AutoCodes – Lexus – P0021 Lexus

P0021 Lexus Code - Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the Oil Control Valve (OCV) to regulate the intake camshaft angle. Common causes include Dirty Oil, Faulty variable valve timing (VVT), Variable Valve Timing (VVT) circuit is open or shorted. 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 Lexus indicates Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2.
Common causes: Common causes include Dirty Oil, Faulty variable valve timing (VVT), Variable Valve Timing (VVT) circuit is open or shorted.
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.

Save to My Repairs Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 20,816

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
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0021 Lexus Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the Oil Control Valve (OCV) to regulate the intake camshaft angle. As a result of the angle change, the engine timing is advance or retard. Optimizing engine timing will help the engine improve torque and fuel economy, and the exhaust emissions decrease under overall driving conditions. The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system includes the Oil Control Valve (OCV) and VVT controller. The ECM detects the actual intake valve timing using signals from the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, and performs feedback control.

OBDII Code P0021 Lexus - Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com — P0021 Lexus Code - Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance Bank 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0021 Lexus?

Dirty Oil
Faulty variable valve timing (VVT)
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) circuit is open or shorted
Oil Control Valve (OCV) circuit is open or shorted
Faulty oil control valve (OCV)
Damaged Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0021 Lexus?

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

If the engine oil is clean and the VVT and OCV circuits are OK, replaced the VVT to resolve the problem.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0021 Lexus 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 Lexus code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0021 Lexus 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.