P0012 on Cadillac
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
P0012 on Cadillac vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-retarded (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 6 Cadillac models — most commonly on ATS, CTS, SRX. 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. Typical repair costs on Cadillac range from $2,500 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0012
- •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
P0012 on Cadillac by Model
Cadillac ATS(1 issue)
- 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch (ATS V6 models)2013-2019
ATS models equipped with the 3.6L V6 (LFX/LGX) share the same timing chain stretch issue as the CTS. The three timing chains and plastic guides wear prematurely, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. The 2013-2015 LFX variant is most affected; the 2016+ LGX has improved chains but is not immune. Chain stretch causes timing correlation codes, misfires, and potential catastrophic engine damage if the chain jumps.
Cadillac CTS(1 issue)
- 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch and Premature Failure2004-2015
The GM 3.6L V6 (LY7, LLT, LFX variants) used in 2004-2015 CTS models is notorious for premature timing chain stretch, typically between 80,000-120,000 miles. The engine uses three timing chains (one primary, two secondary) and plastic chain guides that wear and break. When the chain stretches, it throws timing off, causing misfires and check engine lights. If the chain jumps or breaks, it can cause catastrophic valve-to-piston contact. This is the single most common and expensive CTS repair. GM updated the chain design for the 2012+ LFX variant, but early LFX engines still have issues.
Cadillac SRX(1 issue)
- 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch - SRX2010-2016
The 2010-2016 SRX with the 3.6L V6 (LFX/LF1) has the same endemic timing chain stretch issue as the CTS. The three timing chains and plastic guides wear prematurely between 80,000-120,000 miles. The SRX is the best-selling Cadillac of this era, making this one of the most common and costly Cadillac repairs. Chain stretch causes misfires, timing codes, rough running, and potential catastrophic engine damage if the chain jumps. The chain-driven water pump also commonly fails at similar mileage.
Cadillac XT5(1 issue)
- 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Issues (XT5 V6 models)2017-2025
The XT5 V6 models use the GM 3.6L V6 (LGX) which has improved timing chains over earlier versions but is not immune to timing chain stretch at higher mileage. The LGX is better than the earlier LFX but still uses three timing chains with plastic guides. Issues typically appear later (100,000-150,000 miles) compared to earlier 3.6L variants. The 2020+ XT5 2.0T models use a different engine (LSY) and are not affected by this issue.
Cadillac XT6(1 issue)
- 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Concern (XT6)2020-2025
The XT6 uses the GM 3.6L V6 (LGX) which has a documented history of timing chain stretch across the GM lineup. While the LGX generation is improved over earlier 3.6L variants, the three-chain design with plastic guides remains a long-term reliability concern. Most XT6s are still too new for widespread timing chain failures, but owners should monitor for early signs and plan for preventive replacement around 100,000-120,000 miles based on the engine's history in other models.
Cadillac XTS(1 issue)
- 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch - XTS2013-2019
The 2013-2019 XTS uses the GM 3.6L V6 (LFX, then LGX from 2016+) with the same timing chain stretch issue affecting CTS, SRX, and other GM 3.6L vehicles. The three timing chains and plastic guides wear prematurely between 80,000-120,000 miles. XTS models with the twin-turbo 3.6L (V-Sport) can have even earlier chain wear from the additional thermal stress.
Looking for P0012 on a different make?
View P0012 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0012 mean on Cadillac?▼
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. On Cadillac specifically, this code is documented across 6 models.
What causes P0012 on Cadillac vehicles?▼
Common causes on Cadillac: 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. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0012 on a Cadillac?▼
Repair costs on Cadillac range from $2,500 to $4,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Cadillac models have P0012 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0012 on 6 Cadillac models: ATS, CTS, SRX, XT5, XT6, XTS.