Parts for your 2018 Lexus Is-Crank angle sensor

2018 Lexus IS crank angle sensor (crankshaft position sensor)

Yes, the 2018 Lexus IS is fitted with a crank angle sensor, commonly listed by Lexus/Toyota as the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP). Technical references that document this include the Lexus IS Repair Manual (Toyota TIS) under Engine/Hybrid System – Crankshaft Position Sensor (NE signal), the Lexus Electrical Wiring Diagram for 2018 IS models, OEM parts catalogues showing CKP sensors for the 8AR‑FTS 2.0L turbo and 2GR‑FKS/FSE 3.5L V6 engines, and standard OBD‑II diagnostic sections describing DTCs P0335–P0339 for CKP circuits on these engines.

On the 2018 Lexus IS, the crank angle sensor is the quiet achiever that keeps timing spot‑on. It monitors a toothed wheel on the crankshaft and feeds precise engine speed and position data (the NE signal) to the ECU. That lets the ECU fire the spark and inject the fuel at exactly the right moment, whether it’s a relaxed cruise down the motorway or a brisk overtake. Without a healthy sensor, the car can be hard to start, stumble, or even stall. It’s also the key reference for sync with the cam sensors, so it underpins VVT control and smooth idle.

Good news: it’s not a routine replacement item on the service schedule. During normal servicing, it’s worth a quick look for oil contamination, heat‑baked wiring, or a loose connector low on the engine. If faults crop up, common warning signs include long cranking, sudden cut‑out, rough running, and the check engine light with codes like P0335. Because the sensor reads a fine toothed reluctor, even minor metal debris stuck to the tip can upset the signal.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent tech: disconnect the battery, access the sensor low on the block/timing cover, remove the single retaining bolt, and swap in a quality OEM‑spec unit with a fresh O‑ring lightly oiled. Harness routing should be clipped away from hot exhaust bits and pulleys. There’s no special programming, clear the codes and confirm clean crank and cam sync with a scan tool. If it’s been swimming in oil, track down the source rather than masking the symptom. For anyone chasing intermittent stumbles, a wiggle‑test of the connector and a live‑data check of engine speed during crank can quickly point to the CKP. Sorted right, the IS will fire up first twist and pull cleanly through the revs.

• Typical symptoms: no‑start, misfire, stalling, limp mode, P0335–P0339.
• Preventative tip: keep connectors clean/dry, fix oil leaks that can soak the sensor.
• Best practice: use OEM or high‑quality equivalent, verify with scan‑tool data.

Technical sources referenced:

• Lexus IS (2018) Repair Manual – Engine/Hybrid System: Crankshaft Position Sensor (NE) procedures and DTC diagnostics.
• Lexus IS (2018) Electrical Wiring Diagram – CKP circuit and ECU pinout.
• OBD‑II DTC documentation for Toyota/Lexus (P0335–P0339: CKP circuit faults).
• Lexus/Toyota OEM parts catalogues listing CKP sensors for 8AR‑FTS and 2GR‑FKS/FSE engines.

FAQs

Does the 2018 Lexus IS have a crank angle sensor and where is it?
Yes. It’s mounted low on the engine, reading the crankshaft’s reluctor wheel through the block/timing cover area. Exact position varies by engine, but expect it down low near the front of the engine where access is from underneath with the undertray off.

What fault codes point to a bad crank angle sensor?
Common codes are P0335, P0336, and related circuit/performance variants. If those show alongside long cranking or a sudden stall, the CKP, its wiring, or the reluctor may be at fault. Don’t forget to check for oil ingress and damaged loom sections.

Does a replacement CKP need programming?
No special programming. Fit the new sensor, ensure correct harness routing, clear codes, and verify with a scan tool. The ECU will read it immediately and handle timing as normal.