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Parts for your 2009 Toyota Aurion-Crank angle sensor
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2009 Toyota Aurion crank-angle sensor: what it does, why it matters, and how to look after it
Yes, the 2009 Toyota Aurion (2GR‑FE 3.5L V6) absolutely uses a crank‑angle sensor, more commonly called a crankshaft position (CKP) sensor. This is documented in Toyota’s factory technical literature for the Aurion/2GR‑FE — including the Engine Control System (SFI) section of the Toyota Repair Manual and the 2009 Aurion Electronic Wiring Diagram (EWD), which show the CKP sensor signal feeding the ECM alongside the camshaft position sensors to manage ignition timing, fuel injection sequencing, and misfire detection.
On this V6, the crank‑angle sensor sits low on the engine block reading a toothed reluctor on the crankshaft. The ECM relies on that signal every second the engine runs. If it drops out, the engine can be hard to start, stumble, or stall, and the dash may light up with a Check Engine warning. Typical diagnostic trouble codes include P0335/P0336 when the signal is missing or erratic, as detailed in Toyota’s SFI diagnostics for the 2GR‑FE.
For owners, the part isn’t a routine “service item”, but it’s smart to give it a bit of attention during major services — especially on higher‑kilometre cars or those with known oil leaks.
- Purpose: Provides exact crank position and speed so the ECM can fire the coils and injectors at the right time, and track misfires accurately.
- Common symptoms when failing: long crank/no start when hot, random stalling at idle or during take‑off, rough running, poor fuel economy, and fault codes (often with a dead tach during cranking).
- Basic checks: Inspect the connector and wiring loom for oil saturation, hardening, or chafe, ensure no loose engine grounds, and keep the area around the sensor free of built‑up grime.
Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer or any workshop:
- Disconnect the battery, raise the vehicle safely, and remove the engine under cover if fitted.
- Locate the sensor low on the block, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, and withdraw the sensor (there’s an O‑ring).
- Lightly oil the new O‑ring, seat the new sensor, refit the bolt, reconnect, and reassemble.
After replacement, clear any stored DTCs and road‑test. No special relearn is typically needed on the 2GR‑FE — the ECM adapts quickly. Because failures can mimic fuel or ignition issues, proper scan‑tool diagnosis (live data for CKP/CMP sync and RPM during crank) is recommended before parts swapping. With a healthy crank‑angle sensor, the Aurion’s V6 delivers crisp starts, smooth idle, and the punchy response it’s known for.
- Where is the crank‑angle sensor on a 2009 Aurion?
It’s mounted low on the 2GR‑FE engine block, reading a toothed wheel on the crankshaft. Access is usually from underneath after removing the lower cover. Exact view depends on model year specifics and whether the car has additional splash shields. - What are the signs it’s failing on an Aurion?
Hard starting (especially hot), random stall, rough running, no‑start with no RPM shown on a scan tool, and codes like P0335/P0336. Intermittent faults can be heat‑related and show up after a long drive. - Can it be cleaned or should it be replaced?
If contamination is light, cleaning the tip and fixing oil leaks or wiring issues can restore a good signal. If the sensor is internally faulty or the signal remains erratic, replacement is the go. Always address wiring or connector damage at the same time.