Parts for your 2013 Subaru Tribeca-Camshaft sensor

Camshaft position sensor for the 2013 Subaru Tribeca

Based on Subaru technical sources, the 2013 Subaru Tribeca (EZ36 3.6‑litre H6) is fitted with camshaft position sensors. The Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) 2013 Tribeca Service Manual and wiring diagrams identify two camshaft position sensors (one per cylinder bank). Subaru’s parts catalogue (FAST) also lists camshaft position sensor assemblies for the 2013 Tribeca, and the factory diagnostic information includes related OBD‑II trouble codes such as P0340 and P0345 for camshaft position sensor circuits. These sources confirm the camshaft sensor is relevant and used on this model.

On the 2013 Tribeca, the camshaft position sensor tells the engine control module exactly where each cam is in its rotation. That timing info lets the ECU run true sequential fuel injection and ignition, manage AVCS (Subaru’s variable valve timing), and keep cold starts clean and quick. When the signal is spot on, owners get smooth idle, crisp throttle response, decent economy, and lower emissions.

When a sensor or its wiring goes crook, the vehicle may log a Check Engine Light and codes like P0340/P0345. Other tell‑tales can include:

• Hard starting or stalling at idle
• Flat spots, rough running, or poor fuel economy
• Reduced power with the ECU dropping into a safe strategy

There’s no scheduled replacement interval for the camshaft sensors, they’re generally “fit and forget”. As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to keep engine oil fresh (dirty oil can upset AVCS behaviour), and give the sensor connectors and harness a quick visual once‑over for oil ingress, brittle conduit, or loose pins.

If replacement is needed, the job is straightforward for a competent DIYer or technician:

1. Let the engine cool and disconnect the battery negative.
2. Remove the engine cover. Locate the sensor on the end of each cylinder head.
3. Unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, and gently twist the sensor free (it’s sealed with an O‑ring).
4. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the new sensor, refit the bolt, and reconnect the plug.
5. Clear fault codes and confirm live data looks healthy on a scan tool.

Use genuine or high‑quality aftermarket sensors to avoid intermittent faults. If codes return, check the harness for continuity and the crank sensor signal, then verify cam/crank correlation with a scope—especially if there’s been recent timing or AVCS work.

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2013 Subaru Tribeca?

The EZ36 engine uses two camshaft position sensors, one on each cylinder head. They’re mounted near the ends of the camshafts and are accessible from the top once the engine cover is off. Each sensor reads a trigger on its respective cam to report precise position to the ECU.

Can it be driven with a bad camshaft sensor?

It might start and run, but the ECU can drop into a fallback strategy with rough running, poor economy, and a higher risk of stalling. Driving for long can stress the catalytic converters if misfires occur. It’s best to diagnose and repair promptly.

Do both camshaft sensors need replacing together?

Not necessarily. Replace the faulty unit after proper diagnosis. That said, on higher‑kilometre vehicles, some owners choose to replace both at once to avoid a second visit. Always inspect wiring and connectors and use quality parts.