Parts for your 2016 Subaru Legacy-Camshaft sensor

2016 Subaru Legacy camshaft sensor — purpose, fitment and service advice

Technical sources confirm the 2016 Subaru Legacy uses camshaft position sensors. Subaru’s factory Service Manual for the 2015–2017 Legacy/Outback (Engine Diagnostics section) lists DTCs such as P0340/P0341/P0345 for “Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit,” and the OEM parts catalogue shows camshaft position sensors for both the 2.5-litre FB-series four-cylinder and the 3.6-litre EZ-series six-cylinder. These engines run Subaru’s AVCS variable valve timing and sequential fuel injection, both of which rely on accurate cam phase input, so a camshaft sensor is absolutely relevant and fitted to this model year.

On a 2016 Legacy, the camshaft sensor’s job is to tell the ECU exactly where the camshaft sits relative to the crank. With that signal, the ECU times fuel injection, ignition, and AVCS movements so the engine starts crisply, runs smoothly, and delivers good economy and torque. Lose that signal and the ECU has to guess, which can mean hard starting, rough idle, lazy throttle response and a glowing check engine light.

There’s no set replacement interval in Subaru’s schedule, these sensors are serviced on condition. The smart play during routine servicing is to visually check the sensor connectors and loom runs near the timing covers for rubbed insulation, oil wicking, or water ingress. A light film of clean engine oil on the sensor’s O-ring is normal, but wet oil around the plug often points to a leaking O-ring that’s worth replacing before it creeps into the connector.

• Common clues it’s unhappy: long crank, intermittent stalling, misfires at low revs, poor fuel economy, or AVCS-related fault codes (e.g., P0340/P0345).
• Quick replacement notes: disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the small retaining bolt, twist the sensor free, lightly oil the new O-ring, refit, and clear codes. Most workshops sort this in under an hour.
• Good practice: confirm with a scan tool first. Look at live cam/crank correlation and AVCS target vs actual. Also inspect the crank sensor and timing signals if faults persist.

For longevity, stick with a genuine or high-quality aftermarket sensor and keep connectors clean and properly clipped. On engines with more than one cam sensor, diagnose bank and side carefully so the right unit gets replaced. After fitting, an idle relearn may be needed, and any lingering oil leaks should be tidied up so they don’t spoil the new part.

FAQs

How many camshaft sensors does a 2016 Subaru Legacy have?

It depends on the engine. The 2.5-litre FB engine typically uses multiple sensors to monitor cam position for AVCS, and the 3.6-litre EZ six also has sensors per bank. Check by VIN or a parts catalogue to confirm the exact count for the specific vehicle.

Is it safe to drive with a faulty camshaft sensor?

It might run, but it can be hard to start, stumble, or drop into limp behaviour. There’s a risk of stalling at idle or junctions. Best to have it diagnosed and repaired promptly rather than continuing to drive.

Do camshaft sensors need periodic replacement?

No scheduled interval. They’re replaced when symptoms or fault codes point to a failure. Regular servicing should include a quick inspection of the wiring, connector seals and any oil leaks that could shorten sensor life.