AutoCodesGeneric – B1388

B1388 Code - Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Short To Battery

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Oil Temperature Sensor. Common causes include Faulty Oil Temperature Sensor, Oil Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Oil Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
B1388 indicates Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Short To Battery.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Oil Temperature Sensor, Oil Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Oil Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 8,384
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 20, 2019
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Code B1388 Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the Oil Temperature Sensor. The PCM sets the OBDII code when the Oil Temperature Sensor is not to factory specifications.
OBDII Code B1388 - Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Short To Battery - AutoCodes.com
B1388 Code - Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Short To Battery

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1388?

  • Faulty Oil Temperature Sensor
  • Oil Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Oil Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC B1388?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1388 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the B1388 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1388 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1388 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

  • B1388 Hyundai — Driver Seat Track Position Sensor Short Or Short To Battery
  • B1388 KIA — Driver Seat Track Position Sensor Short Or Short To Battery
About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B1388 Code

What does the OBDII code B1388 mean?

B1388 refers to a malfunction in the oil temperature sensor circuit, indicating that there is a short to battery, which means the circuit is receiving higher voltage than normal.

What are the common symptoms of the B1388 code?

Symptoms can include warning lights on the dashboard, incorrect oil temperature readings, and potential engine performance issues due to improper oil temperature management.

What could cause the B1388 code to trigger?

Common causes include a defective oil temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or a short circuit within the wiring harness.

How can I diagnose the B1388 code?

Start by visually inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check the sensor's resistance and verify the voltage in the circuit to confirm if there’s a short.

What is the likely repair for a B1388 code?

Repairs typically involve replacing the faulty oil temperature sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or fixing any corroded connectors in the circuit.

Can I drive my vehicle with the B1388 code?

While it may be possible to drive the vehicle, it is not recommended as it can lead to engine damage due to improper oil temperature readings affecting lubrication.

How do I reset the B1388 code after repairs?

You can reset the code using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the vehicle's battery for a few minutes. Always ensure the issue is resolved before resetting.

Is there a risk of engine damage with a B1388 code?

Yes, if the oil temperature sensor is malfunctioning, it can lead to incorrect oil temperature readings, which may result in insufficient lubrication and potential engine damage.

What should I do if the B1388 code reappears after repairs?

If the code reappears, recheck the wiring and connections for any overlooked issues, and ensure that the replacement sensor is functioning correctly. It may also be advisable to have a professional diagnose the problem.

Discuss the causes and fixes for B1388 OBDII Code

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