Failure mode detection at multi-stage valve lift

A method for detecting a Ventilhubfehlers may comprise, that a first and second intake air pressure is determined in a motor with Ansaugventilstoseln, which operate intake valves selectively in a first and second stroke mode. The first intake air pressure may correspond to an intake stroke of a first piston of the engine when the engine is commanded to operate in the first stroke mode, and the second intake air pressure may correspond to an intake stroke of the second piston of the engine when the engine is commanded in the first stroke mode to work. The method may further include that a difference between the first and second intake air pressure is determined and that a Ansaugventilstoselfehler is diagnosed when the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold.