Engine Camshaft Position Sensor Guide for the 2004-2006 Lexus RX330
Fix stalling, rough idling, or starting issues on your RX330 by understanding and choosing the right camshaft position sensor.
- Your RX330 has two camshaft sensors; the rear one (Bank 1) is much harder to replace than the front one (Bank 2).
- Denso is the original equipment manufacturer and the most recommended brand for reliability.
- Common fault codes are P0340 (Bank 1) and P0345 (Bank 2), which point to a circuit malfunction.
- Symptoms like a no-start or stalling can be serious, so it's best to address a failing sensor promptly.
Understanding Camshaft Position Sensors in Your RX330
The 3.3L V6 engine (known as the 3MZ-FE) in your 2004-2006 Lexus RX330 uses two camshaft position sensors. One is for the front cylinder bank (Bank 2), which is easier to see and access. The other is for the rear cylinder bank (Bank 1), which is near the firewall and harder to reach. These sensors work with the crankshaft position sensor to give the ECU a complete picture of the engine's timing. When one of these sensors starts to fail, it can cause a range of noticeable problems.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor: Brand Quality Tiers
When replacing a critical sensor on a Lexus, the quality of the part matters. Sticking with brands known for reliability is a smart move to avoid doing the job twice.
Pro Tip: Denso is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for many Toyota and Lexus parts, including sensors. Choosing a Denso sensor is the closest you can get to buying the part from a Lexus dealer, often at a lower price. It is the highly recommended choice for this repair.
🎬 See this guide on whether to clean or replace your sensors.- Tier 1 (OEM / Highly Recommended): Denso. As the likely original supplier, Denso sensors offer the best fit, performance, and longevity.
- Tier 2 (Reputable Aftermarket): Brands like NGK (NTK), Delphi, and Standard Ignition (SMP) are well-regarded in the industry. They are generally reliable alternatives if Denso is not available. Beck Arnley often re-packages OEM parts, so they can also be a good choice.
- Tier 3 (Economy Brands): Brands like Dorman, URO Parts, and other lower-priced options are available. While they are more budget-friendly, their long-term reliability can be inconsistent for sensitive electronics on a Lexus. Using them can be a gamble, and it might be wiser to invest in a higher-tier brand for a critical component like this.
Warning: Be cautious of extremely cheap, unbranded sensors from online marketplaces. Forum discussions often highlight that these parts can fail quickly or be dead-on-arrival, causing more frustration and costing more in the long run.
Cost of Replacement
The cost can vary significantly based on the brand of the part and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional mechanic.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Lexus Dealer) | $85 - $150 per sensor |
| New Aftermarket (Tier 1-2) | $45 - $75 per sensor |
| New Aftermarket (Tier 3) | $27 - $45 per sensor |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $250 (depending on which sensor) |
Note: The rear sensor (Bank 1) is more difficult to access and will have a higher labor cost than the front sensor (Bank 2).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many camshaft position sensors does my 2005 RX330 have?
Your 2005 Lexus RX330 has two camshaft position sensors because it has a V6 engine with two cylinder banks. One is for Bank 1 (the rear bank, near the firewall) and the other is for Bank 2 (the front bank).
Are the Bank 1 and Bank 2 sensors the same part?
No, they often have different part numbers. It is critical to verify you are purchasing the correct sensor for the specific bank that is showing a fault code. 🎬 Watch: How to fix a P0345 Bank 2 circuit malfunction. The OEM part numbers are typically 90919-05026 (or its replacement 90080-19014) and may be used for both locations, but always confirm with the parts supplier for your specific vehicle.
Where are the sensors located?
The Bank 2 sensor is on the front (radiator side) of the engine, on the end of the cylinder head, and is relatively easy to access. 🎬 Watch: How to replace the Bank 2 sensor in 30 minutes. The Bank 1 sensor is in a similar position on the rear cylinder head, against the firewall. Accessing the Bank 1 sensor is more difficult and may require removing the front-left wheel and accessing it from the wheel well.
Are there any recalls for this part?
There are no specific recalls for the camshaft position sensor on the 2004-2006 Lexus RX330. There was a recall for the crankshaft pulley on some 2004-2005 models, which is a different part but also related to engine operation.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 90919-05026 90080-19014
The 3.3L 3MZ-FE V6 engine uses two sensors, one for each camshaft (Bank 1 and Bank 2). They are magnetic resistance element (MRE) type sensors that read the rotation of the camshaft timing pulley.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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