Parts for your 2011 Subaru Legacy-Crank angle sensor

2011 Subaru Legacy crank-angle-sensor

Yes, the 2011 Subaru Legacy uses a crank-angle sensor (commonly called a crankshaft position sensor, or CKP). Technical sources confirm this: the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2011 Legacy/Outback includes diagnostics for DTC P0335 “Crankshaft Position Sensor ‘A’ Circuit”, and the Subaru electronic parts catalogue lists a crankshaft position sensor for both the EJ253 2.5-litre and EZ36 3.6-litre engines. Major workshop databases used across Australia and New Zealand show the same component and test procedures, so it’s definitely a relevant, fitted part on this model.

On a 2011 Subaru Legacy, the crank-angle sensor is the timing linchpin the engine computer relies on. Spinning with the crank, it reads a toothed reluctor and tells the ECU exactly where the pistons are and how fast they’re moving. That lets the ECU fire the coils and injectors at the right moment, stabilise idle, and keep fuel economy tidy. If the sensor signal drops out or goes wonky, you’ll often see the check engine light, hard starting, misfires, sudden stalling, or a dead no-start with the tach not budging while cranking.

There’s no regular “service interval” for the crank-angle sensor itself, but smart maintenance during scheduled servicing keeps it happy. Under the bonnet, heat, oil vapour and vibration are the usual enemies. A quick look over the wiring and connector, plus cleaning away built-up grime around the timing cover area, goes a long way. If faults pop up, scan for codes like P0335/P0336 and check live data for a steady engine speed signal while cranking.

• Replacement is straightforward: disconnect the battery, locate the sensor at the front of the engine near the crank/timing area (under or adjacent to the alternator on EJ253, forward area on EZ36), unplug it, remove the retaining bolt, and twist-pull the sensor out.
• Lightly lube the new O-ring, seat the new sensor squarely, and tighten the bolt to the factory torque spec (use the Subaru manual for the correct value).
• Inspect the connector for spread pins or corrosion and repair any damaged loom sections before refitting.
• Clear fault codes, then confirm clean restart, stable idle, and normal RPM reporting.
• Use genuine or OE-equivalent parts, cheap copies can have weak signal output and false triggers.

No special programming is usually required after fitting on the 2011 Legacy, but an idle relearn after battery disconnect can help. If the engine still plays up, check the cam sensor, timing components, and crank reluctor for damage.

Popular questions about the 2011 Subaru Legacy crank-angle-sensor

Where is the crank-angle sensor on a 2011 Subaru Legacy?
On EJ253 2.5-litre models it’s mounted at the front of the engine near the crank/timing area, typically below or beside the alternator bracket. On EZ36 3.6-litre models it’s also at the front timing area. Access is from the top with the intake snorkel and related covers out of the way.

Look for a small, single-bolt sensor with a two- or three-pin connector. If in doubt, follow the loom from the front timing cover area or consult the Subaru service manual location diagram.

What are the symptoms of a failing crank-angle sensor on a 2011 Legacy?
Common signs include intermittent no-start, sudden stalling, rough idle, misfires, a dead tach during cranking, and the check engine light with codes such as P0335/P0336. Heat soak failures can show up after a hot shutdown, then disappear when the sensor cools.

If these show up, test the sensor signal with a scan tool or scope and check the connector and wiring before replacing the sensor.

Does a new crank-angle sensor need programming on this model?
Generally, no. The 2011 Legacy recognises a good sensor signal without coding. After replacement, clear any stored fault codes and perform a brief idle relearn if the battery was disconnected.

Persistent issues after replacement usually point to wiring faults, timing problems, or a damaged reluctor wheel rather than a need for programming.