AutoCodesNissan – P0021 2004 Nissan Maxima

P0021 2004 Nissan Maxima Code - Intake Valve Timing Control Performance Bank 2

Quick Answer

This mechanism hydraulically controls cam phases continuously with the fixed operating angle of the intake valve. Common causes include Faulty Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve, Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve harness is open or shorted, Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve circuit poor electrical connection. 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 2004 Nissan Maxima indicates Intake Valve Timing Control Performance Bank 2.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve, Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve harness is open or shorted, Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve circuit poor electrical connection.
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.
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Code Popularity 20,909
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 29, 2020
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Code P0021 2004 Nissan Maxima Description

This mechanism hydraulically controls cam phases continuously with the fixed operating angle of the intake valve. The Engine Control Module (ECM) receives signals such as crankshaft position, camshaft position, engine speed, and engine coolant temperature. Then, the ECM sends ON/OFF pulse duty signals to the intake valve timing control solenoid valve depending on driving status. This makes it possible to control the shut/open timing of the intake valve to increase engine torque in low/mid speed range and output in the high-speed range.
The intake valve timing control solenoid valve changes the oil amount and direction of flow through the intake valve timing control unit or stops oil flow. The longer pulse width advances the valve angle. The shorter pulse width retards the valve angle. When ON and OFF pulse widths become equal, the solenoid valve stops oil pressure flow to fix the intake valve angle at the control position.
OBDII Code P0021 2004 Nissan Maxima - Intake Valve Timing Control Performance Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com
P0021 2004 Nissan Maxima Code - Intake Valve Timing Control Performance Bank 2

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0021 2004 Nissan Maxima?

  • Faulty Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve
  • Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve harness is open or shorted
  • Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Camshaft Position Sensor
  • Camshaft Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Camshaft Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor (POS)

How to Fix the DTC P0021 2004 Nissan Maxima?

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 2004 Nissan Maxima 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 2004 Nissan Maxima code?

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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 2004 Nissan Maxima Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0021 in a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P0021 "Intake Valve Timing Control Performance Bank 2" mean for a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- This code indicates that there is a performance issue with the intake valve timing control on bank 2 of the engine.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0021 in a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- Possible causes include a faulty intake valve timing control solenoid, damaged timing chain or belt, low engine oil level, or issues with the camshaft or crankshaft sensors.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0021 in my 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- Diagnosing this code typically involves checking the condition of the timing components, inspecting the intake valve timing control solenoid, and testing the camshaft and crankshaft sensors.

5. Can I continue driving my 2004 Nissan Maxima with OBDII code P0021 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with this code active, as it can lead to further engine damage and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0021 in my 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- Repairing this code may involve replacing the intake valve timing control solenoid, addressing any issues with the timing components, and resetting the fault code with an OBDII scanner.

7. Is it possible to clear the OBDII code P0021 in a 2004 Nissan Maxima without fixing the underlying issue?

- While it is possible to clear the code temporarily, the underlying issue causing the code will need to be addressed to prevent it from reoccurring.

8. Will OBDII code P0021 cause permanent damage to the engine of a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- If left unresolved, this code can potentially cause damage to the engine over time, especially if it leads to timing issues or other related problems.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0021 in a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- The cost of repairs for this code can vary depending on the specific issue causing it, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0021 in a 2004 Nissan Maxima?

- Depending on the DIY enthusiast's skill level and access to tools, some may be able to address simpler causes of this code, such as replacing the intake valve timing control solenoid. However, more complex issues may require professional assistance.

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