Parts for your 2005 Subaru Impreza-Crank angle sensor

2005 Subaru Impreza crank-angle sensor — purpose, service tips, and when to replace

Yes, the 2005 Subaru Impreza is fitted with a crank-angle sensor (commonly called the crankshaft position sensor). This is confirmed by the Subaru Factory Service Manual for 2005MY Impreza (Engine Diagnostics, DTC P0335/P0336) and mainstream workshop references such as the Subaru Impreza 2002–2007 Haynes manual, which both specify the sensor’s presence, wiring, test values, and fault codes. On EJ-series engines used in 2005 Imprezas (2.0 and 2.5 litre variants), the sensor mounts at the rear of the engine above the bellhousing, reading a trigger pattern on the flywheel/flexplate to report crank position and speed to the ECU.

The crank-angle sensor is the ECU’s primary timing reference. It tells the computer exactly where the crank is in its rotation and how fast it’s spinning, so it can fire the coils and injectors at the right moment. If it goes out of whack, the ECU loses its place and you can end up with hard starting, random stalling, or a dead-no-start under the bonnet. On a healthy 2005 Impreza, the sensor’s signal syncs with the cam sensor(s) to keep ignition timing crisp, fuel delivery tidy, and emissions in check — whether it’s an around-town run or a squirt up the motorway.

It’s not a scheduled service item, so most owners won’t touch it unless symptoms or a fault code pop up. That said, a quick look whenever the car’s in for a service is smart: check the connector for corrosion, make sure the harness isn’t rubbing on the bellhousing or turbo plumbing (WRX), and wipe away any oil mist or debris. If replacement is needed, it’s a straightforward job with basic spanners: disconnect the battery, gain access (intercooler off on many turbo models), remove the single retaining bolt, gently twist the sensor to free the O-ring, and swap it over. Lightly oil the new O-ring, seat it cleanly, refit the bolt snug (don’t overdo it), reconnect, clear codes, and verify a clean crank signal and stable idle. Most workshops will also check for stored DTCs like P0335/P0336 and road-test to confirm no heat-soak issues once it’s hot. Genuine or reputable OEM-equivalent sensors tend to give the best long-term reliability for Kiwi and Aussie conditions.

• Typical signs of trouble: intermittent no-start, sudden stall at idle, rough crank/long crank, tachometer dropouts, and Check Engine Light with P0335/P0336.
• Good practice: keep the connector clean and clipped, inspect the loom routing, and address oil leaks that can contaminate the sensor area.

FAQs

Where is the crank-angle sensor on a 2005 Subaru Impreza?
It sits at the back of the engine, above the bellhousing, roughly under the intercooler on turbo models. You’ll see a small sensor held in with one bolt and a two-wire plug. Access on naturally aspirated cars is usually simpler, on WRX models, pulling the intercooler often makes life easier.

What fault codes or symptoms point to a bad crank-angle sensor?
Common codes are P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit) and P0336 (Range/Performance). Drivers might notice long cranking, cutting out when hot, or no-start after a heat soak. The tach can flicker or drop to zero as the signal drops out.

Is it worth replacing preventatively?
It’s typically replaced on condition, not by kilometres. If the car is showing intermittent crank signals, stored codes, or the connector/loom is damaged, replacing it sooner rather than later can save a tow. The job is usually under an hour for an experienced tech.