Parts for your 2021 Toyota C-hr-Crank angle sensor

2021 Toyota C-HR crank angle sensor (crankshaft position sensor)

Technical sources confirm the 2021 Toyota C-HR is fitted with a crank angle sensor, more commonly called a crankshaft position (CKP) sensor. Toyota service literature for the AX10/AX50 series C-HR (covering the 2.0‑litre M20A‑FKS, 1.2‑litre 8NR‑FTS in some markets, and 1.8‑litre hybrid 2ZR‑FXE) shows the CKP sensor as a key input for the engine ECU, and the diagnostics include DTCs such as P0335/P0339 for this sensor. Toyota Electrical Wiring Diagrams and the Genuine Parts Catalogue also list the CKP sensor for these engines, so it’s very much relevant to the 2021 C‑HR.

On this model, the crank angle sensor tracks the crankshaft’s exact position and speed. The ECU uses that signal to time spark and fuel injection, coordinate VVT‑i operation, and verify cam timing against the cam sensor. Without a clean CKP signal, the engine won’t know when to fire, leading to hard starts, misfires, or a no‑start. It’s a solid‑state Hall‑effect or magnetic pickup mounted low on the block near the crank pulley or transmission bellhousing area, reading a toothed reluctor on the crank.

As part of routine servicing, there’s no set replacement interval for the C‑HR’s crank angle sensor, it’s designed to last the life of the vehicle. What makes sense is periodic inspection of the harness and connector for oil contamination, heat damage, or chafing, especially if there’s been an oil leak at the front crank seal. If the check engine light pops on with a CKP‑related code, or the engine shows these behaviours, the sensor and wiring deserve a once‑over:

• Intermittent no‑start or long crank when hot
• Stumbling, misfire, or sudden stall under the bonnet
• Tachometer dropouts, poor fuel economy, or limp mode

Replacement is straightforward: disconnect the battery negative, raise the front safely, unplug the sensor, remove the retaining bolt, and ease the sensor out. Fit the new unit with a fresh O‑ring lightly oiled, seat it squarely, and tighten to the factory spec. Clearing codes and road‑testing is good practice, a separate relearn is typically not required on Toyota ECUs if timing components are correct. Genuine or high‑quality aftermarket parts help avoid false triggers. If the symptoms persist after replacement, a technician should scope the signal and confirm the reluctor ring and wiring integrity before chasing anything else.

Popular questions about the 2021 Toyota C‑HR crank angle sensor

Where is the crank angle sensor on a 2021 Toyota C‑HR?
The sensor sits low on the engine block, reading a toothed wheel on the crankshaft. On the M20A‑FKS it’s typically near the front of the engine by the crank pulley, on hybrid and 1.2‑litre variants it may sit closer to the bellhousing. Access is usually from underneath with the splash shield off.

What are the symptoms of a failing crank angle sensor on a C‑HR?
Common signs include long cranking, intermittent no‑start when hot, random stalling, rough running, and a check engine light with codes like P0335 or P0339. If the signal drops out, the ECU can’t time spark or fuel properly, so drivability goes downhill quickly.

Does the C‑HR need an ECU relearn after replacing the crank angle sensor?
Generally, no special relearn is needed. Clear the codes, confirm there are no oil leaks on the connector, and take a road test. If issues remain, inspect wiring and verify cam/crank correlation rather than repeating the sensor swap.