Parts for your 2014 Subaru Impreza-Camshaft sensor

2014 Subaru Impreza camshaft sensor — is it fitted and what does it do?

Yes, the 2014 Subaru Impreza is fitted with camshaft position sensors. Technical references that confirm this include the Subaru factory service manual for 2014MY Impreza (H4 DOHC/FB20 sections covering DTCs P0340/P0341 Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit and the AVCS system) and the Subaru Genuine Parts catalogue for 2014MY, which lists camshaft position sensors for the FB20 2.0‑litre engine. These sources show the car uses cam sensors for sequential fuel injection and Subaru’s i‑AVCS cam timing control.

On the 2014 Impreza’s FB20, there are typically two camshaft position sensors, one on each cylinder head. Their job is to tell the ECU exactly where each intake cam is in real time, so it can fire the injectors spot‑on and adjust valve timing for smooth starts, solid mid‑range torque, and decent fuel economy. If a sensor goes out of whack, the ECU loses that precise sync, which can mean hard starting, rough idle, a noticeable drop in power, or a check engine light with codes like P0340 or P0341.

They’re not a regular service item, but they do benefit from good habits. Keeping engine oil clean and the right grade (0W‑20 for most FB20s) helps the AVCS system respond crisply, which keeps the cam and sensor signals stable. If the car does a lot of short trips around town, more frequent oil changes can be a smart move.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent home mechanic, though many owners will prefer a workshop. Basics include disconnecting the battery, removing the engine cover, unplugging the sensor connector, and undoing the single retaining bolt. The sensor pulls out with an O‑ring that should be replaced. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the sensor squarely, refit the bolt (tighten to the factory spec), plug it in, refit covers, and clear any fault codes. If a fresh sensor doesn’t fix it, the loom or connector may be the real culprit, so a scope check of cam/crank correlation is worthwhile.

Common symptoms of a failing cam sensor on a 2014 Impreza:

• Intermittent no‑start or long crank when cold
• Rough idle, misfire feel, or stalling at lights
• Sluggish throttle response and poorer fuel use
• Check engine light with cam sensor correlation codes

FAQs

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2014 Subaru Impreza?
It’s mounted on the cylinder heads under the bonnet—one per bank on the FB20. Look near the front of each head by the timing chain area. They’re small, black, and held with a single bolt, with a two‑pin or three‑pin plug.

Should the camshaft sensor be serviced or just replaced when faulty?
There’s no scheduled service. It’s replaced when it fails. Keeping oil fresh and the correct grade helps prevent issues related to cam timing control that can mimic a failing sensor.

Is it safe to drive with a dodgy camshaft sensor?
It may run, but it can stumble, use more fuel, and stall. Prolonged driving isn’t recommended—address it promptly to avoid being stranded and to protect the engine’s performance.