Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Camshaft sensor

2016 Subaru Exiga camshaft sensor — what it does and how to look after it

Based on Subaru factory service information (STIS) for the 2016 Exiga/Exiga Crossover 7 with the FB-series 2.0-litre DOHC engine, and Subaru’s FAST parts catalogue listings for the Exiga (YA/YAM), this model is fitted with camshaft position sensor(s). Subaru’s AVCS (Active Valve Control System) relies on camshaft position feedback, and the service manuals detail related diagnostics (e.g., DTCs P0340/P0345) and testing procedures for the cam sensor, confirming its relevance on this vehicle.

On the 2016 Subaru Exiga, the camshaft sensor monitors the exact position and speed of the camshaft so the ECU can time fuel injection and spark properly, and command AVCS cam timing. That’s how it keeps cold starts clean, throttle response snappy, and fuel use tidy. If the signal goes missing or drifts, the ECU guesses its way through the cycle, which can mean hard starting, rough idle, flat spots, higher consumption, and a cheeky check-engine light.

As a service item, the cam sensor is “inspect and leave” rather than routine replacement. During regular servicing, it’s smart to visually check the sensor body and connector for oil seepage, brittle wiring or a loose plug, and make sure the harness isn’t rubbing on anything hot or sharp. Electrical gremlins are more common than outright sensor failure.

If replacement is needed, it’s a straightforward driveway job for most home mechanics:

• Disconnect the battery and let the engine cool.
• Locate the sensor on the cylinder head (the FB flat-four typically uses one per bank).
• Unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, and withdraw the sensor carefully.
• Lightly oil a new O-ring, refit the sensor, and tighten the bolt to the manufacturer’s spec.
• Reconnect the plug, clear any codes, and road-test.

Common symptoms pointing to a cam sensor issue include long crank when warm, intermittent stalling at idle, sluggish take-off, poor economy, and DTCs like P0340/P0341 or bank-specific variants. Because these faults can also be caused by wiring damage or timing issues, a proper scan and live-data check is worth its weight in gold before buying parts.

Use quality, OE-spec sensors and seals, keep oil changes on schedule to minimise varnish and sludge around the sensor nose, and the Exiga’s cam timing gear will stay happy for the long haul.

Popular questions

How many camshaft sensors does a 2016 Subaru Exiga have?
Most FB-series 2.0-litre Exiga engines run two camshaft position sensors, one for each cylinder head. Exact count can vary with engine code and market, so checking the VIN against the parts catalogue is the safest bet.

This dual-sensor setup gives the ECU precise phase information for AVCS control on each bank.

What fault codes suggest a camshaft sensor issue on this model?
Typical codes include P0340/P0341 (circuit/performance) and bank-specific variants like P0345. If these appear with extended cranking or rough running, the cam sensor or its wiring is high on the list.

Always inspect connectors and harness routing before replacing parts, as corrosion or a chafed wire can mimic a failed sensor.

Is it safe to drive with a dodgy camshaft sensor?
The car may still run, but starting, power and fuel economy can suffer, and it may drop into a limp mode. Continued driving risks stalling at awkward moments.

Best approach: scan it, confirm the fault, and sort the sensor or wiring promptly.