P0012 on Hyundai
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
P0012 on Hyundai vehicles indicates intake camshaft position timing - over-retarded (bank 1). Au7o has documented this code across 2 Hyundai models — most commonly on Azera, Santa Fe. 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 Hyundai 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 Hyundai by Model
Hyundai Azera(1 issue)
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda)2006-2011
The 3.3L and 3.8L Lambda V6 engines in the Azera use timing chains with hydraulic tensioners that can fail due to oil pressure loss or internal wear. The tensioner relies on consistent oil pressure to maintain chain tension, and low oil levels or degraded oil can cause the tensioner to lose pressure, resulting in chain slack and noise. In severe cases, the chain can jump timing, causing valve-to-piston contact on these interference engines. Regular oil changes and maintaining proper oil levels are critical.
Hyundai Santa Fe(1 issue)
- CVVT Actuator / Oil Control Valve Failure2007-2019
The Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) actuator and its associated oil control valve (OCV) on the Santa Fe's Theta II engine can fail, causing rough idle, poor fuel economy, and check engine lights. The OCV gets clogged with sludge from extended oil change intervals, and the CVVT actuator's internal components wear out. This issue can also trigger timing-related fault codes and affect emissions.
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What does P0012 mean on Hyundai?▼
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 Hyundai specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P0012 on Hyundai vehicles?▼
Common causes on Hyundai: 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 Hyundai?▼
Repair costs on Hyundai range from $300 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Hyundai models have P0012 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0012 on 2 Hyundai models: Azera, Santa Fe.