Parts for your 2009 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Crank angle sensor

2009 Toyota Vitz/Yaris crank angle sensor (crankshaft position sensor): what it does and when to replace it

Based on technical sources including the Toyota Repair Manual for the XP90 series Yaris/Vitz (Engine section: Crankshaft Position Sensor, DTC P0335–P0339), Toyota Electrical Wiring Diagram (CKP circuit to ECM), and Toyota parts catalogues for the 1KR‑FE, 2SZ‑FE and 1NZ‑FE engines, the 2009 Toyota Vitz/Yaris is fitted with a crank angle sensor (more commonly called the crankshaft position sensor, or CKP). It’s an essential input the ECU relies on for spark timing, injector sequencing and variable valve timing.

On this model, the sensor reads a toothed reluctor on the crank to tell the ECU exactly where the engine is in its rotation. That live data lets the car start crisply, idle smoothly and pull cleanly through the revs while keeping fuel use and emissions in check. If the signal goes missing or dirty, the ECU flags fault codes (often P0335/P0336), and you’ll usually notice long cranking, a stall, rough running or a no‑start.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for the CKP on a 2009 Vitz/Yaris, it’s a “replace on condition” item. As part of routine servicing, a smart workshop will:

• Visually check the sensor connector and loom under the bonnet for oil contamination, hardened insulation or chafing.
• Scan for pending codes and look at live CKP signal quality if any drivability niggles are reported.
• If removed, wipe the magnetic tip to clear metal fuzz and fit a fresh O‑ring to prevent oil weeps.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer or tech: disconnect the battery, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, ease the sensor out of the timing cover/block, lightly oil the new O‑ring and refit. Avoid levering or twisting hard, as the mounting face and O‑ring do the sealing. Always clear codes and confirm a clean crank signal on a short road test.

Location varies slightly by engine: on the 1KR‑FE it’s at the timing cover near the crank sprocket, on the 1NZ‑FE/2SZ‑FE it’s typically low on the block reading the crank tone wheel. Use quality parts, cheap sensors can produce weak signals and intermittent hot faults that are a pain to trace. If in doubt between cam and crank sensors, remember the CKP is the one the car absolutely needs to sync spark and fuel—when it drops out, so does the party.

Popular questions

Does a 2009 Toyota Vitz/Yaris actually have a crank angle sensor?

Yes. Toyota’s XP90 service manual and wiring diagrams show a dedicated crankshaft position (crank angle) sensor feeding the ECU on 1KR‑FE, 2SZ‑FE and 1NZ‑FE engines. It’s required for starting, spark timing and injector control, and is associated with DTCs P0335–P0339 if there’s a fault.

What are the common symptoms of a failing crank angle sensor on this model?

Typical signs include long cranking or a complete no‑start, sudden stalling, rough idle, hesitation on take‑off, and the check engine light with codes like P0335. Intermittent heat‑soak faults are common—runs fine cold, then dies or won’t restart hot until it cools.

How much does replacement usually cost and how long does it take?

In Australia or New Zealand, a quality sensor generally sits in the $60–$180 range, with around 0.5–1.0 hour of labour depending on engine and access. Many workshops bundle it with diagnosis and a quick road test to confirm the signal’s rock‑solid afterwards.