U012E code meaning
Lost Communication With Camshaft Position Control Module
Network system Generic code U01xx codes Check engine light
What U012E means
U012E applies to engines whose camshaft phaser is driven by its own electronic unit rather than an oil control solenoid, as with electric intake valve timing. Mitsubishi bulletin TSB-23-11-003 for the 2022 Outlander lists U012E next to U0101, U0122, U0146, U0155 and U042F as communication codes of the engine controller and links it in the warranty chart to the electric intake valve timing control module circuit. Without the module the engine controller cannot adjust intake timing, so power and exhaust quality suffer; the code counts as emissions relevant, and a MIL is to be expected, although no maker states it openly. U042F flags invalid data from the same unit; P0010 ff. cover the actuators themselves.
U012E at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyHard
- Typical labor1 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of U012E
- MIL on
- Reduced power and poorer response, especially at low engine speed
- Rough idle or higher fuel consumption
Common causes of U012E
- Most likelyPower or ground of the electric valve timing module interrupted
- PossibleCAN wiring or connector at the engine damaged by heat or oil
- Less likelyCamshaft position control module internally faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Cam position moduleCAN bus wiring
What each part of U012E means
| U | Network system: communication between the control modules (CAN bus). |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 2E | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note U012E and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about U012E
What does U012E mean?
U012E means "Lost Communication With Camshaft Position Control Module". U012E applies to engines whose camshaft phaser is driven by its own electronic unit rather than an oil control solenoid, as with electric intake valve timing. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with U012E?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With U012E the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will U012E fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. U012E is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is U012E to fix?
Difficulty: hard. A typical repair takes 1 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will U012E clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.