Question

What is code P0012​?

Code P0012 is defined as “Intake (A) Camshaft Position Timing – Over-Retarded (Bank 1),” meaning that your car’s powertrain control module (PCM) has sensed a difference in the required camshaft position angle and the actual camshaft position angle.

More exactly, the PCM logs this code when it identifies that the camshaft has continued in a retarded position or Bank 1’s camshaft timing is more than the maximum retard value. In order to increase performance and fuel efficiency, new cars use a variable timing system to regulate the timing of exhaust and intake valves. The PCM uses a camshaft actuator to adjust the camshaft accordingly. The PCM will log the P0012 code if there’s no response from the camshaft when the PCM requests.

What are the symptoms of the P0012 code?

These are some common signs that you can observe when the PCM logs this code.

• The check engine light will illuminate
• Engine stalls
• Fuel efficiency decreases
• The engine experiences a hard start condition
• The engine has poor idling
• A rattling sound from the engine
• The car may fail the emissions test

What can cause a P0012 code?

These are some common reasons why the P0012 engine code shows up in your car.

• Engine oil levels are low
• Bad or defective variable valve timing actuator
• The timing chain gets worn out
• Bad or defective camshaft variable timing solenoid
• Incompatible engine oil with the manufacturer’s specification for the car’s engine
• Defective tensioner or timing chain guide
• Dirty engine oil that blocks the VVT solenoid screen
• A damaged camshaft phaser jammed in the retarded position
• Camshaft timing is incorrect

How to fix code P0012

These are some steps that you can follow to fix this issue.

• Reset the error code and do a test drive.
• Change the oil and oil filter to the correct oil viscosity according to the engine’s specifications.
• Replace or repair the wiring connected to the camshaft oil control solenoid.
• Change the camshaft oil control valve for the Bank 1 intake camshaft.
• Inspect the timing chain alignment for jumped timing issues and do the required repairs.

How much does it cost to fix code P0012?

The cost to repair the P0012 code starts from $20 for an oil change to more than $3,000 for a complex task. The cost to replace a common solenoid can be between $300 and $400.

Can you drive with a P0012 code?

No, we don’t recommend driving with this error code. Driving with this code can cause the engine to run rough, hesitate, stall, or even have a hard start condition. Also, the code can lead to increased fuel consumption and carbon fouling of the engine parts. Driving with the camshafts that fail to retard will cause problems to the engine or valve train, depending on the source of the failure.