P0021 on Subaru
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2)
P0021 on Subaru vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-advanced (bank 2). Au7o has documented this code across 2 Subaru models — most commonly on BRZ, WRX STI. 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 Subaru range from $50 to $500, 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 Subaru by Model
Subaru BRZ(1 issue)
- FA20 Engine Oil Consumption During Spirited Driving2013-2021
The FA20 engine in the BRZ consumes oil at elevated rates during high-RPM driving, spirited canyon runs, and track use. The engine design with direct injection and high compression (12.5:1) combined with the oil-fed variable valve timing system means oil consumption increases significantly when the engine is frequently operated above 5,000 RPM. Consumption rates of 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles are reported by owners who drive aggressively. The narrow oil galleries in the FA20 make proper oil level maintenance critical.
Subaru WRX STI(1 issue)
- AVCS Solenoid Failure (Variable Valve Timing)2004-2021
The Active Valve Control System (AVCS) solenoids on the EJ257 engine are prone to failure from oil contamination and carbon buildup. When they stick or fail, the ECU cannot properly adjust camshaft timing, causing rough idle, hesitation, and reduced power. The solenoids are oil-controlled and degrade faster with extended oil change intervals or contaminated oil.
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View P0021 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0021 mean on Subaru?▼
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 Subaru specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P0021 on Subaru vehicles?▼
Common causes on Subaru: 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 Subaru?▼
Repair costs on Subaru range from $50 to $500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Subaru models have P0021 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0021 on 2 Subaru models: BRZ, WRX STI.