C3870 Maxwell Model A Diagnostic Trouble Code

C3870 Maxwell Model A code definition:
C3870 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Maxwell Model A.

C3870 Maxwell Model A is defined as Ignition Coil B Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction.This code is a generic trouble code, meaning it applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II tool, or vehicles made since 1996 up to present. Other symptoms that may indicate this problem are when the Check Engine Light illuminates and when there is a visible lack of engine power.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C3870 Maxwell Model A diagnostic trouble code may include:

The engine oil will exhibit dilution from the ECUs attempts to increase engine temperature. Some vehicles advance the fuel injection timing slightly after top center to afterburn a small amount of fuel to increase exhaust temperatures. Some of this fuel enters the crankcase. When the ECU determines the necessity to regenerate the DPF, the service life of the oil be shortened significantly
Faulty or damaged wiring
Hesitation upon acceleration
Diminished fuel efficiency

Possible Causes :

The Mass Airflow sensor is a hot wire that senses the volume of air entering the intake manifold. The computer uses this information to control fuel mixture.
Defective ECU strategies or components will prevent proper regeneration
Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem

Repair Processes :

Look at the plug wires to make sure they are not burnt or laying on the exhaust. Look for missing ground strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check for damage to the wiring harness connector. You might continue by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C3870 Maxwell Model A is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before C3870 Maxwell Model A.

Fortunately, C3870 Maxwell Model A is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.