Parts for your 2016 Subaru Forester-Camshaft sensor

2016 Subaru Forester camshaft sensor — what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2016 Subaru Forester uses camshaft position sensors. Technical sources including the Subaru Service Manual (Engine Diagnostics for DTC P0340/P0345), Subaru’s Technical Information System, and Subaru genuine parts catalogues list camshaft position sensors for both the 2.5‑litre FB25 and the 2.0‑litre turbo FA20F engines. These DOHC engines run active valve timing (AVCS), which relies on accurate camshaft position inputs. Repair guides for the 2014–2020 Forester range confirm the same. Typically, there are two sensors fitted — one on each cylinder head.

The camshaft sensor’s job is to tell the engine control module exactly where the cam(s) are in relation to the crankshaft. That lets the ECU time fuel injection and spark properly and command the AVCS to optimise power, efficiency, and emissions. When it goes out of whack, the Forester may crank longer, run rough, hesitate, or drop into a reduced-power mode. The check engine light often logs codes like P0340, P0341, P0345, or P0346.

This isn’t a scheduled service item, but it’s smart to give it some attention during routine servicing. Check the wiring and plug for oil intrusion, brittle insulation, or corrosion, especially around the front/top of each cylinder head where heat can be harsh. If the rocker cover is weeping oil, fix that early — oil can wick into connectors and upset the signal.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer: disconnect the battery, pop off the engine cover, unplug the sensor, remove the small retaining bolt, and gently twist the sensor free. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the new sensor, refit the bolt, reconnect the plug, and clear any stored codes. Avoid over‑tightening the retaining bolt — follow factory torque specs. After replacement, a short drive cycle will let the ECU relearn.

Genuine or quality OE‑equivalent sensors are recommended to keep the AVCS happy. Many owners choose to replace only the failed side, on high‑kilometre vehicles, doing both banks can reduce future downtime. Typical parts pricing in AU/NZ sits roughly in the low hundreds per sensor, with 0.5–1.0 hour labour per side depending on access.

• Watch for MIL with cam sensor codes, hard starting, or surging under load.
• Keep connectors clean and locked, heat and oil are the usual culprits.
• If faults persist after replacement, inspect the crank sensor and timing/AVCS components.

Popular questions

How many camshaft sensors are on a 2016 Subaru Forester?
Most 2016 Forester engines use two camshaft position sensors — one on each cylinder head. That covers both the 2.5L FB25 and the 2.0L turbo FA20F. The ECU compares these cam signals to the crank sensor to manage sequential injection and AVCS.

Can it be driven with a bad camshaft sensor?
It might start and run, but it can stumble, lose power, and use more fuel. In some cases it may fail to start once hot. Continued driving risks stalling and can stress the catalytic converter with misfires. Best bet is to diagnose and fix promptly.

Where is the camshaft sensor located on the 2016 Forester?
Each sensor sits near the front/upper area of its cylinder head by the timing cover. Look for a small sensor held by a single bolt with a two‑pin or three‑pin connector. Access varies a bit between the FB25 and FA20F, but both are reachable from the top with basic tools.