P0012 on GMC
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
P0012 on GMC vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-retarded (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 1 GMC model — most commonly on Acadia. 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 GMC range from $1,500 to $5,500, 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 GMC by Model
GMC Acadia(2 issues)
- 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Stretch and Premature Failure2007-2016
The 3.6L LLT and LFX V6 engines in 2007-2016 Acadia are notorious for premature timing chain stretch and guide failure, typically between 60,000-120,000 miles. The engines use three separate timing chains (primary and two secondary), and all three are subject to premature stretch. Stretched chains cause cam timing correlation codes (P0008, P0009, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019), rough running, and potential catastrophic engine damage if a chain jumps a tooth or breaks. Low oil level and using non-Dexos oil accelerates wear. GM issued TSB 09-06-01-008 acknowledging the issue.
- 3.6L V6 Internal Water Pump Failure and Coolant Leak2007-2023
The 3.6L V6 engines (all generations) in the Acadia use a timing chain-driven internal water pump located inside the engine block rather than a traditional externally-driven pump. The internal water pump impeller is plastic and is prone to cracking or separating from the shaft between 80,000-140,000 miles. When the impeller fails, the engine loses coolant circulation leading to rapid overheating. Because the pump is internal, it is only accessible during timing chain work — making this a very expensive repair if done as a standalone job.
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View P0012 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0012 mean on GMC?▼
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 GMC specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0012 on GMC vehicles?▼
Common causes on GMC: 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 GMC?▼
Repair costs on GMC range from $1,500 to $5,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which GMC models have P0012 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0012 on 1 GMC model: Acadia.