Parts for your 2022 Subaru Outback-Camshaft sensor

2022 Subaru Outback Camshaft Sensor

Yes, the 2022 Subaru Outback uses camshaft position sensors. This is confirmed by Subaru’s factory Service Manual for the 2020–2022 Outback (Engine Diagnostics section noting DTCs P0340/P0345 for Camshaft Position Sensor), the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) wiring diagrams showing camshaft sensor circuits on FB25 and FA24 engines, and the OEM parts catalogue listing camshaft position sensors for these engines. On the 2.5L FB25 and the 2.4L turbo FA24, sensors are fitted on the cylinder heads to monitor cam timing for sequential injection and variable valve timing.

The camshaft position sensor in a 2022 Subaru Outback tells the engine control unit exactly where the camshafts are in their rotation. That precise timing data lets the ECU control fuel injection, ignition, and Subaru’s variable valve timing (AVCS) properly. When it’s working right, the Outback starts quickly, idles smoothly, and delivers good economy and power. If the signal goes missing or messy, the ECU can fall back to a safe mode with lazy performance, hard starting, and a glowing check engine light.

On these boxer-four engines there are camshaft sensors mounted on the front/upper area of each cylinder head. They’re compact Hall-effect units sealed with an O-ring. They work in tandem with the crankshaft sensor: the crank gives speed and base position, the cam sensor provides cylinder identification and phase, which is essential for clean cold starts and accurate AVCS control.

There’s no scheduled replacement for the camshaft sensors, but it’s smart to give them a quick once-over at regular services (typically every 12 months or 15,000 km). Look for oil seepage around the sensor body, brittle wiring, or loose connectors. Keep engine oil at the correct grade and change intervals—poor oil quality or the wrong viscosity can upset cam timing and mimic a sensor fault.

If replacement is needed, start by scanning for codes like P0340/P0345 and checking the harness and connectors. After disconnecting the battery, remove the engine cover and any intake ducting as required, unplug the sensor, undo the single retaining bolt, and gently twist the sensor out. Fit a new O-ring, lightly oil it, seat the new sensor, and tighten the bolt to factory spec. Clear the codes, then road-test to confirm a clean signal and proper AVCS operation. Genuine or high-quality OE-equivalent sensors are recommended, as cheap copies can cause intermittent sync issues.

• Common symptoms: long crank or no-start, rough idle, poor fuel economy, reduced power, intermittent stalling, and the check engine light.
• Typical labour time: about 0.3–0.6 hours per sensor, basic hand tools required.

Popular questions about the 2022 Subaru Outback camshaft sensor

Does the 2022 Outback have more than one camshaft sensor?
Yes. The FB25 2.5L and FA24 2.4L turbo engines each use multiple camshaft sensors, mounted on the cylinder heads. This allows the ECU to track cam phase for both banks and manage AVCS accurately. If one fails, the vehicle can run poorly or enter a reduced-power mode.

What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor?
Common codes are P0340 and P0345 (camshaft position sensor circuit range/performance or malfunction, bank-specific). Before replacing a sensor, it’s worth inspecting wiring, connectors, and oil contamination, and verifying correct engine oil and filter, as these can influence cam timing and set similar codes.

Is it safe to drive with a failing camshaft sensor?
It may start and run, but it’s not ideal. Expect hard starting, rough running, and higher fuel use. Prolonged driving can stress the catalyst and may leave the car stranded if the sensor signal drops out entirely. It’s better to diagnose and repair promptly.