AutoCodes – Toyota – P0012 2011 Toyota Camry

P0012 2011 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 2011 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 12,572

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 Jul 03, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0012 2011 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 2011 Toyota Camry - Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com — P0012 2011 Toyota Camry Code - Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0012 2011 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
Damaged ECM

How to Fix the DTC P0012 2011 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0012 2011 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 2011 Toyota Camry code?

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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 2011 Toyota Camry Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0012 in a 2011 Toyota Camry?

- Common symptoms include poor engine performance, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency, and in some cases, the Check Engine light may illuminate.

2. What does the OBDII code P0012 'Camshaft Position 'A' Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1' mean for a 2011 Toyota Camry?

- This code indicates that the camshaft timing on Bank 1 is over-retarded, meaning that the timing is delayed beyond the acceptable parameters.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0012 in a 2011 Toyota Camry?

- Common causes include a faulty camshaft position sensor, a malfunctioning variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid, issues with the timing chain or belt, or engine oil-related problems.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0012 in my 2011 Toyota Camry?

- Diagnosing the issue may involve checking the camshaft position sensor, inspecting the VVT solenoid, examining the timing chain or belt for wear, and ensuring proper engine oil levels and quality.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P0012 in a 2011 Toyota Camry cause further damage?

- Continuing to drive with this code present can potentially cause damage to the engine, affect fuel economy, and lead to more severe issues if left unresolved.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0012 in my 2011 Toyota Camry?

- Repair methods may include replacing the camshaft position sensor, the VVT solenoid, addressing timing chain/belt issues, or performing an oil change and ensuring proper oil viscosity.

7. Is it safe to reset the Check Engine light after diagnosing and repairing OBDII code P0012 in a 2011 Toyota Camry?

- It is recommended to reset the Check Engine light after fixing the underlying issue. If the light reappears, further diagnosis may be required to ensure the problem is fully resolved.

8. What is the typical cost to repair OBDII code P0012 in a 2011 Toyota Camry at a mechanic or dealership?

- The cost to repair this code can vary depending on the specific cause, but it may range from $200 to $800, including parts and labor.

9. Can I fix OBDII code P0012 in my 2011 Toyota Camry myself, or should I seek professional help?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address simpler causes like sensor replacement, complex issues such as timing chain problems are best left to professional mechanics.

10. How often does OBDII code P0012 occur in 2011 Toyota Camry vehicles, and is it a common issue?

- While not extremely common, OBDII code P0012 can occur in 2011 Toyota Camry vehicles due to various factors, including age, mileage, and maintenance history.