4E-FTE Sensor Recommendations
Last updated Dec 2024
Here is a list of cheap, widely available and reliable sensor recommendations with part numbers which should fit most 4E-FTE engine, please check the thread sizes on your OEM sensors to confirm fitment. If you spot any errors or want to suggest any other parts get in touch and I'll update the page.
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
Bosch 0 280 130 026 (0280130026) engine coolant temperature sensor M12x1.5
Link ECU users use Std Bosch NCT for calibration
This is a direct replacement for most 4E-FTE engines.
If you have a later model 97.04-99 engine then you might have the 3 pin coolant temp sensor rather than the 2 pin. The 3rd pin is for the gauge temperature and replacing this sensor for a Bosch will remove your gauge temperature.
My solution for this is either drive the dash temp with a PWM output or move the stock temp sensor to the radiator fan switch port using an adapter (I sell these so get in touch to purchase) and use only the gauge temp pin. We must now ECU output to control the radiator fan relay instead of the temperature switch as it will be removed.
Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor
OEM 4E-FTE temp sensor or Bosch 0 280 130 085 (0280130085) intake air temperature sensor
You can use the OEM sensor as it works pretty well aside from being a bit slow to respond.
Alternatively you can fit a Bosch sensor. You will need to have a port welded onto intercooler piping, some people mount these a few inches before the throttle body with the air passing through the hole and past the exposed element.
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
Bosch 0 280 122 001 (0280122001) variable throttle position sensor
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you have a naturally aspirated (N/A) 4E/5E engine or a factory Automatic 4E-FTE then it's likely you may already have a variable TPS sensor. If you have a factory manual 4E-FTE engine then you will need a variable TPS sensor. Above is the sensor I recommend when replacing the stock ON/OFF TPS sensor on 4E-FTE engines. It's not a direct fit and requires an adapter to mount which we've developed along side Dyna Tune.
Buy the EP Wiring/Dyna Tune sensor mount here
3 Bar MAP Sensor
Bosch 0 261 230 119 (0261230119) 3 Bar MAP Sensor
This sensor is very affordable and will read up to 2 Bar of positive boost pressure which should be sufficient for most Starlet builds. Easy to mount with the single bolt hole. An external MAP sensor is only required if your ECU doesn't come with one built in.
Knock sensor
Bosch 0 261 231 006 (0261231006) wideband knock sensor
I recommend that most people replace the stock 4E-FTE knock sensor with this common Bosch wideband sensor if moving to a standalone ECU. These are not a direct swap as the stock sensor is threaded, however they can be fitted to the stock location using a Toyota threaded adapter and nut.
The purpose of this information is to provide general guidance and information only. Although every effort is made to ensure that the content is accurate, EP Wiring cannot accept any liability whatsoever for any inaccuracy contained within it, nor for any damage or loss, direct or indirect, which may be suffered as a result of any reliance placed upon the information provided, whether arising in contract, tort or in any other way. Advice should always be obtained from your ECU manufacturer or tuner before committing to a specific action.