P0413Generic code

P0413 Code: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve A Circuit Open

The P0413 code means the circuit of secondary air switching valve A is open, so the component gets no current when it is activated. Check the connector, the fuse and the wiring before you replace the valve. The engine runs normally, but the vehicle will not pass an emissions inspection.

Severity
Low
Can I keep driving?
Yes, no immediate risk
Estimated cost
$50 to $500
Difficulty
Medium
System
Emissions Control
Applies to
All OBD2 vehicles

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P0413 code means

The secondary air system pumps air into the exhaust for the first few minutes after a cold start so the catalytic converter warms up sooner. An electric pump blows the air, and a switching valve (a vacuum solenoid or an electric valve) opens the path to the manifold.

The computer watches the control circuit from its own driver transistor. The P0413 code points to an open circuit: the component gets no current when it is activated. Before you replace the component, check the fuse, the relay, the connector and the wiring, because they are the most common cause.

If the valve does not work, the air does not reach the exhaust and the catalytic converter takes longer to warm up. The engine runs the same, but the vehicle will not pass an emissions inspection. Moisture coming back from the exhaust corrodes the check valves and the passages.

Measure the resistance of the component at its connector. If it is infinite, the component is open inside. If it reads correctly, follow the control wire to the computer looking for a break, especially in the stretches near the exhaust and at intermediate connectors.

P0413 code symptoms

  • Check engine light on.
  • Usually no driving symptoms.
  • Air pump noise after a cold start is missing, or it is there when it should not be.

Likely causes of the P0413 code

  1. Connector unplugged or with a broken lock.
  2. Open coil. The resistance reads infinite.
  3. Cut wire. Check the rubbing points and the areas near the exhaust.
  4. Blown fuse, often from a short in the component itself.

How to diagnose the P0413 code step by step

  1. Activate the component with the scan tool and see whether it responds.
  2. Check the fuse and the relay.
  3. Measure the supply at the connector. You should see battery voltage with the key on or when it is activated.
  4. Measure the resistance of the component and compare it with the manual. Check the insulation to ground too.
  5. Check the control wire for continuity and for the absence of shorts.
  6. Start the engine cold and listen for the pump. It should run for a few seconds or minutes.
  7. Activate the valve with the scan tool and check that air passes.

How to fix the P0413 code

  • Repair the connector, the wiring or the supply.
  • Replace secondary air switching valve A if it does not respond with correct supply and control.
  • Clear the codes and verify that the monitor completes.

Technical reference data

  • 12 volt solenoid, with approximate resistance of 20 to 40 ohms.
  • These are approximate values, so check the manufacturer data for your engine.

Brand-specific notes

On many vehicles moisture destroys the valves and pumps of this system, so a corroded connector or a seized valve is often the real story behind a P0413 code.

P0413 on Toyota

Frequent on Toyota vehicles, where moisture destroys valves and pumps.

P0413 on Lexus

Frequent on Lexus vehicles, where moisture destroys valves and pumps.

P0413 on Volkswagen

Frequent on Volkswagen vehicles, where moisture destroys valves and pumps.

P0413 on BMW

Frequent on BMW vehicles, where moisture destroys valves and pumps.

P0413 on GM

Frequent on GM vehicles, where moisture destroys valves and pumps.

Frequently asked questions about P0413

Can I drive with a P0413 code?
Yes. It normally does not affect driving. Repair it before the emissions inspection.
What does secondary air switching valve A do?
The secondary air system injects air into the exhaust during the first minutes after a cold start to warm up the catalytic converter sooner. An electric pump blows the air, and a switching valve (a vacuum solenoid or an electric valve) opens the path to the manifold.
Do I always have to replace the part?
No. Check the fuses, relays, connectors and wiring first.
How much does it cost to fix P0413?
Roughly $50 to $500, depending on whether it is wiring or the valve itself.
What does the P0413 code mean?
It is a generic OBD2 code for an open circuit in secondary air switching valve A. The component does not get current when the computer activates it.
Will a P0413 code clear itself?
Only if the fault was a one-time glitch, such as a loose connector. A cut wire or an open coil will bring the code back.

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Questions about the P0413 code

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