P0414 Secondary Air Injection System A Shorted
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve A Circuit Shorted
What does that mean?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means that it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles (Dodge, Ram, Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, VW, Toyota, etc.). Although generic, the specific repair steps may vary depending on make/model.
A stored code P0414, simply means that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected a short in a secondary air injection (SAI) system switching valve circuit. This particular switching valve has been given the designation A and refers to a particular switching valve in a system that uses multiple switching valves, or the only valve if there is a single valve system. A shorted circuit could mean that the effected circuit has come into contact with an unexpected voltage signal or a ground. A shorted circuit will usually result in a blown fuse.
The SAI system pumps ambient air into the engine exhaust system as a method of reducing harmful exhaust emissions. Automotive SAI systems use either a belt driven pump or an electric pump to draw-in ambient air, compress it slightly, and inject the pressurized air into the engine exhaust manifolds. One-way valves, switching valves, anti-backfire valves, and bypass valves (controlled by the PCM) are used to regulate and distribute air pressure and protect the SAI air pump.
The PCM receives voltage input signals from pressure sensors to monitor fluctuations in SAI system pressure. When appropriate conditions are met, the PCM electronically opens the necessary valves and allows secondary air to be pumped into the exhaust system. The PCM monitors SAI pressure sensors and activates the pump when required in vehicles that are equipped with electric pumps.
If the PCM detects a voltage input signal from the SAI switching valve (designated as A) circuit that is indicative of a short (to voltage or ground), a code P0414 will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp may be illuminated.
Other secondary air injection system trouble codes include P0410, P0411, P0412, P0413, P0415, P0416, P0417, P0418, P0419, P041F, P044F, P0491, and P0492.
Code Severity & Symptoms
A stored code P0414 should not be considered severe. The SAI system is related only to exhaust emission reduction and is not vital to engine operation. However, if the SAI circuit is shorted to voltage, constant motor activation could result in a discharged battery.
Symptoms of this code may include:
Constant SAI pump activation (short to voltage) No SAI pump activation (short to ground with a blown fuse) Loud whining from SAI pumpCauses
Potential causes for this code to set are:
Shorted wiring, components, and/or connectors in the SAI system Shorted SAI pumpDiagnostic and Repair Procedures
A diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and a reliable vehicle information source (like All Data DIY) will be necessary to correctly diagnose a code P0414.
Inspecting system wiring, connectors, and the serpentine belt which drives the pump (if applicable) is a good place to begin your diagnosis. Repair or replace shorted circuits as required and retest the system. If the belt is missing or otherwise defective (belt-driven pump) replace it before proceeding. Make sure that the pump turns freely by hand before replacing the belt. I like to check system fuses and relays at this time if the SAI pump is driven by an electric motor.
Continue by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data, if your visual inspection leads to no obvious malfunctions. I like to write this information down because it may come in handy later in my diagnosis. Next, I clear the codes and test-drive the vehicle to se
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