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P0079 Generic (SAE) Basic entry

Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid Circuit Low

Updated 2026-10-02 · Fuel, air metering & auxiliary emission controls

Severity
Medium
Typical repair cost
40 – 350 EUR
System
Powertrain

What it means

P0079 is stored when the engine control module measures a voltage in the Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid circuit that stays below the expected minimum. In practice this points to a short to ground, a damaged wire or a failed component rather than a mechanical problem.

This entry is compiled automatically from the standard definition and typical diagnostic practice for this type of fault. A detailed, reviewed article is in preparation.

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Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Rough or unstable idle
  • Hesitation or poor acceleration
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Possible limp mode with reduced power

Common causes

  1. Damaged, chafed or corroded wiring in the Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid circuit
  2. Corroded, loose or water-damaged connector terminals
  3. Failed Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid component (sensor, solenoid or actuator)
  4. Poor ground connection for the module or component
  5. Faulty control module driver (rare, confirm all else first)

How to diagnose

  1. Read freeze frame data and note when the code set (cold start, under load, after rain)
  2. Inspect the Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid connector for bent pins, corrosion and water; wiggle the harness with the engine running and watch live data
  3. Measure supply voltage and ground at the connector with the key on
  4. Check the signal wire for shorts to ground or battery and for continuity to the control module
  5. Test or substitute the Exhaust Valve Control Solenoid only after wiring and connectors are confirmed good
  6. Clear the code and complete a drive cycle to confirm the repair

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep driving with P0079?

Usually yes for a short time, but expect reduced performance or higher fuel use. Have it diagnosed within a few days.

Will clearing P0079 fix it?

No. Clearing only erases the stored code; it returns as soon as the monitor runs again unless the cause is repaired.

Related codes

P0027P0029P0080P0085

Nearby codes in this group