
P0417 Short circuit in the secondary air injection system switching valve “B” circuit
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P0417 - OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Trouble code P0417 indicates that the PCM (automatic transmission control module) has detected a problem with the secondary air injection system switching valve "B" electrical circuit.
What does the fault code mean P0417?
Trouble code P0417 indicates a problem in the vehicle's secondary air injection system switching valve "B" circuit. This error occurs when the engine control module (PCM) detects an abnormality in the secondary air system, which is designed to reduce exhaust emissions. The abnormality may be due to a short circuit in the secondary air injection switching valve "B" circuit, an incorrect amount of air supplied to the system, or other malfunctions in its operation.

Possible reasons
Some possible reasons for the P0417 trouble code:
- Secondary air switch valve fault: The valve responsible for regulating the flow of secondary air into the exhaust system may be damaged or blocked, resulting in the P0417 code.
- Electrical wiring problems: The wires connecting the secondary air switch valve to the PCM may be broken, corroded, or improperly connected, causing the system to not operate properly and cause an error message to appear.
- Incorrect functioning of the sensors: The sensors that monitor the secondary air system may be faulty, causing incorrect data to be sent to the PCM and causing the P0417 code to appear.
- PCM problems: Malfunctions in the engine control module (PCM) itself, which controls the operation of the secondary air system, can lead to the appearance of the P0417 code.
- Problems with the secondary air supply mechanism: Other secondary air system components, such as pumps or valves, may also be faulty, resulting in a P0417 code.
These are just a few possible reasons, and the exact cause of the error can only be determined after a thorough diagnosis.
What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0417?
Symptoms when trouble code P0417 is present may include the following:
- Ignition of the «Check Engine» indicator: One of the most common symptoms is the activation of the "Check Engine" light on the dashboard. This light indicates that there is a problem with the engine management system.
- Unstable engine operation: A malfunction of the secondary air supply system can lead to unstable engine operation, especially when idling or at low speeds.
- Power Loss: The vehicle may exhibit loss of power due to improper combustion of fuel due to insufficient secondary air entering the exhaust system.
- Increased fuel consumption: Improper operation of the secondary air system can result in increased fuel consumption because the engine may operate less efficiently.
- Possible increase in emissions of harmful substances: If secondary air is not supplied properly, it can lead to increased emissions of harmful substances in the exhaust gases.
- Vehicle shaking or shaking: Incorrect combustion of fuel may cause the vehicle to shake or shake when driving.
These are just some of the possible symptoms. It is important to note that symptoms may vary depending on the specific model and condition of the vehicle.
How to diagnose a fault code P0417?
To diagnose DTC P0417, the following steps are recommended:
- Reading error codes: Use a diagnostic scanner to read error codes from the engine management system. Verify that code P0417 is present and write down any additional error codes that may be displayed.
- Visual inspection: Inspect the secondary air system components, including the switch valve and connecting wires, for damage, corrosion, or breaks.
- Checking the electrical circuit: Use a multimeter to check the electrical circuit connecting the switch valve to the PCM. Make sure the wires are intact, free of corrosion, and connected correctly.
- Switching valve testing: Test the switch valve using a multimeter or other specialized equipment. Verify that the valve is functioning correctly and opening/closing as commanded by the PCM.
- Checking the sensors: Check the operation of the sensors associated with the secondary air system to ensure that they are working correctly and are not causing the P0417 code.
- Additional tests and data analysis: Conduct additional tests and data analysis, including real-time system monitoring, to more accurately determine the cause of the P0417 code.
After diagnostics, carry out the necessary repair work in accordance with the identified problems. If you do not have experience in diagnosing and repairing cars, it is better to contact qualified specialists.
Diagnostic errors
When diagnosing DTC P0417, the following errors may occur:
- Incomplete electrical circuit check: The error may occur if the electrical circuit connecting the switch valve to the PCM is not fully checked. It is important to ensure that all wires and connectors are in good working order.
- Insufficient diagnosis of the switch valve: Failure to perform sufficient tests and checks on the switch valve may lead to incorrect conclusions about its condition. You must ensure that the valve opens and closes correctly.
- Skip checking other system components: Sometimes the P0417 code can be caused not only by a faulty switch valve, but also by other problems in the secondary air supply system. Incorrect diagnosis may result in missing components such as these.
- Incorrect interpretation of data: Misunderstanding of the diagnostic data may lead to erroneous conclusions about the cause of the P0417 code.
- Ignoring additional error codes: Sometimes additional error codes can indicate problems with other vehicle systems that may be related to the P0417 code. Ignoring them may lead to incorrect diagnosis and repair.
It is important to conduct a thorough and comprehensive diagnosis to avoid these errors and pinpoint the cause of the P0417 trouble code.
How serious is the fault code? P0417?
Trouble code P0417, while not critical to driving safety, should still be taken seriously for several reasons:
- Environmental impact: The secondary air system is designed to reduce exhaust emissions, and if it malfunctions, it can lead to increased environmental pollution.
- Loss of power and efficiency: Improper operation of the secondary air system can result in loss of engine power and increased fuel consumption, which can affect vehicle performance and fuel economy.
- Impact on other systems: Incorrect operation of the secondary air supply system can affect the operation of other vehicle systems, such as the fuel injection system or the engine management system as a whole.
Although there is usually no immediate safety hazard, the P0417 trouble code should be taken seriously and diagnosis and repairs are recommended to avoid additional problems and ensure proper vehicle operation.
What repair will help eliminate the code? P0417?
Repairs to resolve DTC P0417 may include the following:
- Replacing the secondary air changeover valve: If the switch valve is faulty or blocked, it should be replaced with a new, working one.
- Checking and repairing electrical wiring: Check the electrical circuit connecting the switch valve to the PCM. If breaks, corrosion or other damage is found, repair or replace the associated wires.
- Checking and replacing sensors: Check the operation of sensors associated with the secondary air supply, such as pressure or temperature sensors. If necessary, replace faulty sensors.
- PCM check and service: Check the operation and condition of the PCM. In some cases, the PCM software may need to be reprogrammed or updated.
- Checking other system components: Check other components of the secondary air system, such as pumps or valves, to rule out other potential causes of the problem.
- Thorough diagnostics and repair: It is important to carry out thorough diagnostics and repairs in accordance with the identified problems. Repair measures may vary depending on the specific cause of the P0417 code.
It is always recommended that you contact qualified technicians or authorized service centers for diagnosis and repair to ensure that the problem is corrected correctly and effectively.
P0417 — Information for specific brands
Here are some explanations of the P0417 trouble code for specific car brands:
- BMW: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve "B" Circuit.
- Mercedes Benz: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve "B" Circuit.
- Volkswagen/Audi: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve "B" Circuit.
- Ford: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve "B" Circuit.
- Chevrolet/GMC: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve "B" Circuit.
- Toyota/Lexus: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve "B" Circuit.
These are just some of the possible interpretations of the P0417 code for various car brands. The exact interpretation and application of the error code may vary depending on the model and year of the specific vehicle.

