What it means
Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve A Circuit Open: the circuit is open. Likely a broken wire, disconnected connector, or failed component.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
Switching valve A controls where secondary air flows during the AIR system's cold-start routine. The ECU monitors the valve A electrical circuit and sets P0413 when it detects an open path, such as a broken connection or an open solenoid winding. The valve may therefore be unable to operate when commanded.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Open winding or wire
- Pin pushed back out of connector body
- Cracked solder joint inside the module or sensor
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Failed emissions inspection
- Possible roughness during cold start
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame data and related AIR codes to confirm the fault occurred during a cold-start system check and is specific to valve A.
- Inspect the valve A connector for disconnection, corrosion, damaged terminals, or a pin pushed back into the connector body.
- Check the valve A solenoid winding for continuity according to the manufacturer's specification.
- With the wiring diagram, test the valve A circuit for an open between the valve connector and the control module.
- If the harness and solenoid have continuity, check the control module connector and driver circuit for a poor connection or internal fault.
Common fixes
- Reconnect and secure the valve A connector.
- Repair a broken wire or terminal in the valve A circuit.
- Replace the valve A solenoid if its winding is open.
- Repair the control module connection or driver only after verifying the valve and harness.
Can I keep driving?
The vehicle is usually driveable, but secondary air may not reach the exhaust during cold starts, increasing emissions and risking an inspection failure. If the engine runs roughly when cold, avoid unnecessary trips until the open valve A circuit is fixed.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.