P0021 on Infiniti
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2)
P0021 on Infiniti vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-advanced (bank 2). Au7o has documented this code across 4 Infiniti models — most commonly on FX45, M56, Q70. P0021 means the engine computer detected that the intake camshaft on bank 2 is timed too far advanced and won't return to its commanded position. Most modern engines use variable valve timing (VVT), where an oil-pressure-driven actuator rotates the camshaft to optimize power and efficiency; the PCM compares the camshaft's actual position to its target. When the cam stays over-advanced beyond an acceptable limit, this code sets. Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one. You may notice rough idle, reduced performance, or lower fuel economy. Typical repair costs on Infiniti range from $900 to $5,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0021
- •Dirty or low engine oil restricting the VVT system
- •Stuck or failed camshaft oil control valve (VVT solenoid) on bank 2
- •Clogged VVT solenoid screen or oil passage
- •Faulty camshaft position actuator / phaser
- •Wiring or connector fault at the VVT solenoid
- •Camshaft or crankshaft position sensor problems
- •Worn timing chain, guides, or stretched chain altering cam timing
P0021 on Infiniti by Model
Infiniti FX45(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Guide Wear and Chain Noise2003-2008
The VK45DE V8 used in the FX45 can develop timing chain guide and tensioner wear, leading to chain rattle on startup or at idle. Owners report the issue more often on higher-mileage engines or vehicles with poor oil change history, where sludge and low oil pressure accelerate guide and tensioner wear.
Infiniti M56(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Guide Wear / Chain Noise2011-2013
Owners of VK56VD-equipped M56 models report startup rattle and persistent front-engine timing noise related to timing chain guide and tensioner wear. As mileage increases, slack in the primary chain system can affect valve timing and trigger correlation faults, especially when oil change intervals have been extended.
Infiniti Q70(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure2014-2019
The VQ37VHR and VQ35HR engines in the M/Q70 series develop timing chain tensioner wear, leading to chain rattle on startup and potential chain skip. The hydraulic tensioners lose their ability to maintain proper chain tension as the internal check valve wears.
Infiniti QX50(1 issue)
- Timing Chain / VVEL Rattle and Front Timing Cover Oil Leaks on VQ37VHR2014-2018
Owners of the 3.7L VQ37VHR-equipped QX50 report a metallic rattle at cold start and oil seepage from the front timing cover area. On this engine, timing chain guide/tensioner wear and RTV-sealed front cover leaks can develop with age and heat cycling; because the VVEL/timing components sit behind the front cover, diagnosis often starts with distinguishing harmless brief startup noise from persistent chain or guide wear. Multiple owner complaints and repair discussions note oil smell, visible seepage down the front of the engine, and expensive labor because the front cover must be resealed and timing components inspected at the same time.
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What does P0021 mean on Infiniti?▼
P0021 stands for "Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2)." P0021 means the engine computer detected that the intake camshaft on bank 2 is timed too far advanced and won't return to its commanded position. Most modern engines use variable valve timing (VVT), where an oil-pressure-driven actuator rotates the camshaft to optimize power and efficiency; the PCM compares the camshaft's actual position to its target. When the cam stays over-advanced beyond an acceptable limit, this code sets. Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one. You may notice rough idle, reduced performance, or lower fuel economy. On Infiniti specifically, this code is documented across 4 models.
What causes P0021 on Infiniti vehicles?▼
Common causes on Infiniti: Dirty or low engine oil restricting the VVT system, Stuck or failed camshaft oil control valve (VVT solenoid) on bank 2, Clogged VVT solenoid screen or oil passage, Faulty camshaft position actuator / phaser, Wiring or connector fault at the VVT solenoid. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0021 on a Infiniti?▼
Repair costs on Infiniti range from $900 to $5,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Infiniti models have P0021 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0021 on 4 Infiniti models: FX45, M56, Q70, QX50.