P0012 on Nissan: How to Diagnose & Fix
Intake Camshaft Position Timing - Over-Retarded (Bank 1)
3 Nissan models · 3 documented issues · 3 critical · $800-$4,000 repair
P0012 on Nissan by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Xterra VQ40DE 4.0L V6 shares the same timing chain guide failure as the Frontier. The plastic guides deteriorate and shatter, causing chain rattle and potential catastrophic engine damage. This issue typically occurs between 80,000-130,000 miles and is the second most common Xterra problem after SMOD.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on cold start
- Chain rattle at idle
- Check engine light with timing codes
- Metal debris in oil
- Engine running rough
How to Fix
Replace all timing chain guides, tensioners, and chains. Use updated Nissan parts or Cloyes aftermarket kit. Labor-intensive repair requiring 8-12 hours. Cost: $1,500-3,000. Address immediately upon hearing any chain rattle.
Sources for this issue (3)
The Nissan Titan VK56DE 5.6L V8 suffers from premature timing chain guide failure, similar to the Frontier VQ40DE but more expensive to repair. The plastic chain guides crack and break, causing chain rattle and potential catastrophic engine damage. The issue typically manifests between 80,000-150,000 miles. Nissan later updated the timing chain, so the issue mainly affects earlier (pre-2012) trucks.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on cold start
- Persistent timing chain rattle
- Check engine light with camshaft position codes
- Rough running engine
- Metal fragments in oil during changes
How to Fix
Replace all four timing chain guides, tensioners, and chains. This is a major repair requiring 12-16 hours of labor. Use updated genuine Nissan guides and chains for the VK56DE (confirm part numbers by VIN with a Nissan parts counter). Total cost: $2,000-4,000. Some owners report success with aftermarket VK56DE timing chain kits.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan VK56DE passenger/right slack-side guide 13091-7S000
Confirm VIN and supersession.
- Genuine Nissan VK56DE driver/left slack-side guide 13091-7S012
2004-2015 Titan 5.6L VK56DE; left/driver bank; supersedes 13091-7S010 and 13091-7S011. Fitment/availability: Ships in 1-2 business days and add-to-cart live at review
- Genuine Nissan VK56DE passenger/right tension-side guide 13085-7S002
2004-2015 Titan 5.6L VK56DE; right/passenger bank; supersedes 13085-7S001. Fitment/availability: Ships in 1-2 business days and add-to-cart live at review
- Genuine Nissan VK56DE driver/left tension-side guide 13085-7S012
2004-2015 Titan 5.6L VK56DE; left/driver bank; supersedes 13085-7S011. Fitment/availability: Ships in 1-2 business days and add-to-cart live at review
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Sources for this issue (1)
The Juke MR16DDT engine timing chain can deteriorate and stretch prematurely; Nissan attributed the condition to fuel characteristics in the North American market. The chain tensioner cannot compensate for excessive stretch, leading to timing issues and potential engine damage. Nissan states the issue is unique to the Juke's MR16DDT engine; 2011-13 Jukes built at Oppama from March 2010 to November 2012 were covered by voluntary service campaign P4213, which expired April 29, 2016.
Common Symptoms
- Rattling noise on startup
- Check engine light with P0011/P0014
- Rough idle
- Poor acceleration
- Engine misfires
How to Fix
Replace timing chain, tensioner, and guides. Use updated Nissan timing chain kit. Job costs $800-1,500 at an independent shop. For 2011-13 models, check whether Nissan service campaign P4213 (timing chain, guides and crank sprocket replacement) was completed.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Nissan timing-chain kit A3028-1KC3A (superseded to A3028-1KC4A)
Confirm VIN, current supersession and the complete bulletin/ESM bill; this kit alone is not every required seal, bolt or sprocket.
- Genuine Nissan crankshaft sprocket 13021-CK80A (superseded to 13021-CK83A)
Cataloged for 2012-2015 Juke MR16DDT, but this repair path is limited to applicable 2011-2013 campaign-era vehicles and must be VIN/current-supersession checked. Follow the bulletin for the 2011 production branch.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Sources for this issue (3)
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 Nissan?
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 Nissan it is documented across 3 models: Xterra, Titan, Juke.
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 Nissan?
Published repair estimates on Nissan range from $800 to $4,000 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.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.