Parts for your 2018 Subaru Forester-Crank angle sensor

2018 Subaru Forester crank-angle-sensor — purpose, servicing and advice

Yes, the 2018 Subaru Forester uses a crank-angle sensor (commonly called a crankshaft position sensor or CKP). This is documented in Subaru’s Factory Service Manual for the SJ-series Forester (engine diagnostics section listing DTCs P0335/P0336 for the crankshaft position sensor), and reflected in OEM parts catalogues that list a CKP for both the FB25 (2.5L) and FA20F (2.0L turbo) engines. Independent repair information systems for the 2018 Forester also include test procedures and wiring for the CKP circuit, confirming it’s a fitted and essential engine management component.

On the 2018 Forester, the crank-angle sensor feeds the ECU a precise signal of crankshaft speed and position by reading a toothed reluctor on the crank. The ECU uses that information to fire the coils at the right moment, schedule fuel injection, and validate cam timing and misfire detection. If that signal goes missing or messy, expect rough running, hard starting, or a complete no-start — it’s that critical.

There’s no scheduled maintenance for the crank-angle sensor, but it benefits from a quick look during routine servicing. A technician will check the wiring and connector for heat damage or corrosion, make sure the sensor body is seated squarely, and confirm there are no oil leaks tracking into the plug. Because the sensor tip is magnetic, keeping metal filings away helps prevent false readings.

• Common symptoms of trouble:
  • Intermittent stalling or long crank before it fires
  • Tacho dropping to zero while cranking
  • Check engine light with codes like P0335/P0336
  • Rough idle, misfire feel, or limp behaviour

Replacement is straightforward for a qualified mechanic: isolate the battery, access the sensor on the engine block where it reads the crank trigger wheel, swap the unit and O-ring, and secure it to the manufacturer’s torque spec. Always route the harness away from hot bits and moving parts, clear any fault codes, and perform an idle relearn if required. Using a quality OEM-equivalent sensor is worth it — cheap units can cause intermittent dramas that are hard to pin down.

For owners across Australia and New Zealand, expect typical labour of around half to one hour, plus the cost of the sensor. If the Forester shows the symptoms above, or throws CKP-related codes, it’s smart to get it checked promptly to avoid getting stranded.

Popular questions

What are the signs a 2018 Forester’s crank-angle sensor is failing?
Drivers often report long cranking, random stalling, a dead tacho during cranking, or the check engine light with codes like P0335. It may also feel flat on power or misfire at idle. Intermittent faults can come and go with heat, making them tricky until they fully fail.

Is it safe to keep driving with a dodgy crank-angle sensor?
Not really. While the car might run when the signal is intermittent, it can cut out without warning or refuse to restart after a short stop. That’s a safety and reliability risk, so it’s best to have it diagnosed and sorted sooner rather than later.

How much does a crank-angle sensor replacement cost in AU/NZ?
Generally, parts pricing varies by brand, but an OEM or reputable aftermarket sensor plus 0.5–1.0 hours of labour is typical. Final pricing depends on workshop rates and engine variant, so getting a quick quote from a trusted mechanic is the way to go.