Parts for your 2020 Isuzu D-max-Crank angle sensor

2020 Isuzu D‑MAX crank angle sensor: what it does and how to look after it

The 2020 Isuzu D‑MAX absolutely uses a crank angle sensor (also called a crankshaft position sensor, CKP). This is documented in the Isuzu D‑MAX (MY20/RG) Workshop Manual under Engine Control/ECM sections that cover the Crankshaft Position Sensor and fault codes P0335/P0336, as well as in Isuzu 4JJ‑series and RZ4E engine service information and wiring diagrams. Modern common‑rail diesel control (e.g., Bosch EDC17/MD1 used on these engines) relies on a CKP and a cam sensor to manage injection timing, rail pressure and synchronisation—so the sensor is both relevant and fitted.

On the 3.0‑litre 4JJ3 and 1.9‑litre RZ4E engines, the crank angle sensor feeds the ECU with precise crank speed and angle data. That lets the ECU fire injectors at the right moment, detect misfires, regulate idle stability, and run DPF and EGR strategies cleanly. If the signal drops out, starting becomes hard or impossible, the MIL will light up, and the ECU will log a CKP fault. It’s a small part with a big job.

As a service item, the CKP isn’t something that gets replaced on a schedule. It’s designed to be maintenance‑free. However, it benefits from a quick visual during routine servicing:

• Check the harness and connector for chafing, oil contamination, or water ingress, especially around the back of the block or near the crank pulley (location varies by engine variant).
• If any drivability issues show up—extended crank, random stall, uneven idle, or MIL with P0335/P0336—scan the ECU first, then inspect wiring before blaming the sensor.
• If replacing, use a quality OEM‑equivalent sensor. Disconnect the battery earth, clean the mounting bore, lightly oil the O‑ring, route the loom away from heat and rotating parts, and tighten the retaining bolt to workshop‑manual spec. Clear codes and verify a clean CKP signal on a road test.

Tech references for this guidance include: Isuzu D‑MAX 2020 Workshop Manual (Engine Control/ECM, DTC list P0335/P0336), Isuzu 4JJ3 and RZ4E engine service wiring diagrams, and Bosch common‑rail diesel control documentation noting mandatory CKP/CMP inputs for synchronised injection.

Popular question: Does the 2020 D‑MAX have a crank angle sensor, and where is it?

Yes. It’s mounted to the engine block reading a toothed wheel on the crankshaft. On many 4JJ‑series engines it’s commonly positioned near the rear of the block by the bellhousing, some variants place it near the crank pulley. A quick look at the workshop manual or a wiring diagram for the exact engine code will pinpoint it.

Popular question: What are the symptoms of a failing crank angle sensor on a 2020 D‑MAX?

Owners may notice long cranking, intermittent no‑start when hot, sudden stalling, uneven idle, or the MIL on. The ECU often logs P0335 or P0336. Because wiring and connectors are frequent culprits, a proper scan and visual check should come before swapping parts.

Popular question: Is the crank angle sensor a routine service item on a 2020 D‑MAX?

No. It’s not scheduled for periodic replacement. It should be inspected during servicing for loom damage or contamination, and only replaced if testing confirms a fault. Using a genuine or OEM‑quality sensor and following the manual’s torque and fitment notes helps ensure long life.