Diagnostic Code P2442: Secondary Air Injection System Malfunction
Possible Causes of Code P2442
Code P2442 can be caused by one of the following:
- Faulty Vacuum Switching Valve (VSV)
- Open or shorted Vacuum Switching Valve (VSV) wiring harness
- Poor electrical connection in the Vacuum Switching Valve (VSV) circuit
- Faulty pressure sensor
- Faulty air switching valve
Possible Symptoms
- Illuminated engine light (Check Engine or engine warning light)
Meaning of Code P2442
The secondary air injection system is designed to accelerate catalyst activation during engine warm-up by pumping air to the exhaust manifold.
- Secondary air is supplied by the air pump and routed to the exhaust manifold via the air switching valve.
- The air switching valve is regulated by the Vacuum Switching Valve (VSV).
- The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the system’s operation using a pressure sensor located on the air switching valve.
- If abnormal pressure is detected in the secondary air passage, the ECM records code P2442.
How to Fix Code P2442?
- Check the possible causes listed above.
- Visually inspect the wiring harness and associated connectors.
- Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.
- Test the Vacuum Switching Valve (VSV) and air switching valve to ensure they are functioning properly.
- Check the pressure sensor and replace if necessary.
Conclusion
Code P2442 indicates a problem in the secondary air injection system, which may be caused by a failure of the vacuum switching valve, air switching valve, or pressure sensor. A thorough diagnosis is required to accurately identify the source of the problem and avoid unnecessary repairs.