OBD-II code · Powertrain (manufacturer / generic)
P3481 Cylinder 10 Deactivation
The engine control module has detected a fault in the cylinder 10 deactivation system. Found on V10/V12 engines — cylinder 10 cannot reliably switch state.
Is it safe to drive with P3481?
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
- P3473Cylinder 9 Deactivation
- P3489Cylinder 11 Deactivation
- P3496Cylinder 12 Deactivation
- P3478Cylinder Deactivation Oil Pressure Switch Bank 2 Performance
- P3479Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid Bank 1 Control Circuit Open
- P3480Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid Bank 2 Control Circuit Open
- P3482Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid Bank 1 Control Circuit Low
- P3483Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid Bank 1 Control Circuit High
- P3484Cylinder Deactivation Solenoid Bank 2 Control Circuit Low
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.