Parts for your 2012 Lexus Is-Crank angle sensor

2012 Lexus IS crank-angle sensor (crankshaft position sensor)

For the 2012 Lexus IS range (IS250 4GR-FSE, IS350 2GR-FSE and IS F 2UR-GSE), a crank-angle sensor is absolutely fitted and relevant. Lexus/Toyota technical sources including the Lexus IS (GSE/USE) Repair Manual and Toyota TIS service information list the “Crankshaft Position Sensor” (often called a crank-angle sensor) as a key input to the ECM, with diagnostics such as DTC P0335/P0339. Lexus parts catalogues also show the sensor under “Sensor, Crank Position”.

The crank-angle sensor’s job is to read a toothed reluctor on the crankshaft and feed precise engine speed and position data to the ECM. That signal lets the ECM control spark timing, injector sequencing and coordinate with the cam sensors for VVT-i. On these alloy V6 and V8 engines, the sensor mounts to the block and reads the crank directly, there’s no distributor to do the timing work, so this little sensor is mission-critical to smooth starts, clean idle and crisp throttle response.

• Typical symptoms when it’s unhappy: long crank or no-start, random stalling when hot, misfires, the tacho dropping out and the Check Engine light with P0335/P0339.
• Location: mounted to the engine block reading a reluctor on the crankshaft, access is usually from underneath with the undertray off.

There’s no scheduled replacement interval in Lexus service schedules, it’s a “replace on condition” item. As part of routine servicing, a workshop will often glance over the harness routing, check for oil seepage at the sensor O-ring, and make sure connectors aren’t heat-soaked or brittle near the exhaust. Keeping the area clean and dry helps the hall/magnetic pickup give a clean signal.

When replacement is needed, quality matters—OE or reputable aftermarket only. The job is straightforward: disconnect the battery, unplug the connector, remove the retaining bolt, twist and withdraw the sensor, lightly oil a new O-ring and seat the new unit squarely, then torque the bolt to factory spec (around 9 N·m is typical for Toyota/Lexus CKP fasteners). The air gap isn’t adjustable, correct fitment sets it automatically. Afterwards, clear fault codes, warm the engine and road test, the ECM will adapt without a special relearn. If issues persist, check for wiring damage, metal debris on the sensor tip, or a damaged reluctor ring. Given the critical role this sensor plays, continued driving with intermittent faults isn’t recommended, especially in Aussie and Kiwi summer heat.

Popular questions

Does the 2012 Lexus IS actually have a crank-angle sensor?
Yes. Lexus service documentation for the IS250/IS350/IS F specifies a crankshaft position (crank-angle) sensor and includes diagnostics like P0335. It’s a core input the ECM uses for timing and fuel control.

Where is the crank-angle sensor on a 2012 IS?
It’s mounted to the engine block, reading a reluctor on the crankshaft. On most variants it’s accessed from underneath after removing the undertray. Exact orientation varies slightly between the V6 and V8, but it’s always on the block at crank level.

Is there a maintenance interval for the crank-angle sensor?
No set interval. It’s monitored by the ECM and replaced if faulty. During regular services, a quick check for oil leaks, heat damage to the connector and tidy harness routing is worthwhile.