P3418 – BMW DTC

BMW DTC P3418 – Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Performance

DTC P3418 meaning on BMW

DTC P3418 on a BMW indicates an issue with the Cylinder 3 Deactivation/Intake Valve Control Circuit Performance. This fault code is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the performance of the circuit controlling the deactivation or activation of the intake valve for cylinder 3 is outside the expected parameters.

BMW DTC P3418 symptoms

Symptoms of DTC P3418 on a BMW may include:

  • Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated on the dashboard
  • Engine running rough or misfiring
  • Reduced engine performance or power
  • In some cases, the vehicle may go into a reduced power mode

BMW DTC P3418 causes

The common causes of DTC P3418 on a BMW include:

  • Faulty intake valve control solenoid
  • Wiring issues in the intake valve control circuit
  • ECM software or hardware issues
  • Mechanical problems with the intake valve itself

BMW DTC P3418 seriousness

DTC P3418 should not be ignored as it can lead to engine performance issues and potential damage if left unresolved. Driving with this fault present may result in reduced fuel efficiency and could potentially cause further damage to engine components.

How to diagnose DTC P3418 on BMW

To diagnose DTC P3418 on a BMW, a mechanic would typically perform the following steps:

  1. Use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the fault code and any related freeze frame data
  2. Inspect the intake valve control solenoid and wiring for any visible damage or corrosion
  3. Check the intake valve operation and perform a cylinder leakage test if necessary
  4. Test the intake valve control circuit for proper voltage and continuity
  5. Verify the ECM software is up to date and functioning correctly

How to fix DTC P3418 on BMW

Fixing DTC P3418 on a BMW may involve the following steps:

  1. Replace the faulty intake valve control solenoid if found to be defective
  2. Repair any damaged wiring in the intake valve control circuit
  3. Address any mechanical issues with the intake valve itself
  4. Update the ECM software to the latest version if necessary
  5. Clear the fault code and perform a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved

How to erase DTC P3418 on BMW

To erase DTC P3418 on a BMW, the fault code can be cleared using a diagnostic scanner. After the necessary repairs have been made to address the underlying issue, the fault code can be cleared from the ECM’s memory. It is important to ensure that the repair has been successful before clearing the fault code to prevent it from reoccurring.

Recommended tools & DTC Scanners for BMW

Best Diagnostic App for modern BMWs: BimmerLink

Recommended Bluetooth adapter for Bimmerlink: OBDLink CX

Cable adapter for Bimmerlink: Enet Cable USB Type C

For older BMWs we recommend: Autel AutoLink AL319 (2024 version)

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.