1993 Subaru SVXFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Code 13: Cam Angle Sensor

NOTE: Refer to illustration for ECU connector and terminal identification. See Figure .
  1. Turn ignition switch to OFF position. Disconnect ECU connectors. Check ECU input signal for cam angle sensor. Using a DVOM set to low-volt AC scale, check for voltage variation between ECU connector B59, terminals No. 7 and 9 while cranking engine. Voltage variation should be at least 0.1 volt and should be synchronous with RPM. If voltage is not as specified, go to next step. If voltage is as specified, check ECU connector terminals for good contact. Repair as necessary. If connector terminals are okay, replace ECU.
  2. Turn ignition switch to OFF position. Disconnect cam angle sensor connector. Using an ohmmeter, check resistance between ECU connector B59, terminal No. 7 and cam angle sensor connector terminal No. 1 (Black wire), and between ECU connector B59, terminal No. 9, and cam angle sensor connector terminal No. 2 (White wire). Resistance should be zero ohms for each circuit. If resistance is as specified, go to next step. If resistance is not as specified, repair appropriate circuit as necessary.
  3. Check resistance between ground and ECU connector B59, terminals No. 7 and 9. Resistance should be one megohm or greater at each terminal. If resistance is as specified, go to next step. If resistance is not as specified, repair circuit as necessary.
  4. Remove cam angle sensor. Connect oscilloscope positive lead to sensor terminal No. 1 (Black wire), and negative lead to sensor terminal No. 2 (White wire). While moving magnet over cam angle sensor pick-up coil, check oscilloscope wave pattern. If wave pattern exists, malfunction is mechanical. If wave pattern does not exist, replace cam angle sensor.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.