My 2007 ES350, 150,000 miles, will suddenly stall completely at any given time. If I disconnect the negative battery cable for a minute or two and reconnect it starts right back up and drives for another 30-ish miles. OBDII reads P0335. I replaced the crankshaft position sensor with a genuine Toyota sensor. The devil himself put it behind the AC compressor...Fast forward 185 miles later, car stalled again, exact same problem. So, I decided to take in to Lexus. Fortunately it stalled while they were testing it. They suggested that the crankshaft sensor (reluctor) wheel might be the issue and it would cost around $1200 to dig into the engine and inspect it. My question is: If the crankshaft sensor wheel is bad, wouldn't it always be bad and not let me drive 50-150 miles before it decides to stall? I'm thinking maybe an electrical issue, maybe some damaged wires that are making things go bonkers? Thanks for reading this far. Hopefully I can get some help.

 

Only way to properly diagnose this is scope the signal and monitor while you drive. Otherwise you're guessing. Can poke around the wires and connector see if anything breaks or looks damaged.

 

Thanks for the info. Which tool would i buy/rent to "scope the signal"? I've done a ton of DIY car repairs, but nothing like this.

 

You need a 'scope they range in price greatly, this one will get the job done although a more professional grade tool is better

You will need to physically tap into the crank signal wires either at the sensor at the ECU. If there is a problem with the "tone ring" you'll see a janky signal. Consider finding an independent shop to do this for you. Dealers are all about swapping parts and sending you our the door actual diagnostics is not their specialty.

 

Right on, thanks so much. This'll be a new adventure for sure!