Parts for your 2013 Toyota Land cruiser-Crank angle sensor

2013 Toyota Land Cruiser crank angle sensor (crankshaft position sensor)

Yes, the 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser uses a crank angle sensor. In Toyota’s service literature it’s typically called the Crankshaft Position Sensor (NE signal). This is documented in the Toyota Repair Manual and Electrical Wiring Diagram for 200 Series platforms (VDJ200 1VD‑FTV diesel, URJ/UZJ/US-spec 3UR‑FE petrol). DENSO common-rail diesel documentation also references the NE sensor as the primary engine speed/position input. So, whether it’s the Aussie 1VD‑FTV twin-turbo diesel V8 or a petrol V8 variant, the vehicle is fitted with this sensor and the engine control module relies on it.

On this Land Cruiser, the crank angle sensor tracks the exact position and speed of the crankshaft. The engine computer uses that info to time fuel injection and, on petrol models, spark. On the 1VD‑FTV diesel, it works with the cam sensors to keep injection events bang-on under load, towing, or crawling off-road. If it goes out of whack, you’ll cop hard starting, misfires, limp mode, or a no‑start with the check engine light and codes like P0335 or P0339.

It’s not a routine “replace at X km” service item, but it is worth a look as part of scheduled servicing—especially on vehicles that do heavy touring, beach work, or creek crossings.

• Inspection tips: Check the sensor connector and wiring for oil wicking, rub-through near the front cover or bellhousing, and corrosion from water or salt. Make sure the harness clips are intact so it can’t flap against the block.
• Location notes: On the 1VD‑FTV diesel it’s mounted near the crank pulley at the front cover. On petrol V8s it’s typically at the side of the block aligned to the crank reluctor.
• Replacement advice: Always match the part number to your VIN. Genuine or quality OE-equivalent sensors are best—cheapies can give flaky signals. Replace the O‑ring/seal, keep the mounting face clean, and don’t lever on the sensor nose. Refit with the correct seating depth, most models don’t need any learn procedure, but it’s smart to clear codes and check live data (engine speed signal) with a scan tool.
• Preventative care: After muddy or salty water work, rinse the engine bay (cool engine), and keep the area around the sensor free of caked debris. If you notice intermittent stalling or a sudden drop in the tacho, scan it before it strands you.

For owners chasing reliability in remote NZ or Aussie conditions, a quick look at this sensor and its loom each service pays off. If in doubt, test with an oscilloscope or swap in a known-good OE unit rather than chasing ghosts.

Popular questions

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2013 Land Cruiser?
On the 1VD‑FTV diesel V8 it’s positioned at the front timing cover reading a toothed wheel on the crank. Petrol V8 variants have it mounted on the side of the block near the crank centreline. Access is straightforward with basic hand tools, disconnect the battery, release the loom clip, unbolt, and lift it straight out to avoid damaging the O‑ring.

What symptoms point to a failing crank angle sensor?
Common signs include hard starting (hot or cold), random stalling, rough idle, lack of power, and the check engine light with codes such as P0335/P0339. The tacho may flicker or drop out. Because these symptoms overlap with cam sensor and fuel issues, a scan-tool check of live RPM and a wiring inspection helps pinpoint the culprit.

Should it be replaced as preventative maintenance?
It’s not a scheduled replacement item. On high‑kilometre or remote‑tour rigs, many techs will replace the sensor proactively if there’s a history of intermittent signal faults or after water ingress. Otherwise, inspect each service and act on any stored or pending codes.