AutoCodes – Nissan – P0021 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan

P0021 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 8,316

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0021 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan Description

This mechanism hydraulically controls cam phases continuously with the fixed operating angle of the intake valve.
The 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 high-speed range.
The intake valve timing control solenoid valve changes the oil amount and direction of flow through intake valve timing control unit or stops oil flow. The longer pulse width advances valve angle. The shorter pulse width retards 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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan - Intake Valve Timing Control Performance Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com — P0021 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan Code - Intake Valve Timing Control Performance Bank 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0021 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

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.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Since the Intake valve timing control solenoid valve uses oil flow to control timing, dirty oil can cause the valve to stuck open or close. Before replacing the valve, change engine oil and filter and reset engine code.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0021 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan 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 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0021 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The common symptoms of code P0021 include rough idling, engine misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, and a noticeable decrease in engine performance.

2. What does the OBDII code P0021 "Intake Valve Timing Control Performance Bank 2" mean for a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Code P0021 indicates that there is an issue with the intake valve timing control on bank 2 of the engine, which can lead to improper engine performance and efficiency.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0021 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Some possible causes of code P0021 include a faulty intake valve timing control solenoid, engine oil issues, camshaft position sensor problems, or a timing chain/belt issue.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0021 in my 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Diagnosing code P0021 involves checking the intake valve timing control solenoid, inspecting the engine oil level and quality, testing the camshaft position sensor, and ensuring proper timing chain/belt operation.

5. Can I continue driving my 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan with OBDII code P0021?

It is not recommended to continue driving with OBDII code P0021 as it can lead to further engine damage and decreased performance. It is best to address the issue promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0021 in my 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

Repairing code P0021 may involve replacing the intake valve timing control solenoid, addressing any engine oil issues, fixing the camshaft position sensor, or repairing/replacing the timing chain/belt.

7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P0021 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan without addressing the underlying issue?

Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue will only temporarily clear the check engine light. The problem causing code P0021 will persist and likely trigger the code again.

8. Will OBDII code P0021 cause permanent damage to my 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan if left unaddressed?

Leaving code P0021 unaddressed can lead to permanent engine damage over time, affecting performance and reliability. It is important to diagnose and repair the issue promptly.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0021 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan?

The cost of repairing code P0021 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. It is recommended to consult with a mechanic to get an accurate estimate based on the necessary repairs.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0021 in a 2005 Nissan Altima Sedan, or is it better to seek professional help?

While some aspects of repairing code P0021 may be DIY-friendly, it is generally recommended to seek professional help for accurate diagnosis and proper repair to ensure the issue is fully resolved.