Parts for your 2014 Subaru Impreza-Crank angle sensor

2014 Subaru Impreza crank-angle sensor: what it does, why it matters, and how to look after it

For the 2014 Subaru Impreza (FB20 2.0-litre), a crank-angle sensor—more commonly called the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor—is absolutely fitted and relied upon by the engine management. This is confirmed by Subaru’s factory service information for the FB-series engines, which details diagnostics for CKP-related DTCs (P0335–P0339) and test procedures in the Engine/ECM diagnostics sections, as well as OEM parts catalogues that list the CKP sensor mounted at the front timing cover reading a toothed reluctor on the crank. In other words, it’s very much relevant to this model.

The crank-angle sensor is the engine’s timekeeper. It tracks crankshaft speed and exact position so the ECU can fire the injectors and ignition coils at the right moment. On the 2014 Impreza, it works hand-in-glove with the cam sensors to manage sequential injection, ignition timing, and stability at idle and across the rev range. If it goes out of whack, the ECU loses its place—causing hard starting, misfires, rough running, or a no-start with the MIL lit.

As part of regular servicing, this sensor isn’t a routine replacement item, but it’s smart to give it a once-over:

• Check the harness routing and connector for oil weep, corrosion, or chafing near the front timing cover.
• If the battery’s been leaking acid vapour or there’s been front-end work, confirm the plug is seated and the retaining clip is sound.
• Scan for stored or pending codes like P0335/P0336, even if the car seems fine—early detection saves headaches.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech and typically involves disconnecting the battery, removing the retaining bolt, and swapping the sensor with an OEM-spec unit. It’s good practice to lightly oil the O-ring, keep the tip clean, and observe correct torque. While there’s no complex programming, some cars benefit from an idle or ECU relearn after battery disconnect, a short drive cycle usually sorts it. Owners seeing intermittent stalling when warm, longer crank times, or tach bounce should have it diagnosed promptly—on these engines, a weak CKP signal can mimic fuel or ignition issues.

Quality matters here. A genuine or high-quality equivalent sensor keeps the Impreza starting crisply on cold mornings, idling smoothly in city traffic, and pulling cleanly across kilometres of open road—exactly what owners in Australia and New Zealand expect from their daily.

• Where is the crank-angle (crankshaft position) sensor on a 2014 Subaru Impreza?
  It’s mounted at the front of the engine on the timing cover, reading a reluctor on the crankshaft. Access is typically from above with the intake snorkel out of the way. The connector sits near the front of the engine bay—easy to reach for inspection during a service.
• What are common signs the crank-angle sensor is failing?
  Longer cranking, random stalling at idle, misfires, uneven idle when warm, or a no-start with the check engine light. Scanning often reveals DTCs like P0335 or P0336. Because symptoms can mimic coil or fuel faults, a proper scope or scan-based diagnosis is ideal.
• Does a new crank-angle sensor need programming?
  No special programming is normally required. After battery disconnect or sensor replacement, the ECU may perform a short relearn. A brief mixed-condition drive cycle usually restores stable idle and tip-in.