Hey fam,

I took the car to the dealer today (2008 g35x) for throwing the infamous P0021 code and for reduced horsepower. I was horrified I would have a case of a blown galley gasket and I told them so. They checked the car and turns out it is the VVT solenoid (intake timing solenoid is the same, right?) at least for now. I am not sure whether I should change both to be safe or just one.

Dealer's notes: "B2 timing control solenoid will go to 82% duty cucle but timing will not change. Timing control solenoid seems to be sticking not controlling oil flow to timing actuator correctly. Removed B2 timing cover and engine does not look to be sludged. need to start with B2 intake timing control solenoid. Also noticed while data monitoring that aplhas (alphas?) seem to be running lean on B1. There is an intake leak on PCV tube from aftermarket air filter install. Used zip tie to try and seal PCV tubes."

Thoughts??

 

I'd replace the one that is believed to be faulty for now, and keep in the back of your mind that the other may not be far behind.
I would have them do an oil pressure test too, help to rule out any oil gallery problems.

 

Hey andrewl_v35,

Thanks a lot for the reply. I pretty much gave up on the idea that someone would reply and I purchased both solenoids from Rockauto. I'm hoping of eliminating any potential sources for this code. I just really hope I don't have to deal with any galley gaskets because that is $$$$. The dealer said they didn't need to do an oil pressure test because apparently my car was running fine after they put the solenoid back in, so hopefully that's what's causing it.

I bought the Hitachi solenoids. Rockauto says they are the actual OE. Would getting more expensive solenoids even make any difference?

 

The only brand sensors that are known to work well with these cars are Nissan OEM or Hitachi. Pretty sure Hitachi is the supplier for Nissan/Infiniti.... so you should be all good.

 

Awesome. Thanks a lot for the reply again.