P0021 on Toyota
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Advanced (Bank 2)
P0021 on Toyota vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-advanced (bank 2). Au7o has documented this code across 1 Toyota model — most commonly on Sienna. 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 Toyota range from $50 to $800, 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 Toyota by Model
Toyota Sienna(1 issue)
- 3.5L 2GR-FE Oil Leak from VVT-i System and Timing Cover2007-2020
The 3.5L 2GR-FE V6 commonly develops oil leaks from the VVT-i oil line, timing cover, and valve cover gaskets. The VVT-i oil hose fitting loosens over time, dripping oil onto the exhaust manifold creating a burning smell and fire risk.
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View P0021 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0021 mean on Toyota?▼
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 Toyota specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0021 on Toyota vehicles?▼
Common causes on Toyota: 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 Toyota?▼
Repair costs on Toyota range from $50 to $800, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Toyota models have P0021 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0021 on 1 Toyota model: Sienna.