Parts for your 2000 Subaru Forester-Crank angle sensor

2000 Subaru Forester Crank Angle Sensor (Crankshaft Position Sensor)

Yes — the 2000 Subaru Forester is fitted with a crank angle sensor (commonly called the crankshaft position sensor or CKP). This is confirmed by the Subaru Forester MY2000 factory service manual (Engine/Diagnostics section), Subaru’s parts catalog listings for EJ20/EJ25 engines (sensor, crankshaft position), and aftermarket technical manuals used in AU/NZ workshops. On the EJ-series engines, the sensor mounts at the top rear of the engine block near the bellhousing, reading a toothed reluctor to track crank position and engine speed.

On this Forester, the crank angle sensor is the ECU’s timekeeper. It tells the engine computer exactly where the crank is and how fast it’s spinning, so fuel injection and ignition timing can be spot on. Without it, the ECU can’t sync spark or fuel properly, which is why a failed sensor often causes no-starts, random stalling, or rough running. It also underpins misfire monitoring and helps the ECU manage idle and cold-start strategies.

As part of routine servicing, the sensor itself isn’t a scheduled replacement item, but it’s smart to give it some attention while the bonnet’s up. A quick visual check for cracked wiring, loose connectors, or oil contamination goes a long way on an older EJ. Make sure the harness clip is secure and the connector pins are clean and tight — a dab of dielectric grease can help keep moisture at bay, especially in coastal Aussie and Kiwi climates.

If replacement’s needed, it’s a straightforward DIY for most: disconnect the battery, locate the sensor at the top rear of the engine, unplug the connector, remove the single retaining bolt, and gently twist the sensor out. Clean the mounting face, lightly oil the O-ring on the new unit if supplied, and refit, tightening the bolt snugly to spec as per the service manual. Clear any fault codes (such as P0335/P0336) and verify a clean restart and stable idle. Always use a quality OE or reputable aftermarket sensor to avoid intermittent faults.

Common clues it’s on the way out include longer cranking when hot, intermittent stalling at lights, the tacho dropping to zero during a stumble, or an engine light pointing to crank signal errors. If those crop up, don’t delay — a failing CKP can leave the Forester stranded without warning.

• Watch for hot-start issues, random stalls, and fault codes P0335/P0336
• Inspect wiring and connector condition during regular services
• Replace with OE-quality parts and verify with a code scan and road test

Popular questions

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2000 Subaru Forester?

It sits at the top rear of the engine block near the bellhousing, pointing at a reluctor on the flywheel/flexplate. You’ll reach it from above with the airbox removed on many models. Look for a small, single-bolt sensor with a two-wire or three-wire connector, depending on the variant.

What are the symptoms of a failing crank angle sensor on this model?

Typical signs are intermittent no-start, stalling once warm, erratic tacho behaviour, rough running, and stored codes like P0335 or P0336. Because the ECU relies on this signal for spark and fuel sync, a total failure usually causes a crank-no-start.

Can you drive with a bad crank angle sensor?

Not reliably. It may run briefly with intermittent faults, but it can cut out without warning and leave the Forester stranded. Best to test, confirm with a scan, check the wiring, and replace the sensor promptly if it’s out of spec.