P0021 on Lexus: How to Diagnose & Fix
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2)
1 Lexus model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical
P0021 on Lexus by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
On 2007-2011 GS 350 vehicles with the 2GR-FSE V6 built 19 June 2006 through 12 July 2011, the bolts that secure the housing and the sprocket of the variable valve timing gear assembly can loosen. The loosening is driven by abnormal impacts generated inside the gear assembly right after a cold start, when oil pressure to the VVT unit has not yet built. If the bolts back out far enough the VVT gear housing and sprocket separate, valve timing is lost and the engine stops while the car is being driven. Important distinction: this is NOT the rubber VVT-i oil supply hose failure that swept the 2GR-FE family (Camry/Avalon/RAV4/ES 350/RX 350). The GS 350's 2GR-FSE uses metal VVT-i oil lines from the factory and is not part of that hose campaign - the GS 350's VVT problem is this bolt/gear-assembly defect instead. Merging the two is the most common error made on this nameplate.
Common Symptoms
- Rattle or knock from the front of the engine on cold start
- Check engine light with VVT codes
- Sudden engine shutdown while driving
- Engine will not restart after stalling
How to Fix
NHTSA recall 13V395000. Lexus dealers replace the VVT unit (gear assembly) free of charge. Verify by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before buying a 2007-2011 GS 350 - an unperformed recall on this one means a possible loss of power on the road. Outside the recall, a rattling or knocking noise for a few seconds on cold start is the classic early warning and should be diagnosed, not ignored.
Sources for this issue (3)
P0021 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0021 mean on a Lexus?
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. On Lexus it is documented across 1 model: GS.
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 on a Lexus?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Lexus model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
Looking for P0021 on a different make?
View P0021 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.