P0012: Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
76 vehicles · 18 makes · $50-$32,000 repair
Most Reported On
P0012 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1).” This code means the intake camshaft timing on Bank 1 is more retarded than the computer commanded — the variable valve timing system isn't reaching its target position. The computer controls camshaft timing through an oil-fed actuator (cam phaser) and a control solenoid; when actual timing lags the desired setting, this code sets. It is commonly caused by oil flow problems (low, dirty, or wrong oil), a stuck solenoid, or a worn cam phaser. Symptoms can include rough idle, reduced power, poor fuel economy, and sometimes rattling on startup. This code is most commonly reported on 2015-2023 Ford Mustang (GT, GT Premium, Bullitt, Mach 1), 2007-2013 MINI Cooper S (John Cooper Works, S), and 2008-2014 Volkswagen Golf (GTI, GTI Autobahn, GTI S, GTI SE, Golf R, R, R32), plus 73 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $50 to $32,000.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 87 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0012, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices are approximate and may vary.
Vehicles Affected (76)
EA888 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.0T Supercharged)
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (2.0 TFSI Engine)
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (4.2L V8 & 3.0T)
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (2.0 TFSI Engine)
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (Catastrophic Engine Damage)
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (Class Action Settlement)
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.2L V6 & 4.2L V8)
B6/B7 4.2L V8 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
VANOS Solenoid/System Issues
N63 Turbocharger Wastegate Rattle & Failure - xDrive50i
VANOS Solenoid & System Failure - E85/E89 Z4 (All Engines)
VANOS High-Pressure Pump & Line Failure (CATASTROPHIC) - E60 M5
N63 V8 Timing Chain Failure (Catastrophic) - xDrive50i
S63 VANOS Solenoid Failure - E70/F85/F95 X5 M
N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure (Catastrophic) - F30 320i/328i
N63 Timing Chain Stretch & Guide Failure (E71/F16 xDrive50i)
N20 Timing Chain Guide Failure (Catastrophic) - F10 528i
N63 V8 Timing Chain Failure & Valve Stem Seals (Catastrophic)
N63TU3 Timing Chain Guide Wear (M850i)
N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - E84 X1
N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - F22/F23 228i
N20 Timing Chain Premature Failure - 428i F32/F33/F36
3.6L V6 Timing Chain Issues (XT5 V6 models)
3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch - SRX
3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch (ATS V6 models)
3.6L V6 Timing Chain Concern (XT6)
3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch - XTS
3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch and Premature Failure
5.0L Coyote Engine Tick/Knock Noise at Idle
5.4L 3V Triton Cam Phaser and Timing Chain Failure
5.0L Coyote Cam Phaser Tick/Rattle
3.5L EcoBoost First-Gen Timing Chain Stretch and Rattle
Water Pump Leak/Failure (3.5L EcoBoost)
3.5L EcoBoost V6 VCT Cam Phaser Rattle on Cold Start
3.5L V6 Timing Chain Stretch and VCT Phaser Rattle
Cam Phaser Rattle and Timing Chain Noise on 2.7L/3.0L EcoBoost
6.2L Boss Cam Phaser Knock
3.5L Duratec Cam Phaser Rattle
VTC Actuator Failure - Cold Start Rattle
Timing Chain VTC Actuator Rattle on Cold Start (8th Gen)
K24 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure - VTC Actuator Rattle (3rd Gen)
Critical Timing Belt and Water Pump Service
Timing Chain Rattle on Cold Start (K24A)
Timing Chain Stretch on 3.7L V6
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Actuator Failure
VVT Actuator Failure and Timing Chain Stretch
VVT Actuator Failure
N14/N18 Turbo Engine Timing Chain Catastrophic Failure
N12/N16 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
Valve Cover and VANOS Solenoid Oil Leaks
VANOS Solenoid Issues (N18/B48 Engines)
N14/N18 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
Timing Chain Guide and Tensioner Failure (VQ40DE)
Timing Chain Guide Failure (VQ40DE Engine)
Timing Chain Guide Failure (VK56DE Engine)
Timing Chain Stretch and Rattle (MR20DD Engine)
Timing Chain Stretch (MR16DDT Engine)
KA24DE Timing Chain Guide Wear and Rattle
KA24E Timing Chain Guide Failure
EA888 Gen1/Gen2 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (TSI)
2.5L 5-Cylinder Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
1.8T/2.0T EA888 Timing Chain Stretch
EA888 2.0T Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
VR6 3.6L Timing Chain Stretch and Rattle
EA888 2.0T Timing Chain and Tensioner Failure
Camshaft Adjuster (Phaser) Failure
FAQ
What does P0012 mean?
P0012 stands for "Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)." This code means the intake camshaft timing on Bank 1 is more retarded than the computer commanded — the variable valve timing system isn't reaching its target position. The computer controls camshaft timing through an oil-fed actuator (cam phaser) and a control solenoid; when actual timing lags the desired setting, this code sets. It is commonly caused by oil flow problems (low, dirty, or wrong oil), a stuck solenoid, or a worn cam phaser. Symptoms can include rough idle, reduced power, poor fuel economy, and sometimes rattling on startup.
What are the most common causes of P0012?
The most common causes of P0012 are: Low, dirty, or incorrect-viscosity engine oil, Faulty or stuck intake camshaft (VVT) oil control solenoid, Worn or stuck camshaft phaser/actuator, Clogged solenoid screen or oil passages, Wiring or connector problems at the solenoid, Timing chain wear or stretch affecting cam timing, Faulty camshaft position sensor. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0012?
Repair costs for P0012 range from $50 to $32,000, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0012?
Au7o has documented P0012 across 76 vehicle models from 18 manufacturers: Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Lincoln, MINI, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen.
Sources (12)
- videoEricTheCarGuy - Timing Chain Replacement on 3.7L Mazda CX-9
- NHTSANHTSA Complaint #11415968
- articleHow to Fix the Cam Timing System in Ford's Troublesome Modular 3-Valve V8
- ForumFord Expedition Forum - 5.4L 3V Mileage vs. Symptoms Thread
- articleFord Triton Timing Chain Problem and Solution - FixMyOldRide
- mediaCarTruckInfo: Chevy Traverse And GMC Acadia Timing Chain Problems
- ForumGM Inside News: 3.6L timing chain error p0008
- ForumAcadia Forum: P0017 Code Timing Chains?
- mediaGoTech: GM 3.6L Timing Chain Problems Symptoms, Codes & Fix
- ForumAcadia Forum: Timing change stretch codes P0011 P0016 and P0017
- ForumAcadia Forum: Stretched Timing Chain
- videoEricTheCarGuy - Diagnosing and Fixing 5.0L Coyote Cam Phaser Noise
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.