Parts for your 2007 Subaru Forester-Camshaft sensor

2007 Subaru Forester camshaft sensor: what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2007 Subaru Forester is fitted with a camshaft position sensor. Technical references that confirm this include the Subaru 2007MY Forester Factory Service Manual (Engine Diagnostics section), which covers CMP-related fault codes such as P0340/P0341 for non‑turbo EJ253 models and P0345/P0349 for turbo EJ255 AVCS models, and Subaru’s OEM parts catalogue (FAST), which lists a “Sensor Assy – Camshaft Position” for the 2007 Forester range. Non‑turbo models typically have one sensor, while turbo AVCS models have a sensor on each bank.

The camshaft sensor tells the engine control unit exactly where the cam(s) are in their rotation. That lets the ECU fire the injectors and coils at the right moment, manage variable valve timing on turbo AVCS engines, and sync cleanly with the crank sensor for smooth starts and strong drivability. If it drops out, the Forester can be slow to start, run rough, lose power, or in some cases not start at all. It’s a small part with big influence on how the EJ25 runs.

There’s no scheduled replacement for the cam sensor on a 2007 Forester, but it pays to keep an eye on it during routine servicing. A quick visual check under the bonnet for brittle wiring, loose connectors, or oil seepage around the sensor is worthwhile—rocker cover leaks can wick oil into the plug and upset the signal. If you’re chasing a check engine light with codes like P0340/P0341 (and P0345/P0349 on AVCS models), inspect the wiring first, then test or replace the sensor with quality OEM‑equivalent parts.

Replacement is straightforward on non‑turbo EJ253 engines—the sensor sits on the end of the cylinder head and is held by a small bolt. Disconnect the battery, unclip the connector, remove the bolt, and ease the sensor out. Lightly oil the O‑ring on the new unit, seat it squarely, and tighten the retaining bolt to factory spec. On Forester XT (turbo) models, access can be tighter and may involve removing the intercooler, many owners still knock it over in well under an hour.

After any replacement, clear fault codes and take the car for a short drive so the ECU can relearn. If correlation codes persist, consider broader causes—timing belt alignment, low battery voltage, dirty oil affecting AVCS operation on turbo models, or even a flaky crank sensor can all mimic cam sensor issues.

• Common symptoms: hard starting, rough idle, hesitation, stalling, poorer fuel economy, check engine light (P0340/P0341/P0345/P0349).
• Best practice: use OEM‑quality sensors, keep oil changes on schedule, and fix rocker cover leaks promptly.

Does a 2007 Subaru Forester have a camshaft sensor?

Yes. Non‑turbo EJ253 models use one camshaft position sensor, while turbo EJ255 AVCS models use one per bank. Location is on the end of the cylinder head(s), with a simple plug and a single retaining bolt.

What are the signs the camshaft sensor is failing on a 2007 Forester?

Expect longer cranking, rough idle, hesitation, intermittent stalling, and a check engine light. Scan tools typically show P0340/P0341 on non‑turbo and P0345/P0349 on AVCS turbo models. Wiring damage or oil in the connector can produce the same symptoms, so inspect those before buying parts.

Can it be driven with a bad camshaft sensor?

Sometimes, but it’s not wise. The engine may fall back to crude timing strategies, run poorly, or stall in traffic. Misfires risk catalytic converter damage. It’s safer to diagnose and repair promptly—often a quick fix if it’s just the sensor or a dodgy connector.