P0012 on Dodge: How to Diagnose & Fix
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
3 Dodge models · 3 documented issues · 1 critical · $800-$2,500 repair
P0012 on Dodge by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The water pump on the 3.6L Pentastar V6 can fail, causing coolant leaks and overheating. The pump is internal and driven by the timing chain, making replacement labor-intensive. Typically fails between 80,000-120,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- Coolant leak
- Overheating engine
- Low coolant warning
- Sweet coolant smell
- White residue near pump area
How to Fix
Replace water pump when symptoms appear or preventatively during timing chain service. Replace thermostat at same time. Consider timing chain inspection if high mileage.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Mopar 68667064AA Pentastar water-pump assembly
Replace a leaking or noisy 3.6L water pump after diagnosis Fitment: Current supersession for applicable 2011-2021 Durango 3.6L branches; verify VIN because retailer fitment tables expose subsets $230.40 on a live US OEM direct product pa…
- Mopar 05184651AH thermostat with housing
Thermostat replacement branch during the verified early water-pump repair Fitment: 2011-2015 Durango 3.6L only; later years require a different verified supersession Live direct US product page when checked
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Sources for this issue (1)
The timing chain tensioner and guides wear prematurely, especially when incorrect oil weight is used (5W-30 instead of the required 5W-20). Causes rattling on startup, performance deterioration, and can lead to engine destruction if chain jumps.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on startup
- Engine performance deterioration
- Check engine light with timing codes
- Misfires
- Complete engine failure if chain jumps
How to Fix
Replace timing chain, tensioner, and guides as a complete set. Use ONLY 5W-20 oil as specified - incorrect oil weight accelerates tensioner wear significantly.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Cloyes 9-0393SX complete timing-chain kit
Replace worn chains, tensioners, guides and arms as a complete matched set Fitment: Retailer lists 2000-2006 Dodge Dakota 4.7L; it does not cover this issue's 2007 endpoint $193.99 and three in stock when checked
- Cloyes 9-0393SD OE-replacement timing set
Alternate kit for the NGC-design branch after confirming the design against VIN/production date Fitment: Retail page lists 2002-2007 Dodge/Jeep/Mitsubishi 4.7L applications; exact Dakota year/design confirmation required Live direct US p…
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Sources for this issue (1)
The MultiAir variable valve timing solenoids fail causing check engine light with VVT codes, rough idle, loss of power, and poor fuel economy. Individual solenoids not available separately from Mopar - entire MultiAir assembly must be replaced.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with variable valve timing codes
- Rough idle
- Loss of power
- Poor fuel economy
- Valve tick noise
How to Fix
Replace entire MultiAir assembly (individual solenoids not sold separately by Mopar). Labor-intensive as it requires valve cover removal and special tooling.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Mopar 05047980AE complete MultiAir electro-hydraulic actuator assembly
Replace the complete actuator after oil-pressure, wiring and cylinder-specific diagnosis confirms internal actuator failure Fitment: 2013-2016 Dart 2.4L Tigershark only; the 1.4L turbo uses a different assembly and early-production super…
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Sources for this issue (1)
P0012 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0012 mean on a Dodge?
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 Dodge it is documented across 3 models: Durango, Dakota, Dart.
What are the most common causes of P0012?
The most common causes of P0012 are: 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. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0012 on a Dodge?
Published repair estimates on Dodge range from $800 to $2,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0012 on a different make?
View P0012 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.