Where is Toyota Yaris speed sensor located?
The Toyota Yaris speed sensor is typically located on the transmission or transaxle of the vehicle. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the rotational speed of the wheels and providing this information to the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU) for various functions, such as anti-lock braking, traction control, and speedometer operation.
Understanding the Toyota Yaris Speed Sensor
The Toyota Yaris, like most modern vehicles, uses a speed sensor to detect the rotational speed of the wheels. This information is then used by the vehicle's computer system to perform various functions, including:
- Calculating the vehicle's speed for the speedometer display
- Monitoring wheel speed for anti-lock braking system (ABS) operation
- Controlling traction and stability systems
- Providing data for the engine control module to optimize fuel efficiency and performance
The speed sensor is typically located on the transmission or transaxle, as this is the most convenient location to measure the rotational speed of the wheels. The sensor is usually a simple electromagnetic device that generates a signal based on the rotation of a toothed wheel or reluctor ring attached to the transmission or transaxle.
Diagnosing Speed Sensor Issues
If the Toyota Yaris speed sensor fails or becomes faulty, it can cause a variety of problems, such as:
- Inaccurate speedometer readings
- Erratic or inconsistent vehicle speed
- Activation of the check engine light or other warning indicators
- Improper operation of the ABS or traction control systems
In the event of a suspected speed sensor issue, it's important to have the vehicle diagnosed by a qualified automotive technician. They can use diagnostic tools to identify the specific problem and recommend the appropriate repair or replacement of the speed sensor.
Where is the speed sensor located in a Toyota Yaris?
There are usually wheel speed sensors at every wheel on Toyota Yaris's installed with anti-lock brakes, either integrated into the wheel hub assembly or bolted to the steering knuckle. The sensor itself is a magnetic pickup that determines the position of a rotating trigger wheel.
What happens when the speed sensor goes bad?
When a speed sensor goes bad, the vehicle's computer receives incorrect information about its speed, leading to symptoms like a malfunctioning speedometer, erratic or harsh gear shifts, the check engine light turning on, and cruise control failure. This can also cause issues with other systems that rely on speed data, such as the ABS or anti-lock braking system.
Common symptoms of a bad speed sensor
- Erratic or broken speedometer: The most obvious sign is a speedometer that jumps around, doesn't register any speed, or displays inaccurate information.
- Check Engine Light: The "check engine" light may come on at random times, or more frequently when accelerating, indicating a potential issue with the speed sensor.
- Poor transmission performance: Gears may shift harshly, late, or not at all. The vehicle may feel sluggish or hesitate during acceleration.
- Cruise control failure: The cruise control may fail to engage, disengage unexpectedly, or not maintain a set speed.
- ABS warning light: The ABS warning light may stay on continuously, as this system also relies on speed sensor data to function correctly.
- Reduced fuel efficiency: Some vehicles may experience reduced fuel economy because the engine's control unit is not optimizing performance without accurate speed data.
- Difficult braking: In some cases, you might experience harder braking when coasting.
Where is the Toyota speed sensor located?
The Toyota speed sensor is typically located on the transmission, often near the top and on the driver's side. Some models may require removing the battery or airbox for access. The exact location and access method vary by model and year, so you may need to consult specific instructions for your vehicle.
This video shows how to replace the speed sensor on a Toyota Corolla: 1mTRQYouTube · Aug 7, 2025
General location
- On the transmission: The speed sensor reads the transmission's output speed, so it is mounted directly on the transmission casing.
- Driver's side: It is commonly found on the driver's side of the transmission.
- Near the top: Access is often easier from the top of the engine bay.
This video shows how to replace the speed sensor on a Toyota Camry: 58sTRQYouTube · Dec 29, 2023
How to access the sensor
- Remove air intake components: On some models, you will need to remove the air filter housing and air intake tube to get to the sensor.
- Remove the battery: In other cases, particularly on Camry models, the battery and battery tray must be removed first.
- Lift the vehicle: For some trucks, the sensor is located on the rear tailshaft of the transmission, accessible from underneath.
This video shows how to replace the speed sensor on a Toyota 4Runner: 59sRoy's Garage 808YouTube · Jun 26, 2020
Additional sensors
- Wheel speed sensors (ABS sensors): These are a different type of speed sensor, located at each wheel, often behind the brake rotor. They are used by the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and have a separate location from the transmission speed sensor.
- Rear ABS sensor: Some models have a rear ABS speed sensor that is mounted on the rear axle.
What is the most common problem with the Toyota Yaris?
Toyota Yaris Common Problems and Solutions
- Drivers Side Window Failure (2nd Gen) Problem:
- Brake Failure (All 2nd Gen Models) Problem:
- Gearbox changing problems. Problem:
- Rear Wheel bearing failure. Problem:
- Air conditioning failure. Problem:
- DPF warning light. Problem:
- Damaged Rear Seatbelt. Problem:
- Power Steering Failure.
