P0012 on Chevrolet
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
P0012 on Chevrolet vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-retarded (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 2 Chevrolet models — most commonly on Colorado, Equinox. 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 Chevrolet range from $800 to $4,000, 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 Chevrolet by Model
Chevrolet Colorado(1 issue)
- Water Pump Failure (3.6L V6)2015-2023
The water pump on the 3.6L V6 can fail, causing coolant leaks and potential overheating. The pump is driven by the timing chain, making replacement labor-intensive as it requires significant disassembly to access.
Chevrolet Equinox(1 issue)
- 2.4L Ecotec Timing Chain Premature Failure2010-2013
The 2.4L Ecotec engine is prone to premature timing chain failure due to improperly hardened chains and faulty tensioners. A defective batch of timing chains that were not hardened properly causes the chains to stretch prematurely. When the timing chain fails or jumps teeth on the sprockets, it can cause catastrophic valve damage and complete engine failure.
Looking for P0012 on a different make?
View P0012 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0012 mean on Chevrolet?▼
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 Chevrolet specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P0012 on Chevrolet vehicles?▼
Common causes on Chevrolet: 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 Chevrolet?▼
Repair costs on Chevrolet range from $800 to $4,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Chevrolet models have P0012 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0012 on 2 Chevrolet models: Colorado, Equinox.