Parts for your 2011 Subaru Outback-Crank angle sensor

2011 Subaru Outback crank-angle-sensor

Referencing the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the BR/BM Outback & Legacy (2010–2014) under Engine Control System, the 2011 Subaru Outback is fitted with a crankshaft position sensor—commonly called a crank angle sensor. The manual details diagnostics for DTCs P0335–P0339 specific to this sensor, and Subaru’s parts catalogue for the 2011 Outback (BR platform) lists a crankshaft position sensor as a serviceable item. Technical access via Subaru’s TechInfo (STIS) confirms it as part of the engine management system, so it’s absolutely relevant and used on this vehicle.

On the 2011 Outback, the crank angle sensor keeps the engine management happy by reporting crankshaft speed and exact position to the ECU. That info is the backbone for spark timing, fuel injection sequencing, variable valve timing coordination and misfire detection. If it drops out, the ECU loses sync and the engine can stall or refuse to start, so it’s a small part with a big job.

It isn’t a routine maintenance item in Aussie or Kiwi service schedules, but a bit of preventive care goes a long way. During regular servicing, a quick look at the sensor connector and harness routing under the bonnet is worth it—check for brittle insulation, oil contamination at the plug, and chafing near the front of the engine. If the car’s throwing a Check Engine Light with codes like P0335–P0339, struggling to start, randomly stalling at the lights, or showing a dead tach during crank, the crank angle sensor is high on the suspect list.

Replacement is typically straightforward with basic hand tools. On most 2.5‑litre models it’s mounted at the front of the engine near the crank pulley, on the 3.6R it sits toward the rear near the bellhousing. Disconnect the battery, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, and ease the sensor out. A light smear of fresh engine oil on the O‑ring helps the new one seat cleanly. Stick with a quality OEM‑spec sensor and refit to factory torque—no need to force it or shim it, as the air gap is set by design. Generally there’s no programming required, clear any stored codes, start the car, and take it for a short drive so the ECU can re‑establish clean signals.

Most genuine sensors last many years and well over 200,000 kilometres, so the advice is simple: don’t replace it on a whim, but do act quickly if the symptoms or fault codes point its way.

• Common symptoms: no‑start, intermittent stalling, long crank, rough idle, poor fuel economy, CEL with P0335–P0339.
• Quick checks: wiring integrity, clean connector, no oil wicking into the plug, metal debris on the sensor tip.

Popular questions

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2011 Subaru Outback?

On most 2.5‑litre models, it’s mounted at the front of the engine, near the crank pulley/oil pump area. On the 3.6R six‑cylinder, it’s located toward the rear of the engine close to the bellhousing. Access is under the bonnet with basic hand tools, visibility can be tight, so a small torch helps.

What are the signs of a failing crank angle sensor on a 2011 Outback?

Tell‑tales include a Check Engine Light with codes P0335–P0339, extended cranking or no‑start when hot, random stalling, sudden loss of tach signal, and rough running. Because the ECU relies on this signal for spark and fuel timing, any dropouts can feel like the engine just “cuts” without warning.

Does a new crank angle sensor need programming on this model?

No. The 2011 Outback’s crank angle sensor is a plug‑and‑play part. Fit the new sensor, reconnect the battery, clear stored fault codes, and road‑test. The ECU learns the clean signal automatically—no special relearn or coding required.