Parts for your 2015 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Camshaft sensor

2015 Toyota Vitz/Yaris Camshaft Sensor

Based on Toyota’s 2015 Vitz/Yaris repair literature and wiring diagrams, the model range equipped with 1KR-FE (1.0L), 1NR-FE (1.3L, Dual VVT-i) and 1NZ-FE (1.5L) engines uses a camshaft position sensor. It’s identified as the “Camshaft Position Sensor” (CMP) in Toyota Repair Manual and EWD publications, and it appears as “Sensor, Cam Position” in the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for the above engines. Independent technical references such as Denso/OE catalogues, Autodata, and Haynes manuals for this generation also list a CMP for these drivetrains. So yes—this vehicle is fitted with a camshaft sensor and it’s an essential input for engine management.

The camshaft sensor on a 2015 Toyota Vitz/Yaris tells the engine control module exactly where the intake and exhaust camshafts are in their rotation. Working alongside the crankshaft sensor, it helps the ECU fire injectors and spark at the right moment and accurately control VVT-i. That means easier starts, smoother idle, better fuel economy, and cleaner emissions. If the sensor signal is missing or erratic, the car can struggle to start, run roughly, or drop into a limp mode and light the check engine lamp.

During regular servicing, the cam sensor isn’t a scheduled replacement item, but it’s smart to give it a quick once-over. Check the connector for oil intrusion or brittle wiring, make sure the harness isn’t chafed near the cylinder head, and wipe away any grime around the sensor body. Good, clean engine oil helps too—gunky oil can upset cam timing control, which can look like a sensor fault.

Common signs of a dodgy cam sensor include:

• Hard starting, misfiring, or stalling at idle
• Sluggish performance and higher fuel use
• Check Engine Light with codes like P0340/P0341

Replacement on these engines is generally straightforward. Disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor on the cylinder head, remove its small retaining bolt, swap the O-ring if supplied, and fit the new unit. Always tighten to factory spec and clear any fault codes, then road-test. If a new sensor doesn’t fix the drama, have the wiring and timing checked—cam/crank correlation issues or stretched timing components can mimic sensor faults.

For reliability, stick with quality OE-equivalent (often Denso) parts. A basic scan-tool check of live data (cam/crank sync status) is handy before and after replacement. Most workshops in Australia and New Zealand will sort this in under an hour.

Popular questions about 2015 Toyota Vitz/Yaris camshaft sensors

Does the 2015 Vitz/Yaris actually have a camshaft sensor?
Yes. Toyota’s repair manual and wiring diagrams for the 1KR-FE, 1NR-FE and 1NZ-FE engines specify a camshaft position sensor used for sequential injection, ignition timing, and VVT-i control. Parts catalogues list it as “Sensor, Cam Position.”

What symptoms point to a failing camshaft sensor on this model?
Typical signs include longer cranking, rough idle, poor acceleration, higher fuel use, and a Check Engine Light (often with P0340 or P0341). If these show up, a quick scan and basic wiring check will usually pinpoint the issue.

Should the camshaft sensor be replaced as routine maintenance?
It’s not a routine replacement item. Inspect the connector and wiring during services, keep up with oil changes, and only replace the sensor if diagnostics confirm a fault. Quality OE-equivalent parts are recommended for best results.