Toyota Fortuner 2TR-FE 2.7 Petrol problem: P0012 A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1

[aziz.japanwalla]

I have a 2017-18 Toyota Fortuner 2TR-FE 2.7 Petrol 4x4 showing Engine Check-Light. 86,000 kms. driven.
Problem shown on scanner: P0012 A Camshaft Position - Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1.
First the auto mechanic said that it might be due to Cam Sensor issue, but later he looked up the internet with the given code P0012 A and said that it may be due to V-Tec Sensor issue. He cleaned the Cam-Sensor with cloth and the V-Tec Sensor with Nasa Spray but the issue remains.
Please help to advise what may be the issue and how to resolve the same.
Thanks.

[syncview]

If the cam sensor and OCV (and its filter) are OK, its the timing chain that is stretched or the CAM timing sprockets that is worn down - proper fix for such is to replace timing chain, timing chain tensioner, guides and cam / crank timing sprockets.

[affanhaq94]

What kind of oil have you been using? What is the change interval? What is the current oil level?

Sometimes, the vvt solenoid, as above poster has outlined (ocv) can cause issues like this. Make sure it's working correctly.

You need someone with the appropriate diagnostic skills to find the issue. Before jumping at the timing chain, I would eliminate every other 'cheaper' alternative.

[Xulfiqar]

The ocv doesnt cause co relation codes on toyotas, you have a bad timing set.

This code also becomes a permanent pain in the neck if someone “faced” the cylinder head very aggressively at a machine shop. Toyota allows exactly “0.00mm” machining of vvt engine cylinder heads and blocks too.

[aziz.japanwalla]

The vehicle was recently purchased. So don't know which oil was used previously. Oil (and oil filter) was just changed after the checklight issue. Used PSO 5w-30.
Catalytic Converter was also cleaned by the local mechanic.