P0012 moderate

Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)

What does P0012 mean?

The P0012 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1). This is a moderate severity code.

Common Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light on
  • Hard starting
  • Rough idle
  • Reduced engine power
  • Poor fuel economy

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

  • Stuck-closed oil control valve Very High
  • Low engine oil level or pressure High
  • Oil sludge blocking cam actuator High
  • Faulty camshaft position actuator Moderate
  • PCM fault Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

  1. Check oil level and quality. Change oil if overdue.

  2. Monitor camshaft timing angle: it should respond when the OCV is commanded. No movement means OCV or actuator failure.

  3. Test OCV resistance and voltage supply.

  4. Inspect cam actuator for carbon buildup on the vanes.

  5. Verify oil passages to the actuator are not blocked with a thin wire or compressed air.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between P0011 and P0012?

P0011 is over-advanced (cam too far ahead) while P0012 is over-retarded (cam too far behind target). P0011 often means the OCV is stuck open; P0012 means it is stuck closed or oil cannot reach the actuator.

Explore More Codes

All codes | Browse by vehicle make