AutoCodes – Ford – P0012 2018 Ford F150

P0012 2018 Ford F150 Code - 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1

Quick Answer

The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) solenoid valve is an integral part of the VCT system. Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Incorrect camshaft timing, Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 1 Solenoid 1 (VCT11). 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 2018 Ford F150 indicates 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1.
Common causes: Common causes include Low or Dirty Engine Oil, Incorrect camshaft timing, Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 1 Solenoid 1 (VCT11).
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 636

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 Aug 28, 2023

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0012 2018 Ford F150 Description

The Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) solenoid valve is an integral part of the VCT system. The solenoid valve controls the flow of engine oil in the VCT actuator assembly. As the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the duty cycle of the solenoid valve, oil pressure/flow advances or retards the cam timing. Duty cycles near 0% or 100% represent the rapid movement of the camshaft. Retaining a fixed camshaft position is accomplished by dithering (oscillating) the solenoid valve duty cycle.
The PCM calculates and determines the desired camshaft position. It continually updates the VCT solenoid duty cycle until the desired position is achieved. A difference between the desired and actual camshaft position represents a position error in the PCM VCT control loop. The PCM disables the VCT and places the camshaft in a default position if a concern is detected. A related Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) also sets when the concern is detected.
When the VCT solenoid is energized, engine oil is allowed to flow to the VCT actuator assembly which advances or retards the camshaft timing. One half of the VCT actuator is coupled to the camshaft and the other half is connected to the timing chain. Oil chambers between the 2 halves couple the camshaft to the timing chain. When the flow of oil is shifted from one side of the chamber to the other, the differential change in oil pressure forces the camshaft to rotate in either an advance or retard position depending on the oil flow.
This DTC sets when the VCT position is over-retarded. This DTC sets when the camshaft timing exceeds a maximum calibrated value or remains in a retarded position.

OBDII Code P0012 2018 Ford F150 - 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com — P0012 2018 Ford F150 Code - 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0012 2018 Ford F150?

Low or Dirty Engine Oil
Incorrect camshaft timing
Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Bank 1 Solenoid 1 (VCT11)
Faulty Camshaft Position (CMP) Bank 1 Sensor 1 (CMP11)
Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 1 Solenoid 1 circuit is open or shorted
Variable Camshaft Timing Bank 1 Solenoid 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Camshaft Position Bank 1 Sensor 1 circuit is open or shorted
Camshaft Position Bank 1 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Variable Camshaft Timing Phaser

How to Fix the DTC P0012 2018 Ford F150?

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

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) may be accompanied by other DTCs. Diagnose all Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor DTCs first. If no CMP sensor related DTCs are present, continue checking the Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) Solenoid.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0012 2018 Ford F150 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 2018 Ford F150 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 2018 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0012 in a 2018 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0012 in a 2018 Ford F150 include rough idling, reduced engine performance, poor fuel efficiency, and potential stalling.

2. What does the OBDII code P0012 'A' Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1 mean for a 2018 Ford F150?

The code P0012 indicates that the camshaft position sensor for Bank 1 is detecting that the camshaft timing is over-retarded, meaning that the timing of the camshaft is not in sync with the crankshaft.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0012 in a 2018 Ford F150?

Possible causes of code P0012 in a 2018 Ford F150 include a faulty camshaft position sensor, issues with the timing chain or belt, a malfunctioning variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid, or low engine oil levels.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0012 in my 2018 Ford F150?

Diagnosing code P0012 may involve performing a visual inspection of the camshaft position sensor, checking the timing chain or belt for proper tension, testing the VVT solenoid, and ensuring the engine oil levels are adequate.

5. Can I continue driving my 2018 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0012 present?

While it may be possible to drive with code P0012 present, it is not recommended as it can lead to further engine damage and potential safety issues. It is advisable to have the issue diagnosed and repaired promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0012 in my 2018 Ford F150?

Repairing code P0012 may involve replacing the camshaft position sensor, addressing any timing chain or belt issues, replacing the VVT solenoid if necessary, and ensuring proper engine oil levels and quality.

7. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code P0012 in a 2018 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily clear the warning light, but the problem will persist and could lead to more severe engine issues. It is essential to fix the root cause of the code.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0012 in a 2018 Ford F150?

The cost of repairing code P0012 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, labor rates, and parts needed. It is recommended to consult a mechanic or dealership for an accurate estimate.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0012 in a 2018 Ford F150?

While some aspects of diagnosing and repairing code P0012 may be tackled by experienced DIY enthusiasts, it is a complex issue that may require specialized tools and expertise. It is advisable to seek professional help for proper diagnosis and repair.

10. How often does OBDII code P0012 occur in a 2018 Ford F150?

Code P0012 is not uncommon in vehicles with variable valve timing systems like the 2018 Ford F150. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and inspections, can help prevent issues that may trigger this code.