Faulty Bank 2 VVT sensor (camshaft position sensor) or its wiring/connector; Contaminated or degraded engine oil affecting VVT solenoid operation; Sticking or failed Bank 2 VVT oil control solenoid valve; Restricted oil passage or sludge buildup in the VVT system; Timing chain stretch or misalignment affecting camshaft timing; Engine control module (ECM) calibration issue or faulty ECM (rare)

DTC codes / Toyota codes / P1351

P1351 · ToyotaVVT Sensor Range Performance Problem Bank 2

Q: What does code P1351 mean?

VVT Sensor Range Performance Problem Bank 2. P1351 on a Toyota means the engine computer has detected that the Bank 2 Variable Valve Timing (VVT) sensor is not reporting a camshaft position that matches the commanded timing advance or retard. The computer compares the actual camshaft position signal against the expected value and flags a performance range problem when the deviation exceeds its calibrated threshold.

P1351 on a Toyota means the engine computer has detected that the Bank 2 Variable Valve Timing (VVT) sensor is not reporting a camshaft position that matches the commanded timing advance or retard. The computer compares the actual camshaft position signal against the expected value and flags a performance range problem when the deviation exceeds its calibrated threshold.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeToyota specific

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaIgnition system and misfire

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
Rough idle or engine stumble, especially when cold
Reduced engine power or sluggish acceleration
Poor fuel economy or increased fuel consumption
Occasional engine misfire or hesitation during acceleration
In some cases, the engine may enter limp mode or exhibit hard starting

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty Bank 2 VVT sensor (camshaft position sensor) or its wiring/connector
Contaminated or degraded engine oil affecting VVT solenoid operation
Sticking or failed Bank 2 VVT oil control solenoid valve
Restricted oil passage or sludge buildup in the VVT system
Timing chain stretch or misalignment affecting camshaft timing
Engine control module (ECM) calibration issue or faulty ECM (rare)

How to diagnose and fix it

Check engine oil level and condition; replace oil and filter if overdue or contaminated
Inspect the Bank 2 VVT sensor connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose pins
Swap the Bank 2 VVT sensor with the Bank 1 sensor (if accessible) to see if the code moves
Test the VVT solenoid for proper resistance and operation; clean or replace if faulty
Verify oil pressure and check for sludge or restricted oil passages in the VVT system
Inspect timing chain for stretch or misalignment using manufacturer procedures
If all else fails, reprogram or replace the ECM as per Toyota service information

Oil quality and sensor swaps matter

A dirty or incorrect viscosity oil is a leading cause of VVT performance codes on Toyotas, so always verify oil maintenance history first.
The VVT sensor itself is often misdiagnosed; swapping it with the Bank 1 sensor is a quick way to confirm whether the sensor or the circuit is at fault.
A stretched timing chain can set P1351 without any other codes, so inspect chain condition if the sensor and solenoid test good.
The code can be intermittent and may not illuminate the light immediately; always check for pending codes during routine scans.
After repairs, clear codes and perform a road test with several drive cycles to ensure the monitor completes and the code does not return.

Can I keep driving with P1351?

You can usually drive with P1351 set, but avoid aggressive acceleration or heavy loads until diagnosed, as prolonged driving with VVT issues may cause poor performance or damage. If the engine runs rough or enters limp mode, seek service promptly.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for Toyota vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.