AutoCodes – Toyota – P0012 2007 Toyota Camry

P0012 2007 Toyota Camry Code - Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the Oil Control Valve (OCV) to regulate the intake camshaft angle. Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Faulty variable valve timing (VVT), Faulty oil control valve (OCV). Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0012 2007 Toyota Camry indicates Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Faulty variable valve timing (VVT), Faulty oil control valve (OCV).
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 18,004

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 26, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0012 2007 Toyota Camry Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the Oil Control Valve (OCV) to regulate the intake camshaft angle. As a result of the angle change, the engine timing is advance or retard. Optimizing engine timing will help the engine improve torque and fuel economy, and the exhaust emissions decrease under overall driving conditions. The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system includes the Oil Control Valve (OCV) and VVT controller. The ECM detects the actual intake valve timing using signals from the camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, and performs feedback control.

OBDII Code P0012 2007 Toyota Camry - Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com — P0012 2007 Toyota Camry Code - Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0012 2007 Toyota Camry?

Low or Dirty Engine Oil
Faulty variable valve timing (VVT)
Faulty oil control valve (OCV)
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) harness is open or shorted
Oil Control Valve (OCV) harness circuit is open or shorted
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0012 2007 Toyota Camry?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

There is a factory service bulletin for the 2007 Toyota Camry:

2007 Toyota Camry Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P0012

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0012 2007 Toyota Camry code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0012 2007 Toyota Camry code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0012 2007 Toyota Camry code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0012 2007 Toyota Camry Code

1. What are the common symptoms of the OBDII code P0012 in a 2007 Toyota Camry?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, poor acceleration, engine misfires, and decreased fuel efficiency.

2. What does the OBDII code P0012 'Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1' mean for a 2007 Toyota Camry?

- This code indicates that the camshaft timing on bank 1 is over-retarded, potentially causing issues with engine performance.

3. What are the possible causes of the P0012 code in a 2007 Toyota Camry?

- Causes may include a faulty camshaft position sensor, a problem with the camshaft phaser, timing chain issues, or low engine oil levels.

4. How can I diagnose the P0012 code in my 2007 Toyota Camry?

- Diagnosing the code typically involves checking the camshaft position sensor, inspecting the timing chain, examining the camshaft phaser, and ensuring proper engine oil levels.

5. Can driving with the P0012 code in a 2007 Toyota Camry cause further damage?

- Continuing to drive with the P0012 code may lead to engine damage over time, so it is recommended to address the issue promptly.

6. What are some repair tips for fixing the P0012 code in a 2007 Toyota Camry?

- Repair tips may include replacing the camshaft position sensor, inspecting and potentially replacing the timing chain, and ensuring the camshaft phaser is functioning correctly.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my 2007 Toyota Camry with the P0012 code pending?

- It is generally not recommended to drive with a pending P0012 code, as it can lead to further engine issues and potential breakdowns.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the P0012 code in a 2007 Toyota Camry?

- The cost of repairs for the P0012 code can vary depending on the underlying issue, but it may range from a couple of hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.

9. Can I reset the OBDII code P0012 in my 2007 Toyota Camry without fixing the issue?

- While you can clear the code temporarily, it is essential to address the root cause to prevent further problems and potential engine damage.

10. Will the check engine light turn off on its own after fixing the P0012 code in a 2007 Toyota Camry?

- Once the underlying issue causing the P0012 code is resolved, the check engine light should turn off on its own after a few driving cycles if no other issues are detected.