P0410 Secondary Air Injection System Malfunction

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What does it mean?

This diagnostic code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, meaning it applies to vehicles equipped with OBD-II. Although generic, specific repair steps may vary by make/model.

The P0410 code refers to the emissions system. The AIR pump puts air into the exhaust to reduce emissions. It draws in outside air and pumps it through two one-way check valves into each exhaust row.

About 90% of the time this code is set, the one-way check valves are worn or faulty and allow water (which occurs naturally in the exhaust) to flow back into the pump. In any cold climate, especially in climates with higher humidity, this water can be more excessive. The water partially fills the AIR pump, which can then freeze. When the PCM commands the pump, if the pump is frozen, it cannot turn, thus overloading the circuit and “blowing” the fuse.

Other secondary air injection system fault codes include P0411, P0412, P0413, P0414, P0415, P0416, P0417, P0418, P0419, P041F, P044F, P0491, and P0492.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

MIL illumination obviously
Hesitation on acceleration
Noise from a faulty/stuck air pump

Causes

A P0410 code can mean that one or more of the following events have occurred:

Water may have accumulated in the AIR pump or vent solenoid and frozen or corroded the pump
Air pump fuse blown due to freezing

Possible Solutions

Note: There is a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) regarding this code for a number of GM models. The TSB calls for replacing the AIR pump and installing a new secondary injection pipe. The TSB can be found on this ACDelco website.

Additionally, if you simply replace the AIR pump, the problem may recur (and again). If you replace the pump, also clean the pipes and replace the one-way check valve. If it is a GM model to which the TSB applies, follow the instructions in the link above. In some cases, people have put a small hole in the rubber cover of the pump to allow water to drain out.

Also please note that this may be covered by the vehicle’s emissions warranty. If your vehicle is no longer covered by the bumper-to-bumper warranty, check if the emissions warranty is still valid!

Replace the AIR pump AND the one-way check valve
Test and clean the air pump AND test and replace the one-way air check valve
Replace the AIR pump inlet pipe
Replace the AIR pump fuse (located under the hood)

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