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Parts for your 2011 Subaru Legacy-Camshaft sensor
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2011 Subaru Legacy camshaft sensor — what it does and when to replace it
Yes, a camshaft position sensor is used on the 2011 Subaru Legacy (called Liberty in Australia). Technical references — including the Subaru Legacy/Outback 2010–2012 Service Manual (BR/BM), Subaru’s Technical Information System (STIS), and standard OBD‑II diagnostics listing DTCs like P0340/P0341 — confirm cam sensors are fitted across the 2011 range. The 2.5i EJ25 typically runs a single sensor at the cylinder head, the turbo DOHC engines use two for AVCS timing, and the 3.6R H6 (EZ36) has one per bank.
The camshaft sensor’s job is to tell the ECU exactly where the cam(s) are in relation to the crank. That timing reference lets the car fire injectors in sequence, trigger spark accurately, and control Subaru’s Active Valve Control System (AVCS) on DOHC engines. Get that wrong and you’ll cop hard starting, rough idle, poor fuel economy and the odd stall. It’s a tiny part that keeps the whole show running sweet under the bonnet.
They’re not a routine service item, but age, heat and oil contamination can cause intermittent signals. Common tell‑tales include extended cranking, a flat spot off the line, and the check‑engine light with codes like P0340/P0341. On AVCS engines, the wrong cam feedback can even feel like lazy or inconsistent power delivery.
- Hard starting or stalling after warm‑up
- Rough idle and misfire feel
- Sluggish performance, poorer fuel use
- Check‑engine light: P0340/P0341 (cam sensor circuit/range)
Replacement is straightforward and suits a competent DIYer with a 10 mm spanner. The sensor sits on the cylinder head, some models have one per bank. Always confirm engine variant before ordering — 2.5i SOHC usually one sensor, turbo DOHC and 3.6R H6 have two. Use a quality OEM‑equivalent part, keep the O‑ring lightly oiled, and don’t overtighten the retaining bolt (small torque only). No special programming is normally required — clear codes and you’re away.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Unplug the sensor connector and remove the retaining bolt.
- Twist and pull the sensor out, inspect the O‑ring and bore.
- Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the sensor, and refit the bolt.
- Reconnect, clear fault codes, and road‑test.
Handy tip: keep oil changes on schedule. Clean, correct‑grade oil helps AVCS work properly and avoids chasing cam/crank correlation faults that look like a bad sensor. Also check wiring for rub‑through near the timing covers and don’t mix up the nearby AVCS solenoid connectors.
Popular questions about the 2011 Subaru Legacy camshaft sensor
Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2011 Legacy?
It’s mounted on the cylinder head. On the 2.5i SOHC there’s typically a single sensor, turbo DOHC and the 3.6R H6 use one per bank. Look near the front/top of the head under the plastic engine cover. Access is usually easy with basic hand tools.
What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor?
Common codes are P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit) and P0341 (Range/Performance). Intermittent issues can also throw cam/crank correlation faults. Always check the connector, wiring and oil condition before condemning the sensor.
Does a new camshaft sensor need programming?
No special programming or relearn is typically needed on the 2011 Legacy. Fit the new sensor, clear codes, and perform a short drive cycle. If a code returns, verify wiring integrity and, on AVCS engines, confirm timing and oil quality.
