P0410 Code – What It Means And How To Fix It

The P0410 code is a generic DTC related to the emissions system. This code shows that there’s something wrong with the air levels registered by the O2 sensors.

However, there are ways to figure out what’s causing it and how to repair it. In this article, we discuss the various causes, symptoms and show you how to fix the code.

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Code P0410 Definition

P0410 – Secondary Air Injection System Malfunction

What Does the P0410 Code Mean?

The P0410 error code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) found an O2 sensor that’s detecting an abnormal increase of oxygen levels in the exhaust. This fault occurs when the air injection system is on during testing.

The air pump is responsible for injecting oxygen into the exhaust to reduce emissions. It could mean that the one-way check valves are worn out or failing, allowing water to enter back into the pump from the exhaust. If water infiltrates the system when it is cold outside, it can freeze. If it is frozen, the pump won’t be able to turn on when commanded, causing an overload to the system.

P0410 Trouble Code Symptoms

The most common symptom occurring from a code P0410 is a Check Engine Light on the dashboard. You might also have trouble starting the engine or notice performance issues.

Here is the list of possible symptoms:

Illuminated Check Engine Light
Trouble starting the engine/Inability to start
Poor acceleration
Decreased fuel efficiency
Noisy air injection system pump

Causes of the P0410 Code

There are only a few things that can create the P0410 code because it has to do with an imbalance of the air entering the exhaust system.

Here are a few causes that trigger the P0410 trouble code.

Worn one-way check valve
Blocked air injection system air intake
Defective O2 sensor isn’t responding to changes quick enough
Catalytic converter partially blocked because of exhaust backpressure increases
Bad contact of air injection pump relay
Blown air injection fuse

How Serious is the P0410 Code?

Medium – If the issue is only leading to a Check Engine Light, it’s unlikely to cause any major problems right now. However, the emissions system isn’t running as it should and you could fail an inspection test.

However, if the issue is severe, there could be trouble starting the vehicle. This situation is less likely and only happens in extreme cases.

What Repairs Can Fix the P0410 Code?

You must do a comprehensive diagnostic check before trying to repair the P0410 code. Otherwise, you could end up replacing parts that aren’t causing the issue. Here is a list of common fixes for this DTC.

Swap out the malfunctioning one-way check valve.
Clean or replace the broken air pump.
Replace the clogged air pump inlet hose.
Replace defective O2 sensors.
Swap out a blown air pump fuse located under the hood of the vehicle.

Common P0410 Diagnosis Mistakes

The most common mistake comes from attempting to replace parts without knowing what is causing the problem. Some of the solutions are low-cost, so it doesn’t make sense to replace major parts unless you know that it is causing the problem.

For example, you don’t want to replace the pump without checking for the proper airflow. You should also look closely at the air injection pump relay to see if there are burnt connections before you replace the pump.

Recommended Tools for Diagnosis

Diagnostic OBD Scan Tool
Multimeter
Basic Hand Tools
Auto Repair Manual
Electrical Contact Cleaner

How to Diagnose the P0410 Trouble Code

Here’s our comprehensive guide of how a professional mechanic would diagnose the P0410 DTC.

Scan the codes with an OBDII scanner.
Freeze-frame the data for further investigation.
Clear engine codes.
Retest air injection system.
Clean or replace any defective O2 sensor if other codes reveal trouble.
Monitor the O2 sensor. When the air injection pump is activated, the oxygen sensor should hit lower than 150 mV in the first three seconds.
Check power coming from the air injection relay if the pump doesn’t turn on.
Check resistance from the air injection pump.
See if the fuse is blown or there are any damaged wires.

Estimated Cost of Repair

Here are a few examples of the common repairs related to P0410. The prices include parts and labor but don’t include diagnostic costs.

Replaced Fuse – $10-$15
New Air Pump Installation – $550-$700
Replaced Air Pump Relay – $50-$100

Mechanics Tips about the P0410 Code

The trouble code P0410 occurs when the passive testing of the air injection pump is inconclusive or fails. Once this happens, the ECM will demand an active test. If the O2 sensor can’t register higher oxygen content in the exhaust in the first three seconds, the code will be triggered.

While there are only a few parts that can cause this trouble code, some of the problems can be easily fixed. Don’t overlook the obvious and move straight to advanced situations.