Parts for your 2000 Subaru Legacy-Camshaft sensor

2000 Subaru Legacy camshaft sensor — what it does and when to replace it

Based on the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2000 Legacy/Outback (engine diagnostics section), Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) procedures, and Subaru OBD‑II references for DTCs P0340/P0341, the 2000 Subaru Legacy is fitted with, and actively uses, a camshaft position sensor (CMP). Subaru parts catalogues for this model year also list a dedicated camshaft sensor for EJ-series engines, confirming its relevance.

On the 2000 Subaru Legacy, the camshaft sensor tells the engine control unit exactly where the camshaft is in its rotation. Paired with the crank sensor, it lets the ECU fire injectors and spark at the right moment, manage cold starts cleanly, and keep emissions in check. Without a clean cam signal, the Legacy can crank longer before starting, run a bit rough, or pop a check‑engine light.

Location-wise, it’s mounted on the left‑hand cylinder head area near the timing belt cover. It’s a simple bolt‑in sensor that reads a trigger on the cam. There’s no scheduled replacement interval in Subaru’s servicing, but it’s smart to inspect it when doing timing belt work or chasing misfire/starting issues. Many owners treat it as a “replace on fault” item rather than preventative, because genuine sensors tend to last a long time if the wiring stays healthy.

Typical signs it’s on the way out include:

• Hard or extended cranking, especially when warm
• Intermittent misfire or rough idle
• Poor fuel economy and a lit MIL with codes like P0340/P0341

Replacement is a straightforward driveway job for a confident DIYer. Disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor connector, remove the retaining bolt, and work the sensor out gently to avoid damaging the O‑ring. Lightly oil a new O‑ring, seat the new sensor squarely, and torque the bolt to the Subaru spec. Always check the harness for brittle insulation or oil contamination under the bonnet, and route the lead exactly as from factory so it doesn’t chafe. If diagnosing before replacing, follow the FSM test steps with a multimeter or oscilloscope rather than guessing—faulty wiring or a poor ground can mimic a bad sensor.

Quality matters here. A genuine or reputable OEM-equivalent camshaft sensor tends to behave better across hot/cold Kiwi and Aussie conditions, keeping the Legacy starting first turn and running sweet for many more kilometres.

Popular questions about the 2000 Subaru Legacy camshaft sensor

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2000 Subaru Legacy?
It’s on the left-hand (driver’s side for RHD) cylinder head area near the front, close to the timing belt cover. Access usually involves removing the intake snorkel or airbox ducting for a clear shot at the retaining bolt and connector.

Can the camshaft sensor be cleaned or should it be replaced?
If it’s just lightly dusty, a quick wipe won’t hurt, but internal electronic faults won’t be fixed by cleaning. If codes or symptoms persist after checking wiring and connectors, replacement is the reliable fix.

Is it safe to drive with a failing camshaft sensor?
It may run, but behaviour can be unpredictable—hard starting, stalling, or poor performance. For safety and to protect the engine and catalytic converter, it’s best to sort it sooner rather than later.