P0012: A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded
P0012 means the engine computer sees the intake camshaft timing on Bank 1 staying too far retarded, usually because the oil control valve, dirty oil, or the cam phaser is not moving the camshaft as commanded. The most common fix is an oil change with the correct viscosity and, if needed, replacing the camshaft timing oil control valve; typical shop cost is about $150 to $450, while cam phaser repairs can cost much more.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Can I drive?
- Drive with caution
- DIY?
- Possible with some experience
- Repair cost range
- $50 – $2,000
Get the answer for your exact car
Add your car and a few details. DashClue asks up to 3 questions, then tells you the most likely cause and what it should cost.
FreeNo card neededAnswer in about 2 minutes
What does P0012 mean?
This code is set when the engine’s cam timing on Bank 1 is later than the computer wants it to be. On variable valve timing engines, oil pressure and a solenoid-controlled valve move the cam phaser to change valve timing for power, fuel economy, and emissions. If the cam timing stays too far retarded, the engine may run poorly and set the check engine light. The problem is often caused by dirty or low oil, a sticking oil control valve, wiring issues, or a worn cam phaser.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Rough idle
- Loss of power when accelerating
- Poor fuel economy
- Hard starting
- Possible rattling or ticking from the engine
Causes, fixes and costs
P0012: A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded
General guide for most cars. Your car may differ.
You can usually drive gently for a short time, but the engine may run rough, lose power, or use more fuel. Stop driving if the engine starts rattling badly, stalls, or the check engine light begins flashing.
Most likely causes
- 1
Dirty or low engine oilHigh
If the oil is dirty, thick, or low, the variable valve timing system may not move the cam phaser correctly. This is especially likely if the code came on after an overdue oil change or if the engine sounds slightly noisy.
Quick check: Check the oil level and condition. If it is low or very dirty, service the oil and filter first.
- 2
Faulty camshaft timing oil control valveHigh
A sticking or electrically failed oil control valve can hold the cam timing in the wrong position, often with rough idle, loss of power, or an intermittent code. The problem may come and go as the valve sticks.
Quick check: Inspect the connector and wiring, then test or substitute the oil control valve if the code returns.
- 3
Worn or stuck cam phaserMedium
If the cam phaser is worn internally, it may not respond even with clean oil and a working solenoid. This is more likely if you hear a rattle at startup or the code keeps returning after basic oil service.
Quick check: Listen for startup rattle and compare commanded vs. actual cam timing with a scan tool.
- 4
Wiring or connector problem to the VVT systemLow
Broken wires, corrosion, or a loose connector can keep the solenoid from getting the signal it needs, causing an intermittent check engine light and inconsistent symptoms. This is more likely if the problem appears after engine work or in wet conditions.
Quick check: Inspect the harness, pins, and connector for damage, corrosion, or oil intrusion.
Can you fix it yourself?
Possible with some experience
Difficulty: Moderate. An oil change and a visual inspection of the VVT connector are reasonable DIY tasks if you are comfortable working around the engine. Diagnosis beyond that usually needs a scan tool, wiring checks, and sometimes specialized testing of the cam timing system.
Show the stepsHide the steps
- Check the oil level and condition
- Change the oil and filter if it is overdue or dirty
- Inspect the cam oil control valve connector and wiring
- Clear the code and road test the vehicle
- If the code returns, test the oil control valve and circuit
- Replace the faulty valve or repair wiring as needed
- If timing remains off, have the cam phaser and engine timing checked
Estimated repair cost
$50 – $120
Oil and filter change: parts and labor
- Camshaft timing oil control valve$150 – $350
- Wiring repair to VVT circuit$100 – $300
- Cam phaser replacement$500 – $1,200
- Timing chain-related repair$900 – $2,000
Prices vary by engine, parts access, and local labor rates.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with P0012?
Usually yes for a short time if the car runs normally, but drive gently and get it checked soon. If it starts knocking, stalling, or the check engine light flashes, stop driving.
Will an oil change fix P0012?
Sometimes yes, especially if the oil is low, dirty, or the wrong viscosity. If the code comes back after service, the oil control valve, wiring, or cam phaser may be the real problem.
How much does it cost to fix P0012?
A simple oil service may cost around $50 to $120, while replacing the cam oil control valve often runs about $150 to $350. If the cam phaser or timing parts are worn, the repair can cost much more.
Can a bad sensor cause P0012?
Yes, but the more common causes are oil flow problems or a stuck VVT valve, not the cam sensor itself. The sensor is usually checked only after the oil and timing control parts are inspected.
Will P0012 fail emissions or inspection?
In many states, yes, because the check engine light is on and the engine may not be running cleanly. The code should be repaired and cleared before inspection.
Related codes
- P0011 A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance
- P0010 A Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit
- P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit (Bank 1)
- P0341 Camshaft Position Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance
- P0013 B Camshaft Position - Actuator Circuit
- P0014 B Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Advanced Or System Performance
Related problems
This guide covers most cars and is general advice, not an inspection. Prices are typical US independent-shop ranges and vary by region, car and shop. If your brakes, steering or a warning light feel unsafe, stop driving and contact a mechanic.