P0012 OBD-II: "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded

P0012 Severity

Urgent

Should you fix P0012 yourself?

Identifying an OBD code is just the start of a complete diagnostic routine. Most trouble codes are caused by a sensor reporting a value that is out of range. Just replacing a sensor may not fix underlying issues. Be sure to understand the code, the part or system in your car that the code refers to, and the risks of delaying professional repair.

Proper diagnosis will save you time and money on unnecessary repairs.

Urgent codes indicate immediate action is necessary. These are urgent and significant malfunctions that can cause severe damage to the vehicle or harm the driver and passengers.

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What causes OBD-II fault code P0012?

Newer vehicles use a variable timing system to adjust the timing of the intake and exhaust valves in an effort to increase fuel efficiency and performance. The engine control module (PCM) uses a Camshaft Position Actuator to adjust the camshaft accordingly. If the Camshaft does not respond as the PCM requests, the PCM will set code P0012.

What Does P0012 Code Mean?

OBD-II Code P0012 is defined as a "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded

P0012 Symptoms

Decreased engine performance
Increased fuel consumption

Common Problems That Trigger the P0012 Code

Camshaft variable timing solenoid failure
Engine oil level is too low
The engine is not timing correctly
The engine oil does not meet the manufacturer's requirements
Variable valve timing actuator failure
Worn timing chain

Common Repairs Needed for the P0012 Code

Oil and Filter Change

OBD Code Resources

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What Does P0012 Code Mean?

OBD-II Code P0012 is defined as a "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded

P0012 Symptoms

Decreased engine performance
Increased fuel consumption

Common Problems That Trigger the P0012 Code

Camshaft variable timing solenoid failure
Engine oil level is too low
The engine is not timing correctly
The engine oil does not meet the manufacturer's requirements
Variable valve timing actuator failure
Worn timing chain

Common Repairs Needed for the P0012 Code

Oil and Filter Change

P0012 OBD-II: "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded

Should you fix P0012 yourself?

What causes OBD-II fault code P0012?

Need a P0012 diagnosis? Trust our experts.

What Does P0012 Code Mean?

P0012 Symptoms

Common Problems That Trigger the P0012 Code

Common Repairs Needed for the P0012 Code

OBD Code Resources

Need a P0012 diagnosis? Trust our experts.

Ask our experts about P0012.

Other OBD-II Codes

What Does P0012 Code Mean?

P0012 Symptoms

Common Problems That Trigger the P0012 Code

Common Repairs Needed for the P0012 Code