage
  • Engine mechanical condition
  • Faulty Multiple Displacement System (MDS) Solenoid
  • Multiple Displacement System (MDS) Solenoid harness is open or shorted
  • Multiple Displacement System (MDS) Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P3420 Dodge?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P3420 Dodge code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P3420 Dodge Code

1. What does the OBDII code P3420 mean on a Dodge vehicle?

P3420 indicates a problem in the Cylinder 3 Deactivation Control Circuit, specifically a high voltage condition.

2. What are the symptoms of the P3420 code on a Dodge?

Common symptoms include reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, a rough idle, and the Check Engine Light being illuminated.

3. What causes the P3420 code on a Dodge?

Causes can include a faulty cylinder deactivation solenoid, damaged wiring or connectors in the control circuit, low oil pressure, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my Dodge with the P3420 code?

Driving with this code is possible but not recommended, as it may lead to further engine damage or reduced fuel efficiency.

5. How do I diagnose the P3420 code on my Dodge?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, checking the cylinder deactivation solenoid, and verifying proper oil pressure. Use a multimeter to test for circuit voltage abnormalities.

6. What repairs can fix the P3420 code on a Dodge?

Repairs may include replacing the cylinder deactivation solenoid, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, addressing oil pressure issues, or reprogramming/replacing the ECM.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P3420 code on a Dodge?

Repair costs can range from $100 to $500, depending on whether you need to replace the solenoid, fix wiring, or address ECM issues.

8. Can low oil pressure cause the P3420 code on a Dodge?

Yes, low oil pressure can lead to improper cylinder deactivation operation, triggering the P3420 code.

9. How can I prevent the P3420 code on my Dodge?

Regular maintenance, including oil changes and inspections of wiring and connectors, can help prevent this code from appearing.

10. Will clearing the P3420 code fix the issue on my Dodge?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the Check Engine Light, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.

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