Subaru Crankshaft Position Sensor: Location and Troubleshooting Guide

Subaru crankshaft position sensor location – Discover the Subaru crankshaft position sensor’s location and immerse yourself in a comprehensive guide to its identification, inspection, and replacement procedures. Delve into troubleshooting techniques and gain insights into common symptoms and error codes associated with a faulty sensor.

With clear explanations and practical advice, this guide empowers you to maintain and repair your Subaru’s engine with confidence.

Subaru Crankshaft Position Sensor Location

Subaru crankshaft position sensor location

The crankshaft position sensor (CPS) is a crucial component in Subaru engines, providing vital information to the engine control unit (ECU) for optimal engine operation. It detects the position and speed of the crankshaft, allowing the ECU to precisely control fuel injection and ignition timing.

Typical Location

In most Subaru vehicles, the crankshaft position sensor is typically located on the front of the engine, near the crankshaft pulley. It is usually mounted on the timing belt cover or the oil pump housing, facing the crankshaft.

Variations

The exact location of the crankshaft position sensor may vary slightly depending on the Subaru model and engine type:

  • EJ-series engines:The CPS is typically located on the left side of the engine, mounted on the timing belt cover.
  • FB-series engines:The CPS is usually found on the front of the engine, attached to the oil pump housing.
  • H-series engines:The CPS is located on the front of the engine, near the crankshaft pulley.

Identification and Inspection: Subaru Crankshaft Position Sensor Location

Subaru crankshaft position sensor location

Identifying and inspecting the crankshaft position sensor (CPS) in a Subaru is crucial for ensuring proper engine performance. The CPS plays a vital role in monitoring the crankshaft’s position and timing, providing essential information to the engine control unit (ECU).

By understanding the physical characteristics and location of the CPS, you can effectively inspect it for signs of damage or wear.

Physical Characteristics

The Subaru CPS is typically a small, cylindrical device with a connector on one end. It is usually made of plastic or metal and has a magnetic core inside. The sensor’s dimensions and appearance may vary depending on the specific Subaru model and engine type.

Location

The CPS is typically located near the crankshaft pulley or flywheel. In most Subaru models, it can be found on the front or side of the engine block, mounted either directly on the crankshaft or on a bracket. To locate the CPS, follow these steps:

  1. Open the hood and locate the engine.
  2. Identify the crankshaft pulley or flywheel.
  3. Look for a small, cylindrical sensor with a connector attached to it near the pulley or flywheel.

Inspection

Once you have located the CPS, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. Here are some key areas to check:

  • Connector:Check if the connector is securely attached to the sensor and free of corrosion or damage.
  • Housing:Inspect the sensor housing for cracks, dents, or other damage that could affect its performance.
  • Wiring:Examine the wiring harness connected to the sensor for any cuts, fraying, or loose connections.
  • Magnetic core:If possible, remove the sensor and check the magnetic core for any visible damage or wear.

Replacement Procedures

Replacing a faulty crankshaft position sensor in a Subaru involves several key steps. These steps should be followed carefully to ensure a successful replacement and proper engine operation.

Before beginning the replacement process, it is essential to take the necessary safety precautions. This includes disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery to prevent electrical shocks. Additionally, it is advisable to allow the engine to cool down completely before starting the replacement to avoid burns.

Disconnecting the Sensor

  1. Locate the crankshaft position sensor, which is typically situated near the crankshaft pulley.
  2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the sensor by gently pressing on the release tab and pulling it straight off.

Removing the Old Unit

  1. Using a suitable wrench, loosen the bolt that secures the sensor to the engine block.
  2. Carefully remove the old sensor from its mounting location.

Installing the New Sensor

  1. Align the new sensor with its mounting location and insert it into place.
  2. Tighten the mounting bolt securely, but avoid overtightening.
  3. Reconnect the electrical connector to the sensor by pushing it firmly into place until it clicks.
  4. Recheck the tightness of the electrical connector and mounting bolt to ensure a secure installation.

Troubleshooting and Diagnosis

Subaru sensor position crankshaft p0335 test

A faulty crankshaft position sensor in a Subaru can manifest in various ways. Common symptoms include engine misfires, rough idling, stalling, and difficulty starting. Additionally, error codes related to the crankshaft position sensor may be present, such as P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction) or P0336 (Crankshaft Position Sensor Range/Performance Problem).

To troubleshoot and diagnose sensor issues, you can employ diagnostic tools or visual inspection. Diagnostic tools like OBD-II scanners can retrieve error codes and provide real-time data, helping pinpoint the faulty component. Visual inspection involves checking the sensor’s wiring harness for any loose connections or damage.

You can also use a multimeter to test the sensor’s resistance and voltage output, comparing the readings to manufacturer specifications.

Interpreting Diagnostic Results

After retrieving diagnostic results, it’s crucial to interpret them correctly. Error codes like P0335 or P0336 indicate a problem with the crankshaft position sensor or its circuit. Further analysis using diagnostic tools or visual inspection can help identify the root cause, such as a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or poor connection.

Determining the Appropriate Course of Action, Subaru crankshaft position sensor location

Once the issue has been diagnosed, the appropriate course of action can be determined. If the sensor is faulty, it will need to be replaced. Ensure to use a high-quality replacement sensor from a reputable manufacturer. If the wiring harness is damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

In some cases, cleaning the sensor and its connections may resolve the issue.

Additional Information

This section provides additional technical details, specifications, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to Subaru crankshaft position sensors.

The crankshaft position sensor is a critical component in Subaru engines, providing essential information to the engine control module (ECM) for proper engine operation. Understanding its specifications and potential issues can assist in troubleshooting and maintenance.

Technical Specifications

Subaru crankshaft position sensors typically utilize a Hall effect or inductive sensing mechanism to detect the position of the crankshaft. The sensor generates an electrical signal that varies based on the crankshaft’s position, allowing the ECM to determine the engine’s timing and adjust fuel injection and ignition accordingly.

The specifications of Subaru crankshaft position sensors may vary depending on the model and year of the vehicle. However, some common specifications include:

  • Sensing mechanism: Hall effect or inductive
  • Output signal: Voltage or frequency
  • Operating voltage: 5-12 volts
  • Operating temperature range: -40 to 125 degrees Celsius

Subaru Crankshaft Position Sensor Specifications Table

The following table provides a comparison of crankshaft position sensor specifications across different Subaru models and years:

Model Year Sensing Mechanism Output Signal Operating Voltage Operating Temperature Range
Impreza 2002-2007 Hall effect Voltage 5-12 volts -40 to 125 degrees Celsius
Legacy 2005-2009 Inductive Frequency 5-12 volts -40 to 125 degrees Celsius
Outback 2006-2010 Hall effect Voltage 5-12 volts -40 to 125 degrees Celsius
Forester 2008-2013 Inductive Frequency 5-12 volts -40 to 125 degrees Celsius

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are some frequently asked questions about Subaru crankshaft position sensors:

  • What are the symptoms of a faulty crankshaft position sensor?
  • How can I test a crankshaft position sensor?
  • How much does it cost to replace a crankshaft position sensor?
  • Can I replace a crankshaft position sensor myself?

End of Discussion

Master the intricacies of your Subaru’s crankshaft position sensor with this in-depth exploration. From its location to troubleshooting, this guide equips you with the knowledge and skills to keep your engine running smoothly.

FAQ Overview

Where is the crankshaft position sensor located in a Subaru?

Typically, the crankshaft position sensor is situated near the engine’s crankshaft pulley or flywheel.

What are the signs of a faulty crankshaft position sensor?

Engine stalling, rough idling, difficulty starting, and illuminated check engine light are common symptoms.

How do I replace a crankshaft position sensor in a Subaru?

Refer to the replacement procedures section of this guide for step-by-step instructions.

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