Parts for your 2018 Toyota Avensis-Crank angle sensor

2018 Toyota Avensis crank-angle sensor — what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2018 Toyota Avensis is fitted with a crank-angle sensor (more commonly called a crankshaft position or CKP sensor). This is documented in Toyota’s Avensis T27 Repair Manual (2015–2018) under Engine/Hybrid System diagnostics for DTC P0335/P0339 “Crankshaft Position Sensor” and in the Avensis Electrical Wiring Diagram showing the CKP (NE+/NE–) connected to the ECM. Toyota’s European Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2018 Avensis petrol (1ZR-FAE/2ZR-FAE) and diesel (1WW/2WW) engines also lists a “Sensor, Crank Position” for these variants.

On the 2018 Avensis, the crank-angle sensor is the timekeeper for the engine. It tracks the exact rotational position and speed of the crankshaft so the ECM can fire injectors and spark (on petrol engines) at precisely the right moments. Without that clean signal, the car may crank a long time, stumble or stall, or drop into limp-home. Toyota’s control strategy relies on both crank and cam signals for accurate timing and knock control, so this little sensor punches well above its weight.

Location varies by engine: on the 1.6/1.8 Valvematic petrols (1ZR/2ZR) it’s typically mounted at the timing chain cover on the block, on the BMW-sourced diesels (1WW/2WW) it’s commonly near the bellhousing reading the flywheel/reluctor. Either way, access is usually from below with the undertray off, under the front of the car.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it deserves a look whenever the Avensis is in for a major service. If the vehicle logs codes like P0335/P0339, has hard starting when hot, random stalling at lights, a dead tacho while cranking, or an intermittent no-start, the crank sensor and its wiring are prime suspects.

• Quick health checks: inspect the connector for oil ingress or corrosion, ensure the harness isn’t chafing on the block, and check for metallic debris stuck to the sensor tip on engines that use a magnetic pickup.
• Replacement tips: use OEM-quality parts, disconnect the battery, keep the mounting face clean, and route the loom exactly as factory. Most Avensis ECUs don’t need a special relearn—clear the codes, start, and let it idle up to temperature.
• Prevention: fix any front crank seal or timing cover oil leaks promptly, as oil can soften connectors and attract grime that distorts the signal.

A competent home mechanic with axle stands and a basic socket set can usually swap a CKP in under an hour, but if there’s any doubt about diagnosis, a shop with a scope can confirm signal quality before parts are thrown at it.

Where is the crank-angle sensor on a 2018 Avensis?
On 1ZR/2ZR petrol engines, it’s typically at the lower timing cover on the block, accessed from under the front after removing the engine undertray. On 1WW/2WW diesels, it’s commonly at the bellhousing area reading the flywheel. A quick check of the engine code on the build plate helps pinpoint the exact spot.

What are the signs the crank-angle sensor is failing?
Common signs include long crank/no start (especially when hot), sudden stalling at idle or when coasting, misfires with no obvious cause, a dead or jumpy rev counter during cranking, and DTCs like P0335 or P0339. Because symptoms can mimic fuel or ignition faults, scoped signal checks or live data are handy to confirm.

Can it be cleaned, or does it need replacement?
If the issue is light metallic fuzz on the tip or a grimy connector, a careful clean and reseat can restore a good signal. If the sensor is cracked, oil-soaked internally, has high resistance, or produces a weak/no waveform, replacement is the go. Always rule out damaged wiring before condemning the sensor.