What brand O2 sensor does Subaru use?
Subaru does not rely on a single oxygen sensor brand across all models. The brand varies by model year and region, with NTK (NGK) and Bosch among the most common suppliers, and Denso appearing in some markets or generations.
This article explains how Subaru sources O2 sensors, which brands you’re likely to encounter, how to identify the brand on your sensor, and how to shop for replacements with confidence.
Brand variety by model and market
The exact O2 sensor brand you find on a Subaru depends on era, region, and production run. The two names you’re most likely to see in Subaru catalogs are NTK (NGK) and Bosch, with Denso appearing in limited cases or older cars. When buying replacements, verify the OEM part number in Subaru's official diagrams or your owner's manual.
To guide you through what you might encounter, the following brands are commonly associated with Subaru oxygen sensors:
- NTK (NGK) Oxygen Sensors — A frequent OEM and aftermarket choice for many Subaru models.
- Bosch Oxygen Sensors — Used in some markets and on certain generations.
- Denso Oxygen Sensors — Present in certain regions or older model years.
Bottom line: Subaru's oxygen sensors are supplied by more than one brand; the right choice depends on your specific car's year and market.
How to identify the brand on your O2 sensor
To know exactly which brand your Subaru uses, inspect the sensor itself and consult official parts references:
- Look for a brand name or logo stamped on the sensor body.
- Check the OEM part number stamped on the sensor or printed on the packaging; cross-reference with Subaru's parts catalogs or dealer system.
- Compare the connector shape and wire color codes with known brand designs (Bosch, NTK, Denso vary in plugs).
- When in doubt, provide your VIN to a Subaru dealer or use an authorized parts retailer to confirm the correct sensor brand and part number.
Identifying the correct brand helps ensure compatibility with the ECU calibration, downstream emissions systems, and warranty coverage.
What this means for owners shopping for replacements
Because Subaru does not publish a single brand as the universal supplier, buyers should verify model/year-specific requirements. Use OEM part numbers from official diagrams, or seek the same-brand replacement if your car originally used NTK, Bosch, or Denso sensors.
Practical shopping tips
When shopping, keep these points in mind:
- Prefer OEM (Subaru) parts or high-quality equivalents that match the original brand if your vehicle has a known supplier.
- Ensure the sensor type matches your car’s system (narrowband vs wideband) and the correct bank (Bank 1/Bank 2, sensors 1/2 as applicable).
- Check return policies and warranty for sensors, since O2 sensors can fail due to exhaust leaks or upstream issues rather than the sensor itself.
Having the correct brand and part number reduces the risk of future diagnostic trouble codes and ensures optimal emissions performance.
Summary
In short, Subaru does not rely on a single oxygen sensor brand. The most common suppliers across various models and markets are NTK (NGK) and Bosch, with Denso appearing in certain generations or regions. To buy the right replacement, consult your vehicle’s OEM part diagrams or have a dealer confirm the exact brand for your VIN. Verifying the brand and part number helps ensure compatibility and longevity of emissions-related components.
