AutoCodesSubaru – P0021 Subaru

P0021 Subaru Code - Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance Bank 2

Quick Answer

The Active Valve Control System (AVCS) varies camshaft timing by changing the camshaft phase angle depending on engine load in order to increase engine performance and efficiency and lower emission levels. Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Faulty Oil Flow Control Solenoid, Oil Flow Control Solenoid harness 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 Subaru indicates Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance Bank 2.
Common causes
Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Faulty Oil Flow Control Solenoid, Oil Flow Control Solenoid harness 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 59,202
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 12, 2021
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0021 Subaru Description

The Active Valve Control System (AVCS) varies camshaft timing by changing the camshaft phase angle depending on engine load in order to increase engine performance and efficiency and lower emission levels. The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the oil flow control solenoids, mounted on the valve cover of each cylinder head, which acts upon the spool valves to adjust oil pressure flow to the desired chamber inside the camshaft-phasers. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the difference between the actual advanced timing and desired advanced timing is larger than the specified amount.
OBDII Code P0021 Subaru - Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com
P0021 Subaru Code - Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance Bank 2

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0021 Subaru?

  • Low or Dirty Engine Oil
  • Faulty Oil Flow Control Solenoid
  • Oil Flow Control Solenoid harness is open or shorted
  • Oil Flow Control Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection
  • Camshaft Phaser/Sprocket

How to Fix the DTC P0021 Subaru?

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 Subaru 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 Subaru code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0021 Subaru 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 Subaru Code

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

- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential stalling.

2. What are some possible causes of the P0021 code in a Subaru?

- The code may be triggered by issues such as a faulty camshaft position sensor, a malfunctioning Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid, timing chain problems, or engine oil issues.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of the P0021 code in my Subaru?

- Diagnostic steps include checking for oil sludge or debris in the VVT system, inspecting the timing chain for wear, testing the camshaft position sensor, and verifying proper oil pressure.

4. Can driving with the P0021 code cause further damage to my Subaru?

- Continuing to drive with the code may lead to engine damage, reduced performance, and potential catastrophic failure if the underlying issue is not addressed promptly.

5. How can I repair the P0021 code in my Subaru?

- Repair options may involve replacing the camshaft position sensor, VVT solenoid, timing chain components, or addressing any oil-related issues. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair.

6. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid the P0021 code in a Subaru?

- Regular oil changes using the manufacturer-recommended oil grade and interval can help prevent sludge buildup and maintain proper engine lubrication, reducing the likelihood of triggering the P0021 code.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the P0021 code issue in a Subaru?

- While some aspects of diagnosing and repairing the code may be within reach of a skilled DIYer, complex repairs involving timing components and engine internals are best left to professional mechanics to ensure proper resolution.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the P0021 code in a Subaru?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the specific cause of the code, parts required, and labor involved. It is advisable to obtain multiple quotes from reputable repair shops for accurate cost estimates.

9. Will clearing the P0021 code with an OBDII scanner temporarily fix the issue?

- Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but if the underlying problem causing the P0021 code is not resolved, the code is likely to reappear once the issue is detected again by the vehicle's onboard diagnostics.

10. Is it safe to drive my Subaru with the P0021 code illuminated?

- It is not recommended to drive with the P0021 code illuminated, as it indicates a potential issue with the engine's timing system that can lead to performance issues and further damage if not addressed promptly.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0021 Subaru OBDII Code

Code P0021 Subaru 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