Drive with caution — fix soon.
This code means the engine computer detected an open (broken) circuit in the control wiring for the secondary air injection switching valve 'A', so the valve isn't getting its electrical signal. It usually points to broken or corroded wiring, a bad connector, or a faulty switching valve. It's a fairly common code and is typically fixable without major engine work.
$150 – $600
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Usually yes, since the switching valve mostly affects cold-start emissions, not everyday driveability. The car stays safe to drive, but it will likely fail an emissions test, so plan to have the wiring and valve checked.
Most repairs run between about $150 and $600. Repairing broken wiring or a connector is cheaper, while replacing the secondary air switching valve raises the cost.
It's not a safety emergency and rarely leaves you stranded, but it means part of your emissions system is offline. It should be fixed so the car passes emissions and burns cleaner on cold starts.
An 'open circuit' means the electrical path to the air switching valve 'A' is broken, so it isn't getting a signal. This usually points to broken wiring, a bad connector, or a failed valve rather than an engine problem.