Parts for your 2015 Subaru Forester-Camshaft sensor

2015 Subaru Forester Camshaft Sensor

Yes, the 2015 Subaru Forester is fitted with camshaft position sensor(s). This is confirmed by Subaru’s factory service information for the SJ-series Forester, which details camshaft position (CMPS) inputs for AVCS (variable valve timing), and by the presence of OBD-II fault codes such as P0340/P0341/P0345 that are specific to camshaft sensor circuits on these engines. Subaru parts catalogues for the 2015 Forester likewise list camshaft sensors for the FB25/FB20 petrol engines and the FA20F turbo.

The camshaft sensor’s job is to tell the engine control module exactly where each cam is, so it can fire the injectors and coils at the right time and command precise valve timing. On a 2015 Forester 2.5-litre FB25 there are typically two sensors (one per bank). On the 2.0-litre turbo FA20F (XT), there are usually four sensors (one per cam) to support dual AVCS. They’re solid-state sensors, generally mounted at the front or rear of the cylinder heads, reading a trigger on the cam. Without a clean, accurate signal, the car can crank longer, run rough, lose power, or refuse to start.

Typical clues that a cam sensor is on the way out include an intermittent check engine light, sluggish performance, poor fuel economy, hard starting, or a stall at idle. Scan tools will often log P0340/P0341 for Bank 1 intake, or P0345/P0349 for Bank 2, which helps pinpoint the dodgy side. Because these sensors rely on clean oil and good wiring, contaminated oil or a leaking cam cover can also cause grief at the connector.

There’s no routine maintenance for a camshaft sensor, but as part of servicing a 2015 Forester it’s smart to keep engine oil fresh, check for oil seepage around the cam covers, and inspect the sensor plugs for corrosion or a loose fit. If one fails, replacement is straightforward:

• Disconnect the battery and remove the engine cover under the bonnet.
• Locate the sensor on the cylinder head, unplug the connector, and remove the retaining bolt.
• Swap in the new sensor with a fresh O-ring, seat it squarely, and tighten to spec (around 8–9 N·m is typical for Subaru CMPS bolts—confirm for your exact engine).
• Reconnect, clear any codes, and road test. Use quality OEM or reputable aftermarket parts for reliable timing signals.

A quick visual each service and timely oil changes will help the Forester’s cam sensors keep AVCS happy across many kilometres.

FAQs

How many camshaft sensors does a 2015 Subaru Forester have?
It depends on the engine. The 2.5L non-turbo FB25 generally runs two sensors (one per bank). The 2.0L turbo FA20F in the XT usually has four, one on each cam to support dual AVCS control.

Where are the camshaft sensors located on a 2015 Forester?
They’re mounted on the cylinder heads near the camshafts. On FB engines you’ll typically find one sensor per bank at the front or rear of the head. On the FA20F, expect one sensor on each cam, so there will be a sensor near each cam cover area.

Can you drive with a faulty camshaft sensor?
It may run, but it’s risky. A failing sensor can cause hard starts, limp performance, higher fuel use, and stalling. If the signal drops out entirely, the engine may not start. Best move is to scan, confirm the fault, and replace the sensor promptly.