Parts for your 2016 Toyota Avensis-Crank angle sensor

2016 Toyota Avensis crank angle sensor — what it does and when to replace it

Based on technical documentation, the 2016 Toyota Avensis (T27 facelift) uses a crank angle sensor (commonly called the crankshaft position sensor or CKP) on all mainstream engines fitted to this model year, including the 1ZR-FAE and 2ZR-FAE petrols and the 1WW/2WW D-4D diesels. This is shown in Toyota Service Information (TIS) Avensis T27 Repair Manual sections for SFI/Engine Control where the “NE” crankshaft signal is specified, in the Avensis Electrical Wiring Diagram identifying the CKP circuit to the ECM, and by Toyota OBD-II diagnostics listing DTC P0335/P0339 for this vehicle. Independent references such as Haynes Avensis 2009–2018 and Autodata also document a CKP on these engines.

On a 2016 Avensis, the crank angle sensor is a critical input to the engine control module. It reads a toothed wheel on the crankshaft and tells the ECM exactly where the pistons are in their rotation. That timing data runs the whole show: spark timing on petrol engines, injection timing on both petrol and diesel, and synchronisation with the cam sensor so the engine fires cleanly and starts quickly. If the CKP drops out, the engine may crank without starting, stumble, or cut out, and it’ll usually log a fault code.

There’s no routine replacement interval for the CKP, but it’s smart to check it during servicing, especially on higher‑kilometre cars. A quick visual once-over goes a long way:

• Inspect the wiring and connector for oil intrusion, broken clips, or chafing.
• If accessible, wipe the sensor tip free of metal swarf that can build up on magnetic types.
• Scan for stored codes like P0335/P0339 after any no‑start or intermittent stall.

When replacement is needed, location varies by engine. On the 1ZR/2ZR petrols it’s typically at the front or side of the block near the crank pulley. On the 1WW/2WW diesels it’s usually down near the bellhousing. The job is usually straightforward: disconnect the battery, unplug the sensor, remove the retaining bolt, ease out the sensor, and refit with a light smear of clean engine oil on the O‑ring. Always use an OEM-quality part, route the loom exactly as the factory did, and torque the bolt to spec from the Toyota repair manual. After fitting, clear codes and perform an idle learn if required, most Avensis ECUs don’t need special programming for a CKP, but a short drive cycle lets trims settle.

Practical signs it’s time to act include extended cranking, random stalling at lights, tachometer dropouts, or a MIL with CKP-related codes. Sort those early and the Avensis will stay smooth, economical, and easy to live with across Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

Popular questions

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2016 Avensis?
On the 1ZR/2ZR petrol engines it’s commonly mounted on the front or side of the block near the crank pulley. On the 1WW/2WW diesels it’s typically down by the gearbox bellhousing, reading a reluctor on the flywheel. Access can vary, so a workshop manual or a quick look from underneath often helps.

Do you need to program the ECU after replacing the CKP?
Generally, no special coding is required on the 2016 Avensis. Fit the new sensor, clear any fault codes, and let the ECM relearn during a normal drive. If idle is unstable, run a brief idle learn procedure per the repair manual.

What are the symptoms of a failing crank angle sensor?
Hard starting, intermittent stalling, uneven idle, and the check engine light with codes like P0335 or P0339 are common. Some drivers notice the tacho dropping to zero just before the engine cuts out. If those pop up, inspect wiring first, then test or replace the sensor.