Crankshaft Sensor
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 9 other vehicles, including the 2003 Lexus SC 430, 2003 Lexus RX 300, 2003 Lexus LX 470, 2003 Lexus LS 430, and 2003 Lexus IS 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Crankshaft sensor consists of a magnet, iron core and pick-up coil. On ES300, GX470, RX300 and SC430, sensor is located at front of crankshaft, near crankshaft pulley. On IS300, GS300, GS430, LS430 and LX470, it is installed on oil pump body. A signal plate (rotor) is mounted on crankshaft pulley. As crankshaft rotates, protrusions on signal plate pass near pick-up coil. This induces AC voltage in pick-up coil. ECM senses this voltage signal and uses it to determine engine speed and crankshaft position.
The ECM may use input signals for determining ignition timing (spark advance) and for controlling fuel injection system, idle speed control system, heated oxygen sensor system and intake air control valve system.