Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Code P012, No Distributor Reference Signal: Notes
PCM checks for CAM HI pulses being received without REF HI (distributor) pulses. If PCM senses no reference pulses, engine will not start because fuel delivery system is triggered by pulses and Code P012 is set.
Possible causes of no distributor reference signals are, open or short on circuit No. 430 from ignition control module to PCM, ignition control module unable to process pick-up coil signals to produce distributor reference pulses, or grounding screw located on metal tab attached to plastic fitting on 5-wire harness.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.