P0012 on Honda
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
P0012 on Honda vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-retarded (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 4 Honda models — most commonly on Civic, CR-V, Element. 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 Honda range from $300 to $2,500, 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 Honda by Model
Honda Civic(1 issue)
- Timing Chain VTC Actuator Rattle on Cold Start (8th Gen)2006-2011
The 8th generation Civic (2006-2011) equipped with the R18A and K20Z3 engines suffers from Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator failure causing a loud metallic rattling noise on cold startup that typically lasts 1-5 seconds before oil pressure builds. The actuator locks the cam timing and rattles when the internal ratchet mechanism wears. This is the same issue that plagued the 2006-2011 CR-V. Honda issued TSB 07-010 addressing the noise but stopped short of a recall. Continued driving with a failed VTC actuator can damage the timing chain and guides, leading to catastrophic engine failure.
Honda CR-V(2 issues)
- VTC Actuator Failure - Cold Start Rattle2012-2016
The Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator fails, causing a loud rattling or grinding noise for 1-2 seconds during cold engine startup. The issue is caused by the actuator's internal lock pin not engaging properly. If left unaddressed, this can lead to timing chain wear and potential engine damage.
- K24 Timing Chain Tensioner Failure - VTC Actuator Rattle (3rd Gen)2007-2011
The K24Z2 2.4L engine in the 3rd generation CR-V shares the same Variable Timing Control (VTC) actuator design flaw as the 2006-2011 Civic. The VTC actuator develops internal ratchet mechanism wear causing a loud metallic rattle on cold starts that lasts 1-5 seconds. The hydraulic timing chain tensioner also weakens over time, allowing chain slack. Honda issued TSB 07-010 addressing VTC actuator noise with improved actuator design. Ignored VTC rattles lead to timing chain elongation and guide wear, which can cause catastrophic engine failure on very high-mileage vehicles.
Honda Element(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Rattle on Cold Start (K24A)2003-2011
K24A engine timing chain tensioner wear causes rattling noise on cold start. Many Elements reach 200k+ miles without chain issues - don't replace unless confirmed diagnosis per Element community consensus. If persistent rattling: Replace timing chain, tensioner, guides, and VTC oil control solenoid together (complete kit, not individual parts). Honda TSB 09-10 references VTC actuator issues. Use OEM Honda parts for timing components.
Honda Odyssey(1 issue)
- Critical Timing Belt and Water Pump Service2005-2010
3.5L V6 engine uses interference design with timing belt (not chain). If timing belt breaks, valves collide with pistons causing catastrophic engine damage ($5,000-$8,000). Honda recommends timing belt replacement at 7 years or 105,000 miles. Water pump is driven by timing belt, making simultaneous replacement cost-effective. 2011+ Odysseys use timing chain (no replacement needed).
Looking for P0012 on a different make?
View P0012 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0012 mean on Honda?▼
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 Honda specifically, this code is documented across 4 models.
What causes P0012 on Honda vehicles?▼
Common causes on Honda: 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 Honda?▼
Repair costs on Honda range from $300 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Honda models have P0012 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0012 on 4 Honda models: Civic, CR-V, Element, Odyssey.