Parts for your 2008 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Crank angle sensor

2008 Toyota Vitz/Yaris crank angle sensor — what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2008 Toyota Vitz/Yaris is fitted with a crank angle sensor (Toyota typically calls it the crankshaft position sensor, CKP). Technical sources that document its presence include the Toyota Repair Manual for the XP90 Yaris/Vitz range (covering 1KR‑FE, 2NZ‑FE and 1NZ‑FE engines), Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue listing “Sensor, Crank Position” for these engines, and the factory diagnostic information showing OBD‑II fault codes P0335–P0339 for crankshaft position circuit and signal issues.

This little sensor plays a big role. It watches a toothed wheel on the crank and feeds an exact engine speed and position signal to the ECU. That data is what the ECU uses to fire the coils, time the injectors, stabilise idle, and coordinate VVT‑i. Lose that signal and the car can be hard to start, stall, or not run at all.

It’s a solid-state part and isn’t a regular service item, but it does benefit from quick checks during scheduled servicing. Make sure the connector is clean, the harness isn’t chafed, and there are no oil leaks collecting around the sensor body. If it’s removed, replace the O‑ring and keep the tip clean—no abrasives or magnets near the reluctor ring.

• Typical symptoms of a failing crank angle sensor: long crank/no start, sudden stall while driving, rough running, erratic tacho, and the MIL on with codes like P0335 or P0339.
• Common causes: internal sensor failure, heat and vibration fatigue, oil contamination at the connector, damaged wiring, or a bent/dirty reluctor wheel.

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools. On most 1NZ‑FE/2NZ‑FE cars it’s mounted low at the front of the engine on the timing cover, some 1KR‑FE variants may sit near the bellhousing—check the engine code. Disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the retaining bolt, pull the sensor and O‑ring, lightly oil a new O‑ring, fit the new sensor, route the loom correctly, and tighten to the specification in the Toyota manual. Clear any codes and confirm a steady RPM signal on a scan tool during cranking.

There’s no set kilometre interval to swap it out, it’s a “replace on fault” item. Choosing a quality OEM or reputable aftermarket sensor is worth it, as signal quality matters for smooth starting and fuel economy. A quick eyes-on inspection at major services helps catch wiring or leak issues before they strand the car.

Technical references used

• Toyota Repair Manual for 2008 Yaris/Vitz (XP90, engines 1KR‑FE, 2NZ‑FE, 1NZ‑FE) — ignition, engine control and DTC sections referencing the CKP (crank angle) sensor and codes P0335–P0339.
• Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue — “Sensor, Crank Position” listed for 2008 Vitz/Yaris variants.
• OBD‑II diagnostics for Toyota XP90 platform — crankshaft position circuit/signal fault coverage.

FAQ

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2008 Vitz/Yaris?
On most 1NZ‑FE and 2NZ‑FE models it’s mounted low on the front of the engine at the timing chain cover, reading a reluctor on the crank. Some 1KR‑FE 1.0‑litre variants place it closer to the transmission side. A quick look from under the front with the splash guard off usually spots it by its single retaining bolt and two‑pin connector.

Can the sensor be cleaned or should it just be replaced?
You can clean the connector and remove light debris from the sensor tip, but if the sensor has internal faults, cracking, oil saturation inside the body, or triggers P0335/P0339 repeatedly, replacement is the fix. Never sand or file the tip, and don’t bend or contaminate the crank reluctor wheel.

Does it need a relearn after replacement?
On the XP90 Yaris/Vitz, a special crank relearn is generally not required. Clear any stored codes, start the engine, and the ECU will use the new signal straight away. If faults persist, check wiring integrity, connector fit, and actual mechanical timing.