Parts for your 2007 Subaru Outback-Camshaft sensor

2007 Subaru Outback camshaft sensor — what it does and when to replace it

Based on the Subaru MY2007 Legacy/Outback workshop manual (engine diagnostics and wiring), plus OEM parts catalogues and common service databases used by technicians, every 2007 Subaru Outback is fitted with camshaft position sensor(s). The 2.5i (EJ253 SOHC) uses one sensor, the 2.5 XT turbo (EJ255 DOHC with AVCS) uses two, and the 3.0R H6 (EZ30) uses two as well. So yes — the camshaft sensor is absolutely relevant on this model year.

The camshaft sensor tells the ECU exactly where the cam(s) are in their rotation. That info lets the ECU fire the injectors sequentially, time the spark properly, and manage variable valve timing on AVCS-equipped engines. If the signal is missing or erratic, expect long cranking, rough idle, flat spots, poor fuel economy, and sometimes a no-start. The ECU often logs fault codes like P0340/P0341 (Bank 1) or P0345/P0349 (Bank 2) when things go pear-shaped.

It isn’t a scheduled replacement item, but it’s smart to give it some attention during bigger jobs. On the 2.5i, have a look when the timing belt and front covers are off, on the XT and H6, inspect both bank sensors whenever doing cam cover or timing work. Keep the connectors clean and the harness clipped away from heat. Fresh oil at the right spec also helps, because dirty oil can upset AVCS operation and throw cam/crank correlation codes that look like sensor faults.

• Typical symptoms: hard starting, misfires at idle, sudden stall after warm-up, poor fuel use, check engine light.
• Quick checks: scan for DTCs, view live cam/crank sync, wiggle-test the loom, and inspect for oil intrusion at the plug.
• Replacement tips: disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the single retaining bolt, and withdraw the sensor straight out. Lightly oil the new O-ring, seat it squarely, and tighten the bolt snugly (don’t overdo it). Clear codes and verify cam/crank sync on a test drive.

Locations vary slightly by engine: the 2.5i’s sensor is on the cylinder head near the timing area, the XT has one on each cylinder head for the intake cams, the H6 has one per bank. Confirm exact placement with the Subaru service manual or wiring diagram for the specific engine code.

Using a genuine or high-quality aftermarket sensor avoids intermittent dramas. If a code points to one bank on XT or H6 models, it’s fine to replace just that side — but always rule out wiring and connector issues first.

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2007 Subaru Outback?

On the 2.5i (EJ253), it’s mounted on the cylinder head near the timing area. On the 2.5 XT (EJ255), there’s one sensor on each cylinder head for the intake cams. The 3.0R H6 (EZ30) also has a sensor per bank. Access ranges from easy to fiddly depending on engine and what’s already off under the bonnet.

If you’re unsure which engine you have, check the build plate or your service book, placement is then straightforward with a quick visual compare to a workshop diagram.

What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor?

The common ones on this model are P0340/P0341 (Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Bank 1) and P0345/P0349 (Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Bank 2 on multi-bank engines). That said, cam/crank correlation codes can also be caused by wiring faults, stretched timing components, or AVCS oil flow issues, so it pays to verify live data and do basic electrical checks before fitting parts.

Should both cam sensors be replaced at once?

Not necessarily. If only one bank on an XT or H6 is acting up, replacing just that sensor is fine after confirming the wiring and connector are healthy. Some owners choose to replace both as preventative maintenance on high-kilometre cars, especially if access is easy during other work, but it isn’t mandatory.