The P3490: Cylinder 12 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Performance refers to performance issues in the intake valve control system for Cylinder 12. This may result from a faulty control solenoid or valve, or electrical problems that affect circuit performance, leading to inadequate operation of the intake valves.
P3490 – Quick Overview
Code | Information |
---|---|
Meaning | P3490: Cylinder 12 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Performance |
Is it serious? | Yes, this code can lead to performance issues and may cause engine misfiring. |
Possible causes | – Performance issues in the intake valve control for Cylinder 12 – Faulty control solenoid or valve – Electrical problems affecting circuit performance |
How to diagnose? | – Test the performance of the intake valve control for Cylinder 12 – Inspect and test the control solenoid and valve – Check electrical connections and circuit performance – Replace or repair components as needed |
P3490 Meaning
The P3490: Cylinder 12 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Performance code indicates that there are performance issues within the intake valve control system for Cylinder 12. This can be caused by a malfunctioning solenoid or valve, or problems in the electrical circuit that lead to suboptimal operation of the intake valves, potentially affecting engine efficiency and performance.
Step-by-step diagnostic guide
Action | Description | Tools Needed |
---|---|---|
Check for Other Codes | Use an OBD-II scanner to check for additional codes that may provide more context for the issue. | OBD-II Scanner |
Test the Performance of the Intake Valve Control | Conduct a performance test on the intake valve control for Cylinder 12 to evaluate its operation. | Diagnostic Tool |
Inspect and Test the Control Solenoid and Valve | Visually inspect and functionally test the control solenoid and valve to ensure they are operating correctly. | Multimeter, Diagnostic Tool |
Check Electrical Connections | Inspect electrical connections for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage that could affect circuit performance. | Flashlight, Multimeter |
Replace or Repair Components | Based on the findings from previous steps, replace or repair any faulty solenoids, valves, or wiring as necessary. | Basic Hand Tools |
Clear the Code and Test Drive | After repairs, clear the code using an OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to verify that the issue is resolved. | OBD-II Scanner, Vehicle Owner’s Manual |
Recheck for Codes | After the test drive, re-scan the vehicle to ensure the P3490 code has not returned. If it does, further diagnosis may be needed. | 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)