OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic, extended)

P21F8 Fuel Control System B Too Lean at Idle (Bank 1)

Secondary fuel control loop B reports a lean condition at idle on bank 1. Idle is sensitive to vacuum leaks since manifold flow is low.

Is it safe to drive with P21F8?

Usually safe to drive in the short term. Get it diagnosed when convenient, sooner if the car drives differently.

Common causes

  • Most likelyVacuum leak — most visible at idle

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Rough idle, possible stalling
  • Hesitation or hard cold start
  • Power loss under load

Repair at a glance

Difficulty
Medium
DIY friendly
Often, with basic tools
Typical labour
0.7–3.5 h
Emissions test
Likely to fail
Parts involved
Fuel Injector, Intake Manifold, Oxygen Sensor

Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.