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2010-2012 SUBARU LEGACY

3.6L H6AWDCVTgas
50 active safety recalls on this vehicle — view recalls
Repairs0Labor504Torque3914Fluid9DTC900Battery0Maintenance0Recalls50
P3623critical severityPowertrain

Cylinder Deactivation Lifter Stuck Activated

on 2010-2012 Subaru Legacy 3.6L H6 · AWD

What this code means

A cylinder deactivation lifter is mechanically stuck in the deactivated (collapsed) position. The affected cylinder is not firing.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Engine misfire
  • Rough idle and vibration
  • Reduced power
  • Exhaust smell of unburned fuel
  • Catalytic converter damage risk

Common causes

  • Collapsed lifter mechanism
  • Oil sludge jamming lifter
  • Lifter roller bearing failure
  • Oil pressure loss to lifter
  • Excessive wear on lifter body

Diagnostic steps

  1. Identify which cylinder is deactivated permanently
  2. Check oil pressure at affected lifter
  3. Perform compression test on that cylinder
  4. Check for oil sludge
  5. Inspect lifter via valve cover removal if accessible

Repair notes

Replace collapsed deactivation lifter. This requires camshaft and lifter removal. Inspect cam lobe for damage. Full engine oil flush recommended.

Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle

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