Parts for your 2006 Subaru Forester-Crank angle sensor

2006 Subaru Forester crank-angle sensor: what it does and how to look after it

Based on the Subaru Factory Service Manual for MY2006 Forester (Engine Diagnostics, DTC P0335/P0336), the vehicle is fitted with a crank-angle sensor (commonly called the crankshaft position sensor). The Subaru Technical Information System wiring diagrams for the EJ253/EJ255 engines also show a dedicated CKP input to the ECU, and mainstream repair references such as the Haynes repair manual for 2003–2009 Subaru Forester/Legacy call out testing and replacement procedures for this sensor. So yes—this Forester uses a crank-angle sensor and the engine management relies on it.

On the 2006 Forester, the crank-angle sensor keeps the ECU in the loop on exactly where the crank is in its rotation and how fast it’s spinning. That live data lets the ECU fire the coils and injectors at the right moment, manage idle quality, and coordinate with the cam sensor for precise timing under all conditions. If the sensor signal drops out, the ECU can’t reliably time spark or fuel—hard starting, misfires, or a no-start under the bonnet can follow, often alongside a check engine light and codes like P0335 or P0336.

There’s no set replacement interval in normal servicing, the sensor is solid-state and generally runs for years. As part of routine maintenance, it’s worth a visual once-over: check the wiring loom and plug for chafing, heat damage, or oil contamination, and make sure the connector locks positively. The air gap is fixed by design—don’t shim or adjust it. If the car shows intermittent stalling, long crank times, or erratic tach behaviour, scan it for codes before throwing parts at it.

When replacement is needed, stick with a quality OEM or reputable aftermarket unit matched to the EJ25. Disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the retaining bolt, and ease the old sensor out. Lightly oil the O-ring on the new unit, seat it cleanly, route the harness exactly as the factory did, and tighten the bolt to the factory spec. Clear any stored faults, start the engine, and let the ECU relearn idle. A good indie workshop in Aus or NZ will typically allow around half an hour to an hour for the job.

Common symptoms of a crook crank-angle sensor on this model include:

• Hard starting, stalling, or a complete no-start when hot or cold
• Check engine light with P0335/P0336
• Rough running or sudden cut-out on the motorway

FAQs

How can someone tell the crank-angle sensor is failing on a 2006 Forester?
They’ll usually see a check engine light and feel hard starting, random stalling, or a dead crank/no-start. A scan tool often shows P0335 or P0336. Wiggling the harness with the engine idling can sometimes reproduce the fault if the issue is wiring rather than the sensor itself.

Is it safe to keep driving with a dodgy crank-angle sensor?
Not really. The car can stall without warning and may not restart, which isn’t ideal on a busy road. It’s best to diagnose promptly and replace the sensor or repair the wiring before it strands them.

Should they choose OEM or aftermarket for replacement?
OEM is the safe bet for signal quality and fit. Good aftermarket brands can work fine, but ultra-cheap units can cause intermittent faults. Expect the part to sit roughly in the $100–$250 AUD/NZD range, with 0.5–1.0 hour labour.