Parts for your 2000 Toyota Altezza-Camshaft sensor

2000 Toyota Altezza camshaft sensor: what it does, common faults, and service tips

Based on Toyota’s technical literature, the 2000 Toyota Altezza does use a camshaft position sensor. The Toyota Factory Service Manual (FSM) for GXE10/SXE10 (IS200/Altezza), the Electrical Wiring Diagram (EWD), and Toyota’s parts catalogue all show a camshaft position sensor (CMP) fitted on both Altezza engines of the era: the 1G‑FE (AS200) and the 3S‑GE BEAMS (RS200). The FSM also documents diagnostic trouble codes such as P0340/P0341 for CMP faults, confirming the sensor’s role in engine control.

The camshaft sensor on a 2000 Altezza keeps the ECU in the loop about where the cams are in relation to the crank. That timing info lets the ECU run true sequential fuel injection and spark, and it’s essential for VVT‑i (and Dual VVT‑i on RS200), so the car pulls cleanly, sips fuel, and meets emissions. If the sensor goes on the fritz, the ECU can drop into fallback, switching off VVT‑i, which means lazy throttle response and a heavier appetite for petrol.

Typical signs of a crook cam sensor include a hard or long crank, rough idle once warm, flat spots through the revs, and the check engine light with codes like P0340/P0341 (and on dual‑VVT setups, sometimes P0345/P0349 style codes). On the AS200’s 1G‑FE there’s one CMP at the front of the head (intake side). On the RS200’s 3S‑GE BEAMS there are typically two CMPs—one on each cam—to keep Dual VVT‑i honest. Always confirm by VIN/engine code when ordering parts.

It’s not a routine replacement item, but it’s worth a look every major service: check the connector under the bonnet for brittle wiring, make sure there’s no oil weeping through the sensor’s O‑ring, and keep oil changes on time—dirty oil can hasten sensor and VVT gear issues. When diagnosing, don’t just toss a new sensor at it. Use a scan tool to confirm live cam/crank sync, and if available, an oscilloscope to check the 5‑V supply, ground, and signal. Verify the timing trigger wheel isn’t damaged.

When replacement is needed, choose a quality OEM‑equivalent (Denso is common on these). Swap the O‑ring, seat the sensor carefully, and tighten the retaining bolt to the spec in the FSM (don’t overdo it with the spanner). After refit, clear codes and take a proper road test, the ECU will relearn without special programming. Expect smoother starts, crisper mid‑range, and better kilometres per litre once it’s sorted.

• Common symptoms: hard start, rough idle, poor economy, VVT‑i inactive, check engine light (P0340/P0341).
• Service tip: inspect wiring and O‑ring at each major service, keep oil changes timely.
• Fitment note: AS200 (1G‑FE) usually one CMP, RS200 (3S‑GE BEAMS) typically two CMPs.

Does the 2000 Altezza have one or two camshaft sensors?

On the AS200 with the 1G‑FE engine there’s generally a single camshaft position sensor on the intake cam. The RS200 with the 3S‑GE BEAMS typically runs two sensors—one on each cam—to support Dual VVT‑i. Always check by VIN or engine code before ordering parts to avoid mix‑ups.

Can the Altezza run with a faulty camshaft sensor?

It might crank longer and occasionally start, but it can stumble, feel flat, and disable VVT‑i. In some cases it won’t start at all. Even if it moves, driving with a dodgy sensor risks poor economy and extra emissions, so it’s best to diagnose and repair promptly.

What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor on an Altezza?

Common CMP‑related codes are P0340 and P0341. On Dual VVT‑i setups (RS200), additional codes like P0345/P0349 can appear for the second cam. Always check wiring, connectors, and oil contamination before condemning the sensor itself.