U012E: Lost Communication With Camshaft Position Control Module

What it means

ECU lost CAN communication with camshaft position control module. The camshaft position sensor identifies which cylinder is on the compression stroke — without it the ECM cannot run sequential injection or coil-on-plug ignition correctly.

At a glance

• Usually lights the warning light of the system that lost communication
• Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test

How it works

The Camshaft Position Control Module communicates camshaft-control information to the engine controller over the vehicle network. This code sets when expected messages from that module are not received; depending on the vehicle, the engine may then lack camshaft information needed to coordinate valve timing and engine operation.

Common causes

Most likely first.

1. Module unpowered
2. Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly
3. CAN terminating resistor (120 Ω) drifted out of spec

Symptoms

• Multiple warning lights may illuminate
• Affected modules may go into limp mode or shut down
• Specific functions inoperative depending on module
• Diagnostic tools may show communication faults

How to diagnose it

1. Save freeze-frame data and scan the engine and related modules for camshaft, timing, and communication faults; establish whether the Camshaft Position Control Module alone fails to respond.
2. Check battery voltage and the module’s specified fuses, power feeds, and grounds before investigating the network.
3. Inspect the module connector and CAN wiring for looseness, corrosion, oil or water intrusion, and damaged insulation.
4. Check scan-tool communication with the Camshaft Position Control Module and verify that the gateway recognizes and routes its messages.
5. With power and ground confirmed, test the network circuit and termination to the manufacturer’s procedure and specification; do not replace camshaft sensors solely because this is a communication code.

Common fixes

• Restore battery or charging-system voltage if it is below the vehicle’s requirements.
• Repair the Camshaft Position Control Module’s blown fuse, power feed, ground, or connector fault.
• Repair damaged CAN wiring or a poor network connection to the module.
• Correct a confirmed gateway routing or configuration issue.
• Replace the Camshaft Position Control Module only after verifying its power, ground, and communication circuit.

Can I keep driving?

If the engine runs smoothly and no warning indicates an unsafe condition, keep trips short and avoid hard acceleration until diagnosed. Stop driving if the engine stalls, runs severely rough, or loses power; continued operation can worsen drivability and may increase emissions.