AutoCodes – Lincoln – P0021 Lincoln

P0021 Lincoln Code - 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2

Quick Answer

The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) solenoid valve is an integral part of the VCT system. Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Incorrect camshaft timing, Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 2 Solenoid 1 (VCT21). Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0021 Lincoln indicates 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2.
Common causes
Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Incorrect camshaft timing, Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 2 Solenoid 1 (VCT21).
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,903
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 28, 2023
πŸ’¬ Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers β€” it's free!

Code P0021 Lincoln Description

The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) solenoid valve is an integral part of the VCT system. The solenoid valve controls the flow of engine oil in the VCT actuator assembly. As the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the duty cycle of the solenoid valve, oil pressure/flow advances or retards the cam timing. Duty cycles near 0% or 100% represent the rapid movement of the camshaft. Retaining a fixed camshaft position is accomplished by dithering (oscillating) the solenoid valve duty cycle.
The PCM calculates and determines the desired camshaft position. It continually updates the VCT solenoid duty cycle until the desired position is achieved. A difference between the desired and actual camshaft position represents a position error in the PCM VCT control loop. The PCM disables the VCT and places the camshaft in a default position if a concern is detected. A related Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) also sets when the concern is detected.
When the VCT solenoid is energized, engine oil is allowed to flow to the VCT actuator assembly which advances or retards the camshaft timing. One half of the VCT actuator is coupled to the camshaft and the other half is connected to the timing chain. Oil chambers between the 2 halves couple the camshaft to the timing chain. When the flow of oil is shifted from one side of the chamber to the other, the differential change in oil pressure forces the camshaft to rotate in either an advance or retard position depending on the oil flow.
This DTC sets when the VCT position is over-advanced. This DTC sets when the camshaft timing exceeds a maximum calibrated value or remains in an advanced position.
OBDII Code P0021 Lincoln - 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com
P0021 Lincoln Code - 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0021 Lincoln?

  • Low or Dirty Engine Oil
  • Incorrect camshaft timing
  • Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 2 Solenoid 1 (VCT21)
  • Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Bank 2 Sensor 1 (CMP21)
  • Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 2 Solenoid 1 circuit is open or shorted
  • Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 2 Solenoid 1 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Camshaft Position Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit is open or shorted
  • Camshaft Position Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing Phaser

How to Fix the DTC P0021 Lincoln?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0021 Lincoln code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0021 Lincoln code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0021 Lincoln code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0021 Lincoln code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0021 Lincoln Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0021 in a Lincoln vehicle?

- Common symptoms of P0021 include engine misfires, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency, and a noticeable decrease in overall engine performance.

2. What does the OBDII code P0021 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2 mean for a Lincoln vehicle?

- This code indicates that the camshaft timing for bank 2 is over-advanced, potentially leading to issues with the engine's performance and efficiency.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0021 in a Lincoln vehicle?

- The most common causes of P0021 include a faulty camshaft position sensor, issues with the camshaft phaser, engine timing chain problems, or a malfunctioning Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid.

4. How serious is OBDII code P0021 in a Lincoln vehicle?

- While the vehicle may still be drivable with P0021, it is important to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage to the engine and ensure optimal performance.

5. Can I continue driving my Lincoln with OBDII code P0021 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving your Lincoln with code P0021 present, as it could lead to more severe engine problems over time. It's best to address the issue as soon as possible.

6. How can I diagnose and repair OBDII code P0021 in my Lincoln vehicle?

- Diagnosing and repairing P0021 typically involves inspecting the camshaft position sensor, camshaft phaser, timing chain, and VVT solenoid for any faults. It is recommended to seek professional help for an accurate diagnosis and repair.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0021 in my Lincoln vehicle solve the issue?

- Resetting the code may temporarily remove the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying problem causing P0021. It's essential to diagnose and repair the root cause of the code for a permanent solution.

8. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0021 in a Lincoln vehicle?

- The cost of repairing P0021 can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code. It is advisable to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate diagnosis and cost estimate.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0021 in a Lincoln vehicle?

- While some experienced DIY enthusiasts may be able to address simpler causes of P0021, it is generally recommended to seek help from a qualified mechanic due to the complexity of the components involved.

10. How often does OBDII code P0021 occur in Lincoln vehicles?

- P0021 can occur in Lincoln vehicles, especially as they age and components wear out. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent the occurrence of this code.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0021 Lincoln OBDII Code

Code P0021 Lincoln comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play