Parts for your 2008 Subaru Exiga-Camshaft sensor

2008 Subaru Exiga camshaft sensor — what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2008 Subaru Exiga is fitted with camshaft position sensor(s). Technical sources that confirm this include the Subaru Exiga (YA) Workshop Manual (Engine Diagnostics, ME(DIAG) section) which details the Camshaft Position Sensor (CMPS) operation and testing, Subaru diagnostic trouble code listings for this model that include P0340/P0345 (camshaft position sensor circuit faults), and Subaru wiring diagrams on the factory technical portal that show the CMPS signal lines feeding the ECM. On EJ-series DOHC engines used in the Exiga, there’s typically one sensor per bank.

The camshaft sensor tells the engine computer exactly where the cam(s) are in their rotation. That lets the ECM fire the injectors sequentially, time the spark precisely, and command AVCS (Subaru’s variable cam timing) so the Exiga starts cleanly, pulls smoothly, and sips fuel rather than guzzling it. If the sensor goes on the fritz, you can cop a check engine light, longer cranking, rough idle, flat spots, or limp-home behaviour — and you’ll often see codes like P0340 or P0345 on a scan tool.

It’s not a scheduled replacement item, but it’s smart to give it a look during regular servicing:

• Inspect the sensor body and connector for oil wicking, heat damage, or green crusty terminals.
• Check the harness where it runs across the rocker covers — chafe and brittle insulation are common with age and heat.
• If there’s oil leaking from the cam cover, fix that first, oil contamination can upset the signal.

Replacing one is usually straightforward: disconnect the battery, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, twist the sensor out, lightly oil the new O-ring, refit, and tighten to the spec in the workshop manual. Clear codes, then road test and confirm cam/crank synchronisation data looks tidy. Use a quality OEM or reputable aftermarket sensor — the cheapies can be false economy.

Handy tips before condemning the sensor:

• If correlation codes persist after replacement, check the crank sensor, timing belt condition and alignment, and the cam trigger wheels. A tired belt that’s jumped a tooth will mimic a bad cam sensor every day of the week.
• Poor grounds or low battery voltage can also throw cam sensor codes — verify the basics.

Technical references (no external links provided):

• Subaru Exiga (YA) Workshop Manual — Engine Diagnostics (ME(DIAG)): Camshaft Position Sensor description, waveform and tests
• Subaru DTC list for 2008 Exiga: P0340/P0345 camshaft position sensor circuit faults
• Subaru factory wiring diagrams (YA Exiga): CMPS signal and power/earth routing to ECM

Does the 2008 Subaru Exiga have a camshaft sensor?

Yes. The EJ-series DOHC engines in the Exiga use camshaft position sensor(s) — commonly one on each bank — to manage sequential injection and AVCS. Your exact count depends on the engine variant, a VIN-based parts lookup or workshop manual will confirm.

What are the symptoms of a failing camshaft sensor on an Exiga?

Typical signs are a check engine light, long cranking or hard starting, rough idle, flat acceleration, and poorer fuel economy. Scan tools often show P0340 or P0345. Always inspect wiring and the timing belt before blaming the sensor outright.

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2008 Exiga?

On EJ DOHC engines it’s mounted at the front of the cylinder head near the cam sprocket. You’ll usually find one per bank, accessible from the top with the engine cover off. Look for a small sensor with a single retaining bolt and a two- or three-pin connector.