P0021: Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2)
22 vehicles · 10 makes · $50-$5,000 repair
Most Reported On
P0021 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2).” P0021 means the engine computer detected that the intake camshaft on bank 2 is timed too far advanced and won't return to its commanded position. Most modern engines use variable valve timing (VVT), where an oil-pressure-driven actuator rotates the camshaft to optimize power and efficiency; the PCM compares the camshaft's actual position to its target. When the cam stays over-advanced beyond an acceptable limit, this code sets. Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one. You may notice rough idle, reduced performance, or lower fuel economy. This code is most commonly reported on 2015-2023 Ford Mustang (GT, GT Premium, Bullitt, Mach 1), 2014-2023 Jeep Cherokee (Altitude, Latitude, Latitude Plus, Sport), and 2007-2020 Toyota Sienna, plus 19 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $50 to $5,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 26 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0021, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (22)
5.0L Coyote Engine Tick/Knock Noise at Idle
5.0L Coyote Cam Phaser Tick/Rattle
Internal timing-chain-driven water pump failure leading to coolant-in-oil and possible engine destruction
3.5L Duratec Cam Phaser Rattle
3.5L EcoBoost Primary Timing Chain Stretch — P0016 and Cold-Start Rattle
Cam Phaser Rattle and Timing Chain Noise on 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost
Cam Phaser (Variable Cam Timing) Rattle on 3.5L EcoBoost Causing Cold-Start Knock
5.4L Triton 3-Valve Cam Phaser / Timing Chain "Death Rattle"
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR
Timing Chain Guide Wear and Chain Noise
Timing Chain Guide Wear / Chain Noise
FA20 Engine Oil Consumption During Spirited Driving
FB25 Timing Chain Tensioner Cold-Start Rattle
Turbo Failure From Clogged Oil-Supply Banjo Bolt Filter (Forester XT, EJ255)
AVCS Solenoid Failure (Variable Valve Timing)
FAQ
What does P0021 mean?
P0021 stands for "Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2)." P0021 means the engine computer detected that the intake camshaft on bank 2 is timed too far advanced and won't return to its commanded position. Most modern engines use variable valve timing (VVT), where an oil-pressure-driven actuator rotates the camshaft to optimize power and efficiency; the PCM compares the camshaft's actual position to its target. When the cam stays over-advanced beyond an acceptable limit, this code sets. Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one. You may notice rough idle, reduced performance, or lower fuel economy.
What are the most common causes of P0021?
The most common causes of P0021 are: Dirty or low engine oil restricting the VVT system, Stuck or failed camshaft oil control valve (VVT solenoid) on bank 2, Clogged VVT solenoid screen or oil passage, Faulty camshaft position actuator / phaser, Wiring or connector fault at the VVT solenoid, Camshaft or crankshaft position sensor problems, Worn timing chain, guides, or stretched chain altering cam timing. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0021?
Repair costs for P0021 range from $50 to $5,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0021?
Au7o has documented P0021 across 22 vehicle models from 10 manufacturers: Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jeep, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen.
Sources (12)
- NHTSANHTSA Complaint #11415968
- videoEricTheCarGuy - Diagnosing and Fixing 5.0L Coyote Cam Phaser Noise
- articleHere's How A Bad Water Pump Design Can Total An Older Ford Explorer, Taurus Or Flex - The Autopian
- Forum2017 Ford Explorer Water Pump Failure: 5 Complaints - CarComplaints.com
- articleFord Lawsuit Over Duratec V6 Due To Water Pump - Ford Authority
- M37 Timing Chain Issue
- ForumNissan QR25DE - Noise at Start-up (BobIsTheOilGuy forum)
- articleNissan Says Their Timing Chains Are Just Noisy. Owners Have a Different Take. (NissanProblems.com)
- ForumRogue with a noisy engine (Nissan Forum / NICOclub)
- ForumFord F150 3.5L Ecoboost Rattle Upon Start Up - Timing Chain Stretch Issues TSB
- articleFord 3.5L EcoBoost Series Timing Chain Issues - NewParts
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.