Parts for your 2005 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Crank angle sensor

2005 Toyota Vitz/Yaris crank angle sensor — what it does and when to replace it

Toyota’s own technical information confirms the 2005 Vitz/Yaris (XP90 series) uses a crank angle sensor – more commonly called a crankshaft position (CKP) sensor. The Toyota Repair Manual and Electrical Wiring Diagram for the XP90 show the ECM receiving an “NE” signal from the CKP sensor, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue lists a dedicated crank position sensor across the 1KR‑FE (1.0 L), 2SZ‑FE (1.3 L) and 1NZ‑FE (1.5 L) engines. So yes, it’s absolutely fitted and relevant on this model.

This little sensor is the timekeeper for the engine. It watches a toothed wheel on the crank and feeds the ECM precise position and speed data so it can fire the coils and injectors at exactly the right moment. On these Vitz/Yaris engines it also works with the camshaft sensor for accurate phase control, which helps with smooth starts, crisp throttle response, decent fuel economy and lower emissions.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it deserves a look during routine servicing. Check the wiring and connector for brittleness, corrosion or oil wicking, and keep an eye out for front crank seal leaks that can contaminate the sensor. Typical warning signs of trouble include long cranking, intermittent stalling, sudden loss of power, a dead tachometer while cranking, and fault codes like P0335–P0339.

• Location: usually mounted in the timing chain cover near the crank pulley (1NZ‑FE/2SZ‑FE), or in the block near the crank nose on the 1KR‑FE.
• Common causes: heat soak, oil contamination, damaged harness, or metal debris on the sensor tip (for magnetic types).

If replacement’s on the cards, it’s a straightforward driveway job for many owners:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Gain access under the bonnet (airbox or splash shield may need to come off).
3. Unplug the CKP connector, remove the retaining bolt, and withdraw the sensor.
4. Lightly oil the new O‑ring, install the sensor, and tighten the bolt to workshop‑manual spec.
5. Reconnect, clear any codes, and road test. No special relearn is typically required on these Toyotas.

Go for genuine or a reputable aftermarket brand, cheap knock‑offs can cause ghost faults. If you’re chasing an intermittent issue, wiggle‑test the loom and check earths before condemning the sensor. A decent scan tool that shows live RPM while cranking makes diagnosis quicker.

Popular questions about 2005 Toyota Vitz/Yaris crank angle sensors

Does a 2005 Toyota Vitz/Yaris have a crank angle sensor?
Yes. Toyota’s XP90 service manual, EWD, and parts catalogue all list a crankshaft position (crank angle) sensor for the 1KR‑FE, 2SZ‑FE and 1NZ‑FE engines. It supplies the ECM with the NE signal for ignition and fuel timing.

Where is the crank angle sensor located on a 2005 Yaris 1.5 (1NZ‑FE)?
On the 1NZ‑FE it’s mounted through the timing chain cover near the crank pulley, reading a reluctor on the crank. Access is usually from above with the air intake out, or from underneath with the splash shield off.

Can a faulty crank angle sensor cause stalling or a no‑start?
It can. A weak or missing CKP signal means the ECM doesn’t know when to fire coils or injectors, leading to long cranks, random stalls, or a complete no‑start. Look for codes P0335–P0339 and check wiring and oil leaks before replacement.