Parts for your 2017 Subaru Xv-Camshaft sensor

2017 Subaru XV camshaft sensor: purpose, service tips, and when to replace

Based on Subaru’s factory workshop manual for the GP/GT-series XV (2017) and Subaru’s parts catalogue, the 2.0‑litre FB20 DOHC boxer engine in the 2017 Subaru XV is fitted with camshaft position sensors. In fact, it uses two camshaft sensors (one per cylinder bank) working alongside the crankshaft sensor. So the camshaft sensor is absolutely relevant on this model.

On the 2017 XV, the camshaft sensor tracks the exact position and speed of the camshafts so the ECU can time fuel injection, spark, and Subaru’s Active Valve Control System (AVCS) precisely. Paired with the crank sensor, it gives the engine its “sync” for clean starts, smooth idle, solid mid‑range pull, and decent fuel economy. When a cam sensor is unhappy, the ECU loses that clean timing signal, which can trigger hard starting, rough idle, poor performance, and a check engine light.

It’s not a scheduled replacement item, and quality OE sensors usually last ages. As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to:

• Keep engine oil fresh and to spec (the FB20’s AVCS is fussy about oil quality).
• Inspect sensor connectors and harness runs for oil seepage, corrosion, or chafing.
• Scan for fault codes if the check engine light pops up.

Common symptoms that point to a cam sensor or related issue include intermittent stalling, long crank before starting, loss of power, and diagnostic trouble codes like P0340 or P0341. AVCS‑related codes (e.g., P0011, P0014) can also appear if oil is old or low, or if there’s a wiring or timing control issue, so it’s worth checking the basics first.

Replacing a cam sensor on the XV is straightforward for a competent DIYer: remove the plastic engine cover, access the rear of each cylinder head, unplug the sensor, remove the single retaining bolt, and pull the sensor straight out. Lightly oil the O‑ring on the new unit, refit, and torque the bolt to factory spec. Clear fault codes and confirm live data shows clean cam/crank sync. If one sensor has failed, many techs will inspect or pre‑emptively replace its mate on the other bank, especially on higher‑kilometre cars.

Use a quality genuine or reputable aftermarket sensor, keep to regular oil changes, and the XV’s cam timing hardware will keep doing its job quietly under the bonnet.

Popular questions

Does the 2017 Subaru XV have a camshaft sensor?
Yes. The FB20 boxer engine in the 2017 XV uses two camshaft position sensors (one per bank), confirmed by Subaru’s workshop manual and parts catalogue. They work with the crank sensor to manage fuel, spark, and AVCS timing.

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2017 Subaru XV?
Each sensor sits at the rear of a cylinder head, tucked beneath the plastic engine cover. Look for a small sensor with a single bolt and an electrical connector on the back of each bank.

What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor on the XV?
Codes P0340 and P0341 are classic camshaft sensor circuit/performance flags. AVCS codes like P0011 or P0014 can also appear but may be caused by oil quality, solenoids, or wiring rather than the sensor itself, so diagnose carefully.