by alexeiwoody » Mon Jul 18, 2016 9:13 am
If the cam isn't moving as it should (according to that CEL, it isn't. Ideally you'd be logging the car live while driving, not just a one off with a scanner when it's off - that way you can make a more accurate diagnosis) - one of three things is the problem.
1. AVCS solenoid
2. Cam sensor
3. Cam gear
That's also the easiest, cheapest order of checking and replacing parts during diagnosis.
1. Swap solenoids side to side to see if the problem moves with the solenoid or stays on the same bank
If problem switches side, you know it's the faulty solenoid. Replace it. Done.
If problem doesn't move sides with the solenoids, move to step two.
2. Switch out cam position sensor, with a known working one or get a new one. If problem goes away, great. If problem persists - step 3.
3. Replace the faulty cam gear. It might be tempting to try and clean it, but it is advisable to buy new. Considering you need to get your timing chain off to replace the gear, I imagine most people would rather do it once correctly, than pay for major service labour twice when they find the cam gear didn't clean up as well as hoped.
Prices are usually much better on partsouq.com, just make sure you get the correct part number first. Delivery is usually 5-10 business days, when the part is listed as in stock.
Another thing to note, check that there are no banjo bolt basket filters blocking the oil flow in the AVCS system. I'm not an expert on the H6, so Im not sure if there are basket filters in the H6. Might just be a thing on the turbo models. Maybe someone here knows, or ask a Subaru specialist. If there are basket filters in any banjo bolts on the AVCS system... These should have been checked first, before replacing your sensor.
Running no. of weeks without breaking something in the lib: 0
No. of things still to fix in in the lib: 97