P2441: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve Stuck Closed (Bank 1)
Severity: medium
What it means: The engine computer sees the secondary air injection switching valve on bank 1 staying closed when it should open. That system pumps fresh air into the exhaust for a short time after a cold start to heat the catalytic converters.
Safe to drive? Usually drivable, but on some vehicles (like the 2010–2013 Lexus GX 460) it can trigger limp mode and turn off stability and traction control. Drive carefully and get it fixed.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light, often after a cold start
- Reduced power or limp mode on some vehicles
- 4LO, VSC or TRAC lights on the Lexus GX 460
- Often stored with P2440, P2442 or P2445
Likely causes, ranked
- Switching valve stuck from moisture or debrisShop
- Failed air injection pumpShop
- Wiring or relay faultShop
Vehicle-specific notes
- 2010–2013 Lexus GX 460: On ClubLexus, GX 460 owners said P2441 is covered along with the other air injection codes under the Lexus service campaign, which replaces the air pump filter and both switching valves (and the pump if damaged). Owners reported it was free with no year or mileage limit. Read the full answer · Source
What it means: The engine computer sees the secondary air injection switching valve on bank 1 staying closed when it should open. That system pumps fresh air into the exhaust for a short time after a cold start to heat the catalytic converters.
Severity: Medium. Safe to drive? Usually drivable, but on some vehicles (like the 2010–2013 Lexus GX 460) it can trigger limp mode and turn off stability and traction control. Drive carefully and get it fixed.
DIY or shop?
Usually a shop job. Check for manufacturer campaigns and warranty extensions first.
Before you replace parts
- Read all stored codes. P2441 often shows up with P2440, P2442 or P2445.
- Check your VIN for manufacturer campaigns and warranty extensions.
- Have the switching valves, pump and wiring tested.
- Clear the code only after a repair, then confirm it stays off.
Safety / mechanic note
Verify with a mechanic. Limp mode cuts power and stability control may be off. A code points to a circuit or system, not always a specific part.