A Guide to the Crankshaft Position Sensor for the 2013-2022 Toyota Avalon
Fix stalling and no-start problems by understanding your Avalon's crankshaft position sensor and choosing the right replacement.
- A failing crankshaft sensor on an Avalon commonly causes a no-start condition, stalling, or a rough running engine with a P0335 code.
- Denso is the original equipment (OE) supplier for Toyota; choosing their aftermarket sensor is a reliable and cost-effective option.
- Replacement can be difficult as the sensor is located behind the A/C compressor, increasing labor time and cost.
- Do not ignore symptoms like stalling, as this can become a serious safety risk while driving.
Is a Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor Causing Your Engine Problems?
A bad crankshaft position sensor can cause problems that seem major but are often fixed with one small part. Because this sensor is essential for engine timing, a faulty one can make your 2013-2022 Toyota Avalon run poorly or not at all. Symptoms often start small and get worse, so it's important to recognize them early. Ignoring the signs can lead to your car stalling in traffic or leaving you stranded.
🎬 Watch: 6 common symptoms of a bad crankshaft sensorChoosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor for Your Avalon
When replacing this sensor, you have options from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and various aftermarket brands. For your Toyota Avalon, the original sensor was likely made by Denso. Choosing a Denso-branded aftermarket part is the closest you can get to the original without paying dealership prices.
Aftermarket brands can be grouped into tiers:
- Premium Aftermarket (OEM-Equivalent): Brands like Denso, NGK/NTK, and Delphi are excellent choices. They are often OEM suppliers themselves and produce high-quality sensors that are reliable and built to last. Hitachi is another reputable brand in this category.
- Mid-Grade Aftermarket: Brands such as Standard Ignition (SMP) and Dorman offer a balance of price and quality. They are generally reliable, though some professional mechanics have noted occasional quality issues compared to premium brands.
- Economy Aftermarket: Brands like Walker Products, Holstein, and other lower-priced options can be tempting. However, for a sensor this critical, using a budget part can be risky. A cheap sensor might fail prematurely, forcing you to do the job all over again.
Pro Tip: Given that Denso is the likely OE supplier for Toyota, choosing their aftermarket sensor is a very safe and reliable choice that often costs less than the dealer part.
Cost of Replacing the Crankshaft Position Sensor
The cost can vary significantly based on whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional. The part itself is relatively inexpensive, but labor can add up, especially since the sensor can be difficult to access on the Avalon's V6 engine.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $24 - $155 |
| New OEM Part | $88 - $149 |
| Shop Labor | $201 - $295 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $289 - $444+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on a 2013-2022 Toyota Avalon?
On the Toyota Avalon with the 2GR-FE V6 engine, the crankshaft position sensor is located on the lower part of the engine, behind the A/C compressor. Accessing it often requires removing the front passenger-side wheel, an inner fender liner, and potentially loosening or removing the A/C compressor or alternator to gain clearance. This makes the replacement more difficult than on many other vehicles.
🎬 See this video for the exact sensor locationIs an OEM sensor really better than aftermarket for my Avalon?
For critical electronic sensors, OEM or an OEM-supplier brand like Denso is highly recommended for Toyotas. While many aftermarket brands are available, their quality can be inconsistent. A high-quality sensor from a brand like Denso, NGK, or Delphi ensures reliability and prevents you from having to replace the part again soon.
What is the most common trouble code for a bad crank sensor?
The most common diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a failing crankshaft position sensor is P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Malfunction). This code is set when the vehicle's computer loses the signal from the sensor. 🎬 Watch: Understanding the P0335 code on your Toyota You may also see misfire codes (P0300-P0306).
Can I just clean the sensor instead of replacing it?
While the sensor's tip is magnetic and can collect metallic debris, which may interfere with its signal, cleaning is not a reliable fix. If the sensor is failing internally due to heat or age, which is the most common reason, cleaning it will not solve the problem. Replacement is the only permanent solution for a faulty sensor.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 90919-05070 90919-A5004 90919-A5003 90080-19014
The 2013-2022 Toyota Avalon typically uses a three-wire magnetic resistant element (MRE) or Hall-effect sensor. It is mounted to the engine block and reads the rotation of the crankshaft to provide a signal to the ECU.
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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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