Power terrain trouble code

Got in on ultragauge group buy......I am getting a code of0012

P0012 - "A" Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded (Bank 1)

Is this telling me my timing is off and time for a new timing belt? Not a mechanic and haven't read much into it yet. Thanks in advance.
08 DCLB trd sport 146,000 miles

 

Upon doing alittle research it suggest something to do with possibly the vct solenoid. I am wondering if my recent switch to mobil 1 synthetic oil (2000 miles ago) may have loosened some grim and is causing an issue? Any help will be much appreciated. Thanks

 

I would first suspect the cam-position sensor. Make sure its not sending a bad signal to the ECM. Easy to get at to test and/or replace on a 4-cyl, not sure about your 6

 

Thanks for advice. I will have to look at that

 

This is not an uncommon code. Many times the P0012 can be set by changing the viscosity of the engine oil. Have you made sure you are using the correct viscosity? You should ONLY use 5W30. That is the first thing to be sure of. After that the most common failures are the VVT actuator itself. I would not try to diagnose this yourself considering your admitted lack of experience. You can EASILY cause damage to the VVT system during testing if you are not careful.

 

I almost PM'ed you five min ago. You are always helping others with valuable info. I used Mobil 1 5-30 on the oil change.
I am not mechanically unable, however first to admit when it comes to engines I do not have the experience. With that said I have great aspirations to know my truck and being able to work on it is a must for that. I deafenatly do not want to cause issues and know there are professionals for some matters. Did not get to do much research today on my code. I will plan to take your advice and let a professional take a look.
My question would be do I need to get this address ASAP or see if it's an ongoing issue? My check engine light never came on, but my ultragauge picked up the code. Thanks a million for responding BamaToy!

 

That specific code is what is classified as a Class B code. That means that the failure has to occur during two consecutive ignition cycles before it will turn on the CEL.

Right now it appears it is a minor condition, but you would want to get it looked at before it starts to cause issues. The good news is that if the VVTI system has a complete failure, it won't cause damage to your engine, it just won't advance the cam timing any, and you might notice some top-end loss of power, but that is typically it.

 

Perfect.....thanks for your help.