2014 Subaru Outback 3.6R Engine Runs Rough

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Any CELs?

No CEL. I first noticed the vibration on the freeway. With the car parked, slowly revved the engine and discovered there is no vibration under 2,500 rpm or above 2,500 rpm. However, when the A/C is on, there is always a slight vibration. Cleaned the MAF sensor although it looked clean already. Air filter is new. Engine mounts appear to be OK. The car has only been doing this for a few months. Thanks for your input.

Can't hurt to replace the spark plugs.

Update. Local shop said it could be engine/trans mounts. They checked and mounts are ok. They now say it's the torque converter. We are still covered by the factory powertrain warranty so I'm off to the dealer tomorrow. Not looking forward to that.

A TC that resonates at 2.5k? Interesting. Keep in touch.

OK so warranty has expired, my bad for not double checking purchase date. Dealer says it's not the torque converter anyway. However, they suggested we start throwing different services at it to see if something works. Like throttle body cleaning, spark plug replacement, fuel injector cleaning etc. Seems to me if it was something like that it would do it all the time. Any thoughts?

I agree with you. Is the resonance VEHICLE speed constant, or just motor rpm? If the former I'd look at a bad or dry axle joint...specifically the inner (DOJ). Happy Turkey.

If I understand your question, the vibration is present whether or not the vehicle is moving but only at 2,500 rpm. The frustrating thing is that there is no vibration below 2,500 or above 2,500. Almost seems like something is out of balance. I may also revisit the engine/trans mounts. Thanks.

I know of no sympathetic resonance at 2.5k, but have to admit I'm not that familiar with the 3.6's quirks. Good luck. Ern TSG/B

TheSubaruGuruBoston perhaps it would be best to have someone read the question a person has about there car to you before chiming in about something that you admitted you know nothing about. And how does one who calls themself a SubaruGuru no nothing about the 3.6R? Yeah, I called you out.

Did you ever find a solution to your vibration at 2500rpm? I have a 2014 3.6R outback with the same issue.

Iowa...just keep your aim on the deer, eh? Sheesh....

No solution. I still have the vibration issue and no one seems to know what's going on. It's no better, no worse.

2500rpm at speed only? May coincide with 65-70mph and point to a tire-wheel imbalance? If rough when stationary at 2.5k I'm still at a loss. Ern

Update: Changed spark plugs several months ago, no improvement. Local independent Subaru shop said I should switch to premium fuel, which I did. Have been using premium for several months, no improvement. It's no better, no worse. Frustrating!! I don't know if this is causing damage. I sure hope not.

Also, just to clarify, this is happening whether or not the car is moving. It is of course more noticeable when the car is stationary. Thanks!

Geez...how about a front idler pulley chattering at harmonic resonance if loose or worn?

Hmmm, interesting. I will look into that. Thanks!