Parts for your 2006 Toyota Highlander-Crank angle sensor

2006 Toyota Highlander/Kluger crank angle sensor

Technical sources confirm this vehicle is fitted with a crank angle sensor – Toyota refers to it as the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor. The Toyota Repair Manual for the 2006 Highlander/Kluger (2AZ‑FE and 3MZ‑FE engine sections), the Toyota Electrical Wiring Diagram (EWD), and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog all show a CKP sensor that feeds the engine control module. Toyota’s New Car Features (NCF) guide for these engines also describes CKP/CMP signal use for fuel and ignition timing. So yes, it’s relevant and used on the 2006 Highlander/Kluger (including Hybrid).

The crank angle (crankshaft position) sensor is a small but vital bit of kit that lets the ECM know exactly where the crank is and how fast it’s spinning. Working with the cam sensor, it times spark and fuel injection so the 2AZ‑FE four-cylinder or 3MZ‑FE V6 runs smoothly and efficiently. On the 2AZ‑FE it’s mounted on the timing chain cover near the crank pulley, on the 3MZ‑FE it’s down by the oil pump housing behind the crank pulley area. The Hybrid uses the same V6 sensor location.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it deserves a look during routine servicing. If there’s oil weeping from the front crank seal or timing cover, that muck can build up around the sensor nose and connector. Wipe away contamination, make sure the plug is clean and the harness isn’t chafed, and avoid blasting it with a pressure washer. A healthy sensor helps maintain easy starts, good fuel economy and clean emissions.

Common clues it’s on the way out include long cranking or no‑start, random stalling, rough idle, or the MIL popping on with codes like P0335 or P0336. Before replacing, check wiring and connector fit first—they’re often the real culprits. If the sensor itself has failed, fitting a quality OEM‑spec replacement is the go. The job is usually straightforward: disconnect the battery, gain access from the wheel arch by removing the splash shield, unplug the connector, remove the single fixing bolt, and ease the sensor out. Don’t pry against the plastic body, and route the loom exactly as Toyota intended to avoid future rub‑through. These sensors are non‑adjustable—there’s no air‑gap setting—so it’s a simple install. Once fitted, clear any fault codes and take it for a drive, most Highlanders don’t need a special relearn. If faults persist, inspect the crank reluctor ring and related wiring.

• Typical fault codes: P0335 (CKP circuit), P0336 (CKP range/performance), sometimes P0339 (intermittent)
• Best practice: fix any oil leaks, keep connectors dry, and use OEM‑quality parts

Popular questions

Does a 2006 Toyota Highlander/Kluger have a crank angle sensor?
Yes. Toyota labels it the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor. It provides the ECM with precise crank speed and position information so the engine can time spark and fuel correctly. Without it, the engine may not start or will run poorly. This is documented in Toyota’s 2006 Repair Manual, EWD and NCF for both 2AZ‑FE and 3MZ‑FE engines.

Where is the crank angle (CKP) sensor located on a 2006 Highlander?
On the 2.4‑litre 2AZ‑FE it’s mounted on the timing chain cover near the crank pulley. On the 3.3‑litre 3MZ‑FE (including Hybrid) it sits low near the oil pump housing behind the crank pulley area. Access is typically easiest through the right‑hand wheel arch after removing the plastic splash shield.

What are the signs it needs replacement, and can it be cleaned?
Long cranking, a no‑start, random stalling, rough idle and a check‑engine light with P0335/P0336 are common signs. If it’s just dirty from an oil mist, a careful clean of the sensor tip and connector can help, but internal electrical faults mean replacement. Always inspect and repair the wiring before condemning the sensor.