What brand of O2 sensors does Subaru use?
Subaru O2 sensors are not tied to a single brand; the OEM sensors most often come from NGK/NTK and Denso, with Bosch used on some markets or models.
Oxygen sensors are a key part of Subaru's emissions control. Subaru has sourced sensors from several suppliers over the years, depending on engine family, year of production, and regional supply arrangements. This article explains the brands you’re likely to encounter, how to identify which brand is fitted on your car, and what that means for maintenance and replacement parts.
Common brands used by Subaru O2 sensors
Below are the brands most frequently seen in Subaru vehicles, across eras and regions. Knowing these helps when selecting replacement sensors.
- NTK (NGK) — NTK is NGK's line of oxygen sensors and is widely used as an OEM supplier for many Japanese automakers, including Subaru.
- Denso — A major Japanese supplier that provides oxygen sensors for a range of Subaru engines.
- Bosch — Bosch sensors appear in certain markets or on specific Subaru models; they are less universal across Subaru's lineup but present in some regional supply chains.
While these brands are common, the exact supplier varies by model, year, engine family, and market. Always verify using the car’s parts catalog or VIN-based data for a precise match.
How to verify the O2 sensor brand on your Subaru
Manufacturers label O2 sensors with branding or part numbers; your best source is the official parts catalog tied to your VIN. The following steps help you confirm the brand before purchasing replacements.
- Inspect the sensor body and connector for branding (NGK/NTK, Denso, Bosch) and a part number.
- Check your Subaru’s VIN with the parts catalog or dealership to see the original equipment supplier for your engine code.
- When shopping aftermarket, select parts that state compatibility with your engine family and the exact sensor type (heated, LSU 4.2 vs 4.9, pre/post-cat, etc.).
- Record the exact part number on the sensor to ensure you get the correct fitment and signals for your ECU.
Confirming the precise brand reduces the risk of fitment issues or improper sensor readings that can affect emissions performance.
Summary
Subaru does not rely on a single O2 sensor brand across all models. The most common OEM sources are NTK/NGK and Denso, with Bosch present in some markets. For a given vehicle, check the VIN-specific parts catalog or consult a dealer to confirm the exact brand and sensor type before replacement. This ensures compatibility with Subaru’s emissions system and keeps performance and diagnostics aligned with factory specs.
