Your Selected Vehicle
Parts for your 2005 Toyota Highlander-Camshaft sensor
Explore 4WD & Adventure
2005 Toyota Highlander (Kluger): Camshaft Position Sensor — purpose, fitment and servicing tips
Based on Toyota’s 2005 Highlander/Kluger Repair Manual (Engine Control), the 2005 Electrical Wiring Diagram (EWD), and Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), this model most definitely uses a camshaft position sensor. Both engines offered that year—the 2.4L 2AZ‑FE inline‑four and the 3.3L 3MZ‑FE V6—are equipped with VVT‑i and rely on one (2AZ‑FE) or two (3MZ‑FE, one per bank) camshaft sensors. Toyota diagnostic information for this vehicle also specifies DTCs such as P0340/P0345 for the camshaft position sensor circuit, further confirming fitment and relevance.
The camshaft position sensor keeps the engine control module in the loop about where the cam(s) are at any moment. That lets the ECU sync fuel injection and ignition timing with the crank sensor, and fine‑tune VVT‑i for smooth idle, solid mid‑range pull and better fuel economy. When it’s doing its job, cold starts are cleaner, emissions stay in check and the Highlander/Kluger feels nicely linear across the revs.
This sensor isn’t a scheduled service item, but it benefits from good habits. Clean oil helps, because varnish and sludge can migrate into the sensor area and connectors. If there’s a Check Engine light, rough idle, hard starts, flat spots off the line, or it’s chewing through more petrol than usual, it’s worth scanning for codes like P0340/P0345 before throwing parts at it.
Location under the bonnet is straightforward: on the 2AZ‑FE it’s at the cylinder head near the intake cam, on the 3MZ‑FE there’s one on each bank at the cam covers. Access is typically from up top with a 10 mm fastener. Replacement is quick for most home tinkerers, but mind the O‑ring and follow workshop torque specs.
- Scan for fault codes and confirm live‑data plausibility.
- Inspect the wiring and connector for oil intrusion or damaged pins.
- Disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the bolt, and gently twist the sensor out.
- Lightly oil the new O‑ring, install, torque to spec, clear codes and road‑test.
Go for a quality OEM‑equivalent sensor, cheapies can play up with heat. Typical replacement time is about half to one hour. In Australia or New Zealand, expect a fitted price in the ballpark of a couple of hundred to several hundred dollars depending on engine, parts choice and shop rate.
Does a 2005 Toyota Highlander/Kluger have a camshaft sensor?
Yes. Technical sources including Toyota’s 2005 Repair Manual, EWD, and EPC confirm a camshaft position sensor on the 2.4L 2AZ‑FE and two sensors (one per bank) on the 3.3L 3MZ‑FE. The ECU uses these signals for sequential injection and VVT‑i control.
Where is the camshaft sensor located on this model?
On the 2AZ‑FE it’s mounted on the cylinder head near the intake cam gear. On the 3MZ‑FE V6, there’s a sensor on each bank at the cam covers. All are accessible from under the bonnet with basic hand tools.
Is it safe to drive with a failing camshaft sensor, and what might it cost to fix?
It may run, but starting can be hard and performance/consumption can suffer. Prolonged driving risks stalling and catalyst damage if misfires develop. In AU/NZ, parts and labour typically land in the AUD/NZD $150–$500 range, depending on engine and sensor quality.
