Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Variable Valve Timing Sensor (ES300, GS430, LS430, RX300 & SC430)
The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) sensor consists of a signal plate and pick-up coil. On GS430, LS430 and SC430, signal plate has one tooth on its outer circumference, and is mounted on camshaft. On ES300 and RX300, signal plate has three teeth on its outer circumference, and is mounted on camshaft. On all models, when camshafts rotate, protrusion on signal plate and air gap on pick-up coil changes, causing fluctuations in magnetic field and generating an electromotive force in pick-up coil. VVT sensor provides a feedback signal to ECM in order to control intake valve timing. See VARIABLE VALVE TIMING SENSOR LOCATION table.
| Application | Location |
|---|---|
| ES300 & RX300 | Mounted On Outer Corner Of Each Cylinder Head, Just Below Valve Cover (Oil Filler Cap End) |
| GS430, LS430 & SC430 | Top Of Engine, Mounted On Intake Side Of Each Cylinder Head |
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.