Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Crank angle sensor

2013 Subaru Forester crank angle sensor (CKP): purpose, care, and replacement

Technical sources confirm a crank-angle sensor is fitted to the 2013 Subaru Forester. Subaru’s Factory Service Manual for the SH-series (2013MY) lists DTCs P0335–P0339 for the crankshaft position sensor circuit, the Subaru genuine parts catalogue specifies a CKP sensor for both EJ25 petrol and EE20 diesel engines, and major application guides from NGK/NTK and Bosch list a crank sensor for this model. In Subaru literature it’s usually called the crankshaft position sensor (CKP), but “crank angle sensor” is commonly used and means the same thing here.

On a 2013 Forester, the crank-angle sensor is the ECU’s timekeeper. It tracks crankshaft speed and exact position so the computer can trigger spark and inject fuel at the right moment, manage variable valve timing, and verify misfire and sync with the cam sensors. If the signal drops out, the engine may crank but won’t fire, or it may cut out intermittently.

Location-wise, on EJ25 petrol models it’s mounted at the front-top of the engine near the timing cover (often easiest to reach from under the bonnet, sometimes after moving the alternator or intake ducting). On the EE20 diesel it reads from the flywheel/flexplate area near the bellhousing.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it does benefit from a quick look during routine servicing: check the connector for corrosion, make sure the loom isn’t rubbing, and keep the sensor nose free of heavy metal debris or oil sludge. If faults crop up (hard starting, random stalling, rough idle, dead tach, or an engine light with P0335–P0339), test before replacing.

• Common symptoms of a failing CKP: hard/no start when hot, sudden cut-out, long crank, misfire feel at cruise, MIL on with related codes.
• Quick service tips: verify battery and grounds, inspect wiring at the sensor and along the loom, and confirm cam sensor signals to rule out a sync issue.

Replacement is straightforward: disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the single retaining bolt, and pull the sensor straight out. Lightly oil the new O-ring, seat the sensor fully, and tighten the bolt to the factory spec. Clear codes and road-test. No special relearn is typically needed on these Subarus. Using an OE or quality-brand sensor is recommended, cheap units can cause intermittent faults that are maddening to chase.

Typical costs in AU/NZ are modest: the part is commonly priced in the low hundreds, with 0.5–1.0 hour labour depending on access.

• Does a 2013 Subaru Forester have a crank angle sensor?
  Yes. Subaru calls it the crankshaft position sensor (CKP), and it’s essential for spark and fuel timing. The Factory Service Manual and parts catalogue both list it for 2013 Forester engines.
• Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2013 Forester?
  On EJ25 petrol models it’s at the front-top of the engine near the timing cover (often just behind or below the alternator). On the EE20 diesel it’s mounted by the bellhousing reading the flywheel.
• Should it be replaced as preventative maintenance?
  Not usually. It isn’t a wear item, so replace it when there are symptoms or fault codes. During regular servicing, inspect the connector and wiring and keep the area clean and dry.