Parts for your 2003 Toyota Echo|yaris-Crank angle sensor

2003 Toyota Echo/Yaris Crank Angle Sensor (Crankshaft Position Sensor)

Yes, the 2003 Toyota Echo/Yaris is fitted with a crank angle sensor (more commonly called the crankshaft position sensor, or CKP, by Toyota). This is confirmed in Toyota’s service literature for the 1NZ-FE/2NZ-FE engines used in the 2003 Echo/Yaris: the Engine Control (EC) section and the Electrical Wiring Diagram (EWD) identify the CKP “NE” signal to the ECM, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue lists the crankshaft position sensor as a service part for these engines. Denso’s aftermarket catalogue and standard workshop references (e.g., Autodata/Haynes) also show a CKP sensor for this model and year.

On this Echo/Yaris, the crank angle sensor is the ECM’s timekeeper. It monitors the exact rotational position and speed of the crank, letting the ECM fire the spark and inject fuel with spot-on timing. It works in tandem with the cam angle sensor to confirm engine phase for sequential injection and accurate ignition advance, helps with misfire detection, and is essential for clean starts, smooth idle and decent fuel economy. If it goes on the fritz, expect hard starting, random stalling, no-starts, or a check engine light with codes like P0335/P0336.

There’s no scheduled replacement interval—it’s a solid-state part designed to last—but it lives down low on the engine where heat, oil mist and road grime can give it a hard time. Keeping oil leaks in check, ensuring the connector is clean and clipped in properly, and protecting the loom from rubbing or heat will help it last the distance. If it does fail, always confirm with scan data (crank RPM signal present or not) and basic tests before throwing parts at it.

Replacement is straightforward for a home mechanic with a bit of patience:

• Disconnect the battery. Raise the front and remove the RH splash guard for access under the bonnet area.
• Locate the sensor mounted low on the timing chain cover (engine front). Unplug the connector.
• Remove the retaining bolt, withdraw the sensor, and check/replace the O-ring.
• Lightly oil the new O-ring, seat the new sensor, and tighten the bolt to the service manual spec. Reconnect the plug and refit the guard.
• Clear codes and check live data—there should be a stable RPM signal on crank. A short idle relearn might be needed.

Genuine or quality OEM-equivalent (Denso) sensors tend to give the least grief. If the car still plays up after fitting, double-check wiring integrity and earths—age and Kiwi/Aussie heat can make old looms a bit crispy.

Popular questions

Does the 2003 Echo/Yaris actually have a crank angle sensor?
Yes. Toyota’s 2003 Echo/Yaris engine control documentation for the 1NZ-FE/2NZ-FE calls it the crankshaft position sensor (CKP). It provides the “NE” signal to the ECM and is listed in the Toyota parts catalogue as a replaceable item.

Where is the crank angle sensor located on a 1NZ-FE Echo/Yaris?
It’s mounted low on the front of the engine at the timing chain cover, reading a toothed wheel on the crank. Access is often easiest from the wheel arch with the right-hand splash shield removed.

Is it safe to drive with a dodgy crank angle sensor?
Not really. Intermittent signals can cause stalling and no-start situations. If it’s playing up, sort it sooner rather than later to avoid getting stranded.