Parts for your 2015 Subaru Outback-Crank angle sensor

2015 Subaru Outback crank-angle-sensor

Technical sources confirm the 2015 Subaru Outback is fitted with a crank-angle-sensor, more commonly referred to by Subaru as the crankshaft position sensor (CKP). The 2015 Legacy/Outback Service Manual (Engine Diagnostics, DTC P0335–P0339) details monitoring and fault codes for this sensor, and Subaru’s parts catalogue lists a CKP for both the 2.5i (FB25) and 3.6R (EZ36) variants. Industry references also note “crank angle sensor” and “crankshaft position sensor” are interchangeable terms for the same device.

On this model, the crank-angle-sensor tracks the crankshaft’s exact position and speed so the engine control module can fire the spark plugs and inject fuel at precisely the right moment. It also supports variable valve timing, misfire detection, and the tachometer. Without a solid signal from this sensor, the Outback can be hard to start, run roughly, or cut out unexpectedly.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it’s smart to check the sensor’s wiring and connector whenever the bonnet is up for regular servicing—especially if there’s been an oil or coolant leak. Heat, vibration, and oil contamination are the usual culprits when issues crop up. Typical symptoms of a failing crank-angle-sensor include:

• Intermittent no-start or long cranking
• Stalling or sudden loss of power
• Rough idle and misfires
• Erratic or dead rev counter
• Check engine light with codes such as P0335–P0339

Replacement on a 2015 Outback is generally straightforward for a trained tech. The sensor is mounted to the engine block aligned to a crankshaft reluctor ring, access varies slightly by engine and whether work is done from above or underneath. Usual steps are: isolate the battery, unplug the connector, remove the small retaining bolt, ease out the sensor, lightly oil the O-ring on the new unit, install, and torque the bolt to the factory spec in the service manual. Clear any codes and confirm clean live data. Using a genuine or high-quality OE-equivalent sensor is recommended, cheap copies can cause weak or noisy signals and repeat faults.

If a scan shows crank-angle-sensor faults or the symptoms above are present, it’s best not to keep driving. A sudden stall in traffic isn’t worth the risk. A quick diagnostic and sensor swap can often have the Outback back to reliable, fuss-free motoring in under an hour.

Does the 2015 Subaru Outback have a crank-angle-sensor?

Yes. Subaru labels it the crankshaft position sensor (CKP). The 2015 Legacy/Outback Service Manual includes specific diagnostics (e.g., DTC P0335), and Subaru’s parts listings show a dedicated CKP for both 2.5i and 3.6R engines.

Where is the crank-angle-sensor on a 2015 Outback?

It’s mounted to the engine block so it can read a toothed reluctor on the crankshaft. Access differs slightly by engine and tooling, it’s typically reached from under the bonnet or from underneath the vehicle. A technician will reference the service manual diagrams to pinpoint the exact spot and safe access path.

What are the signs it’s failing, and can you keep driving?

Common signs include hard starting, random stalling, rough idle, misfires, an erratic tachometer, and a check engine light (often P0335–P0339). Continued driving isn’t recommended—an abrupt stall can be unsafe. Have it scanned and repaired promptly.