OBD Guide

P0021

ACamshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)

P0021 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: ACamshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2). Common causes: malfunction of the vvt clutch of the intake camshaft, dirty or faulty vvt control valve. Estimated repair cost: $167–500.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$167–500 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Unstable idle speed
  • Reduced engine power
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Difficulty starting the engine
  • Metallic knock in the timing belt area
  • Check Engine Light Is On

Causes

  • Malfunction of the VVT clutch of the intake camshaft
  • Dirty or faulty VVT control valve
  • Low engine oil pressure
  • Using poor quality or unsuitable oil
  • Stretched or worn timing chain
  • Camshaft position sensor malfunction
  • Clogged oil channels of the VVT system

How to Fix

  1. Check the level and quality of the engine oil, replace if necessary
  2. Diagnose bank 2 camshaft position sensor
  3. Check the operation of the VVT control valve using a scanner
  4. Measure the oil pressure in the system
  5. Clean or replace VVT control valve
  6. Check the condition of the timing chain and tensioner
  7. If necessary, replace the VVT clutch of the intake camshaft
  8. Clean the oil channels of the phase change system
  9. Reset error codes and take a test drive

Related codes

Error P0021 by Vehicle Brand

FAQ

What does the P0021 code mean?

P0021 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: ACamshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 2)

What causes a P0021 error code?

The most common causes of P0021 include: Malfunction of the VVT clutch of the intake camshaft; Dirty or faulty VVT control valve; Low engine oil pressure; Using poor quality or unsuitable oil.

How do I fix a P0021 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix P0021: Check the level and quality of the engine oil, replace if necessary. Diagnose bank 2 camshaft position sensor. Check the operation of the VVT control valve using a scanner. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with P0021?

Limited driving only, diagnose soon

How much does it cost to fix P0021?

The estimated repair cost for P0021 is $167–500. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat