AutoCodes – Ford – P0021 2017 Ford F150

P0021 2017 Ford F150 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 2017 Ford F150 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.

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Code Popularity 351

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 Aug 28, 2023

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0021 2017 Ford F150 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 2017 Ford F150 - 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com — P0021 2017 Ford F150 Code - 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0021 2017 Ford F150?

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 2017 Ford F150?

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

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) may be accompanied by other DTCs. Diagnose all Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor DTCs first. If no CMP sensor related DTCs are present, continue checking the Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Solenoid.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0021 2017 Ford F150 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 2017 Ford F150 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 2017 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0021 in a 2017 Ford F150?

The common symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential stalling of the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P0021 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 2 mean for a 2017 Ford F150?

This code indicates that the engine's computer has detected that the camshaft position is too advanced in bank 2, leading to potential timing and performance issues.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0021 in a 2017 Ford F150?

Common causes include a faulty camshaft position sensor, issues with the timing chain or belt, clogged oil passages, or a malfunctioning Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0021 in my 2017 Ford F150?

Diagnosis typically involves checking the camshaft position sensor, inspecting the timing components, testing the VVT solenoid, and ensuring proper oil flow to the system.

5. Can I drive my 2017 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0021?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code as it can lead to further engine damage and potential safety hazards. It's advisable to address the issue promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0021 in a 2017 Ford F150?

Repair options may include replacing the camshaft position sensor, addressing timing chain/belt issues, cleaning oil passages, or replacing the VVT solenoid based on the specific diagnosis.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0021 in my 2017 Ford F150 make it go away?

Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear once the vehicle is driven and the problem persists.

8. Is OBDII code P0021 in a 2017 Ford F150 a serious issue?

Yes, this code should be taken seriously as it can affect the engine's performance and potentially cause further damage if left unresolved. Prompt diagnosis and repair are recommended.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0021 in a 2017 Ford F150?

Depending on the skill level and tools available, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address this code by following repair guides and procedures. However, complex issues may require professional assistance.

10. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0021 in a 2017 Ford F150?

Repair costs can vary based on the specific cause of the code and the labor rates in your area. It's advisable to get multiple quotes from reputable mechanics to determine the cost of repairs.