OBD-II code · Powertrain (manufacturer / generic)
P3473 Cylinder 9 Deactivation
The engine control module has detected a fault in the cylinder 9 deactivation system. Found on V10/V12 engines with cylinder deactivation — cylinder 9 cannot reliably switch state.
Is it safe to drive with P3473?
Usually safe for short trips, but don’t ignore it: the underlying fault can get more expensive over time.
Common causes
- Most likelyDeactivation solenoid failed
- PossibleLifter stuck
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Hard
- DIY friendly
- Best left to a mechanic
- Typical labour
- 2–10 h
- Emissions test
- Likely to fail
- After the fix
- A drive cycle is needed before the light stays off
- Parts involved
- Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid, Lifter, Engine Wiring Harness
Related codes
- P3457Cylinder 7 Deactivation
- P3465Cylinder 8 Deactivation
- P3481Cylinder 10 Deactivation
- P3489Cylinder 11 Deactivation
- P3496Cylinder 12 Deactivation
- P3470Cylinder Deactivation Hydraulic Circuit Bank 2 Open
- P3471Cylinder Deactivation Hydraulic Circuit Bank 2 Performance
- P3472Cylinder Deactivation Hydraulic Circuit Bank 2 Low
- P3474Cylinder Deactivation Hydraulic Circuit Bank 2 High
- P3475Cylinder Deactivation Oil Pressure Switch Bank 1 Circuit
- P3476Cylinder Deactivation Oil Pressure Switch Bank 1 Performance
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.