So I just got my truck back from an oil change and brake replacement on Tuesday. Drove it to work yesterday and it was fine until I stopped to back up into my usual parking spot. The truck started shaking, knocking, stuttering like crazy. I tapped the gas and it recovers, but as soon as the revs drop, it goes back to the shaking/knocking/stuttering.

Got a P0012 code for VCT stuck open and my timing is retarded. The only good news is that now the ticking is gone.

I reset the computer, but it's still doing it so she's back at the shop today. Can't wait to see what the mechanic says...

Any ideas/input? (Besides selling it and getting a Titan. My father's 04 has never given him an ounce of trouble...ever.)

 

Sitting here stewing on this situation...would it make sense to assume the VCT's are in fact bad, if the notorious "ticking" sound is gone now? If it weren't for the noticeable loss in power, I'd say the engine is running as smooth as it ever has LOL. No ticking, no diesel sound.

 

You should at least check your vct valves.

I had one stuck open, cause of a broken screen.
Search for my thread "code p0016 rough idle"

 

Well my mechanic ended up replacing both VCT's and it seems to be running fine now. Actually, it's probably running the best it ever has since I've owned it. The ticking is gone too, which is a plus.

I've been driving it like I stole it since I picked it up yesterday and it's all systems go for now. Fingers crossed...

 

I dealt with that noise for years, till I said screw it, and changed out my vct's and moved up 5/30 synthetic and she's been purring like new since.