Parts for your 2016 Subaru Impreza-Temperature sensors

2016 Subaru Impreza temperature sensors — what they do and how to look after them

Yes, temperature sensors are absolutely fitted and used on the 2016 Subaru Impreza. Subaru’s factory service information (STIS) and wiring diagrams for the FB20-powered 2016 Impreza identify several temperature-sensing devices: the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor for the ECU and radiator fan control, an Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor integrated with the MAF, an Ambient Air Temperature sensor for the HVAC/outside display, transmission fluid temperature sensing for CVT models, and A/C system thermistors. Their presence is also reflected in the OEM parts catalogue and in OBD-II diagnostics (e.g., ECT P0117/P0118, IAT P0112/P0113, ambient P0072/P0073, CVT temp P0711). That makes temperature sensors relevant to performance, economy, emissions, and comfort on this model.

On a 2016 Impreza, temperature sensors help the car think clearly. The ECT sensor tells the ECU how warm the engine is, guiding cold-start fuelling, ignition timing, idle speed, and when the radiator fans kick in. The IAT sensor lets the ECU adjust for hot or cold intake air so it can keep mixtures on point. The ambient sensor feeds the outside temp display and HVAC logic, while CVT fluid temperature is used to manage shift strategy and protect the transmission. When they read right, the car starts cleanly, runs efficiently, and keeps its cool on steep Kiwi and Aussie climbs.

These sensors are generally long-lived, so they’re not a scheduled replacement item. Instead, they’re checked as part of cooling-system and intake service. Smart workshop tips include:

• Scan-tool checks: cold engine ECT should roughly match IAT and outside temp, then rise smoothly as it warms. Any wild spikes or mismatches point to a sensor or wiring issue.
• Visuals: inspect connectors for corrosion, coolant wicking, or brittle looms near heat.
• Cooling service: when replacing coolant per Subaru’s schedule, consider testing the ECT, as it threads into coolant passages and can be affected by leaks or contamination.
• MAF/IAT care: clean the MAF (and built-in IAT) with proper MAF cleaner, not brake or carb spray.

If an ECT sensor is faulty, expect hard cold starts, rich running, poor economy, odd fan behaviour, or a stubborn temp gauge. Replacement involves safely depressurising the cooling system, recovering some coolant, swapping the sensor and seal, then refilling with the correct Subaru Super Coolant and bleeding air. Tighten to factory torque, clear codes, and verify live data. The ambient sensor sits behind the grille and is easy to knock in minor front-end taps, if temps read nonsense, check that first. The CVT temperature sensor is internal and not a routine service item—if CVT temp codes appear, diagnosis focuses on fluid condition, wiring to the transmission, and internal components rather than a quick sensor swap.

Popular questions about 2016 Subaru Impreza temperature sensors

How long do temperature sensors typically last on a 2016 Impreza?
Most last the life of the vehicle. Failures are uncommon and usually caused by heat-soak, coolant contamination, wiring damage, or impact (for the ambient sensor). Routine checks during cooling-system service and MAF cleaning go a long way to keeping them happy.

What are the signs my coolant temperature sensor is failing?
Look for hard cold starts, black smoke or fuelly smell, poor fuel economy, fans running at odd times, a dead temp gauge, or a check engine light with ECT-related codes. Live data that doesn’t match reality (e.g., showing 110°C on a dead-cold start) is a giveaway.

Is the intake air temperature sensor separate on this model?
On most 2016 Impreza variants, the IAT is built into the MAF housing. If IAT readings are off, inspect and clean the MAF properly and check the connector. Replace the MAF assembly if the IAT element has failed.