Parts for your 2004 Toyota Caldina-Camshaft sensor

2004 Toyota Caldina camshaft sensor — what it does, where it lives, and how to look after it

Based on technical sources, the 2004 Toyota Caldina does use a camshaft position sensor across its T24# series engines (1ZZ-FE 1.8L, 1AZ-FSE 2.0L D‑4, and 3S‑GTE 2.0L turbo). Toyota’s Repair Manual and EWD list the camshaft position (G) signal to the ECM for these engines, with diagnostic routines for DTCs such as P0340/P0341. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue also lists a “Sensor, Cam Position” for Caldina variants of this model run. So yes—this part is relevant and fitted to the 2004 Caldina.

On the 2004 Caldina, the camshaft sensor tells the ECU exactly where the cam is in its rotation, so the engine can sync fuel injection and ignition timing with the crank signal. It’s also vital for VVT operation on engines like the 1ZZ‑FE and 1AZ‑FSE, letting the ECU confirm the cam’s actual position versus target. When the sensor goes out of whack, the car can be hard to start, stumble off idle, chew more fuel, or drop into limp mode, and it’ll usually pop a check engine light with codes like P0340 or P0341.

There’s no strict service interval for the sensor itself, but a quick look during routine servicing is smart: check the connector for oil ingress, broken locking tabs, and any chafed wiring. A light mist of oil from a rocker cover gasket can track into the plug over time, so cleaning the connector and rerouting the loom away from sharp edges is cheap insurance. Given it’s a solid-state Hall sensor, if it fails electrically it’s generally a straight replacement rather than a repair.

Replacement is a driveway job for most. Under the bonnet, the sensor is mounted to the cylinder head near the timing cover area (exact spot varies by engine). Typical steps are:

• Disconnect battery.
• Unplug the sensor connector and remove the retaining bolt.
• Twist and withdraw the sensor, minding the O‑ring.
• Lightly oil the new O‑ring, install, and torque the bolt (refer to the workshop manual, it’s usually in the 8–10 N·m ballpark).
• Reconnect, clear codes, and road test.

Choosing a quality, OE‑equivalent sensor (often Denso for Toyota) keeps the ECU happy and avoids gremlins. If a fresh sensor doesn’t clear the drama, check the crank sensor and timing, as the ECU needs both signals to line up nicely.

FAQs

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 2004 Caldina?
It’s fitted on the end of the cylinder head near the timing cover. On 1ZZ‑FE it sits by the chain end, on 1AZ‑FSE it’s at the head end facing the gearbox side, on 3S‑GTE it’s mounted at the head/timing belt end. Access is usually straightforward with basic hand tools.

What fault codes point to a camshaft sensor issue?
Common codes are P0340 (camshaft position circuit) and P0341 (range/performance). Intermittent wiring faults can also throw P0343 (high input). Always check the connector, loom routing, and engine earths before condemning the sensor.

Can the camshaft sensor be cleaned or should it be replaced?
If it’s just oily or dusty, a clean and a fresh O‑ring may do the trick. If it’s logged electrical faults or shows a bad waveform, replacement is the go. Use an OE‑quality part to avoid repeat visits.