Camshaft A timing over-retarded (Bank 1)
The measured Bank 1 camshaft A position is more retarded than the controller expects. A means the intake, left or front camshaft depending on the engine, and the code does not by itself establish a stretched timing chain. The exact setting conditions and confirmation tests depend on the engine and model year. Bank 1 is the side containing cylinder 1.
Can I keep driving?
Chain rattle or knocking, an oil pressure warning, stalling or severe shaking requires pulling over safely, shutting down and arranging a tow. Even without those symptoms, obtain a shop assessment before continuing to drive; the code alone cannot rule out mechanical timing trouble.
Flashing light, burning smell or smoke? Pull over safely. Danger to life: call 911.
What does this code mean for your car?
The same code can need different checks depending on the model and engine. Enter your vehicle details to find relevant sources and checks.
Symptoms
- Uneven idle or shaking
- Power loss or hard starting
- Timing-area noise if a mechanical problem is present
Possible causes
- 1Low oil level, incorrect oil or restricted timing oil supply
- 2Sticking oil control valve or cam phaser
- 3Timing chain, belt or mechanical alignment problem
- 4Wiring or cam position feedback fault
These possibilities are not ranked by frequency and do not diagnose your vehicle.
Checks you can safely do yourself
Safe checks only: engine off and cold, car on level ground.
- Save all codes and any freeze-frame data your scanner displays before clearing or repairs.
- Check oil level only as described in the owner's manual with the vehicle parked and engine off; note oil specification and the last oil service.
When you need a shop
Arrange a timing diagnosis: compare desired and measured cam position, verify oil specification and level and oil pressure when indicated, and test the control valve and phaser. Mechanical alignment needs checking if indicated; a code alone does not justify a timing chain replacement.
How much does it cost?
A US repair estimate needs a diagnosis and a local shop quote.
We do not have a verified US repair quote for this fault. Request 2-3 itemized estimates after diagnosis; vehicle, parts and labor determine the cost.
Get 2-3 quotes
Investigate this code for my carFAQ
Can I keep driving with P0012?
Chain rattle or knocking, an oil pressure warning, stalling or severe shaking requires pulling over safely, shutting down and arranging a tow. Even without those symptoms, obtain a shop assessment before continuing to drive; the code alone cannot rule out mechanical timing trouble.
What can cause this code?
Possibilities include low oil level, incorrect oil or restricted timing oil supply; sticking oil control valve or cam phaser; timing chain, belt or mechanical alignment problem; wiring or cam position feedback fault. The code does not rank causes or identify a part that must be replaced.
Does clearing the code fix the fault?
No. Clearing the code does not repair its cause or prove the fault is absent. It can erase diagnostic data and reset readiness monitors. Even if the code does not reappear immediately, the repair needs verification using the tests appropriate to the vehicle.
What if this code appears during a pre-purchase check?
Arrange an independent professional inspection before buying, including stored data, readiness status and written diagnostic findings. Arrange a timing diagnosis: compare desired and measured cam position, verify oil specification and level and oil pressure when indicated, and test the control valve and phaser. Mechanical alignment needs checking if indicated; a code alone does not justify a timing chain replacement.
How much does repairing P0012 cost?
We do not have a verified US repair quote for this fault. Request 2-3 itemized estimates after diagnosis; vehicle, parts and labor determine the cost.