Error Code P2021: What It Means & What To Do?

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You are probably here because your vehicle has the P2021 code set and are wondering what that means. Well, worry not, you will find all the information you need to understand as well as resolve this code. One thing to remember is that this code will be described differently if you have a diesel engine in your car. In that case it will be “Rail Pressure Monitoring VIA Pressure Control Valve, pressure low”. This code is set by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) when it notices that the circuit low bank 2 circuit is reading a value lower than what is expected.

Your vehicle has an actuator or solenoid that is responsible for redirecting the air travel path through the intake manifolds to the cylinders. The air flow through the intake manifold is optimised using the intake runner. This is done as the revolutions per minute (RPM) change. On another note the resistance or the voltage that is picked up by the PCM changes as the position of the valve also changes. The PCM will set P2021 code when the circuit reading isn’t as per manufacturer's specifications.

What causes this problem with the Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor/Switch Circuit Low Bank 2?

• Intake runner valve position is not correct
• Faulty IMRC solenoid
• Faulty PCM

1. Pressure Control Valve - Their job is to help in keeping system pressures below a desired upper limit and maintaining a set pressure in part of a circuit. If you’re having any issues with it, try to repair or go for replacement, this may help in getting rid of the P2021 code.
2. Electric valve solenoid - This is an electromechanical actuated valve which helps to control the flow of liquids and gases in the vehicle. Problems with this can cause extensive damage to the engine and other parts. Repair or replace it as needed.
3. Intake Valve Position Sensor - Determines the position and/or rotational speed (RPM) of the crank. You can try to fix the damages via repairs if that’s not helping in getting rid of the P2021 code, then you will have to go for replacement. But don’t worry, no matter where you are in Canada, we will ship your order to you!
4. Vacuum Valve Actuator - Is responsible for creating the necessary vacuum when the air leaves the actuator which in turn allows the actuator to open smoothly. You will have the P2021 code flash if there’s a problem with it. Repair or replace as needed. You can opt for replacements from PartsAvatar easily.
5. Intake Manifold Pressure - Has the important task of controlling the power production as needed by the vehicle. It’s important that it’s working well, to avoid major issues with your vehicle. Get rid of the P2021 code by repairing or replacing it. PartsAvatar brings a wide range of parts for various vehicle fitments. Find the right one for you and order online today.
6. Air Intake System - The important task of letting air into the car engine is performed here. Repair the problems you have noted and if that doesn’t resolve the P2021 code then go for replacement. You can find what you’re looking for at PartsAvatar and don’t worry about where you are located,. We ship from our warehouses and you can get your order in just few days!
7. Intake Manifold - Has the responsibility of distributing the combustion mixture evenly. Make sure it’s fine you can order replacement online from us and get free shipping on orders over CAD $99. This may help you resolve your P2021 code.
8. Powertrain Control Module - Is the brain of your vehicle, it’s job is monitor all the parts of the car. Repair any issues you may have discovered or replace if necessary. You can find the perfect PCM on Parts Avatar, we ship to the remotest corners of Canada.

It is vital to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P2021 here:

Common Symptoms

• Poor power
• unpredictable idle
• Engine stalls
• The check engine light is on
• Leak in the vacuum
• RPM are not as normal

It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P2021 code to be stored:

The first step is basic and is about retrieving all the codes that have been set. For this, the diagnostic scanner will have to be plugged into the diagnostic port of your vehicle. Make sure you freeze frame the data. Any codes that were set prior to the P2021 code will have to be sorted first, as they may have been the reason for the code to set in the first place. It’s always good to rule that out.

The next step is to run a basic inspection of all the electrical circuits, connectors, wiring etc for damages such as burns, corrosion, bent pins etc. All of these will have to be repaired or replaced. After that is sorted, clear the codes and go on a test drive to see if it resets. In case it resets, you will have to continue your diagnosis. Depending on your vehicle you may have a vacuum operated actuator or a vacuum solenoid if it’s electrically actuated. In the case of the former, a hand held vacuum pump will have to be used to test it.The purpose is to see if the internal valve is getting turned by the actuator, motor or solenoid. In order to do this, a command can be sent to the system with scanner or by driving the vehicle under the special conditions that will activate the system. While this is happening keep an eye on the scan tool data for the result.

A lot of the times it may be necessary to disassemble the intake manifold to make a thorough inspection of the intake runner valve, and see if it’s gotten stuck. Accordingly repairs or replacements can be made.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P2021 Code

• Not checking for issues that may be present with the motor
• Not following the diagnostic steps in order
• Not clearing the code after each repair and instead continuing diagnosis
• Hastily concluding an issue with the PCM and replacing it