AutoCodes – Nissan – P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima

P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima Code - HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High

Quick Answer

Oxygen Sensors (O2S) or Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) need to reach a minimum operating temperature of 750 degrees F to produce an accurate voltage signal. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 fuse, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means
P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima indicates HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 fuse, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted.
Severity
Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?
The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.
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Code Popularity 3,756
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima Description

Oxygen Sensors (O2S) or Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) need to reach a minimum operating temperature of 750 degrees F to produce an accurate voltage signal. The faster the heated oxygen sensor reaches that temperature the faster the sensor will start sending an accurate signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM).
In order to achieve the require temperature, a heater element is included inside the heated oxygen sensor. The ECM controls the heated oxygen sensor heater element based on signals from the engine coolant temperature and engine load. The ECM controls the heater element circuit by allowing current flow to ground.
The ECM monitors the voltage signal received through the heater element circuit and determines the state of the circuit by comparing the voltage detected with the factory specifications.
OBDII Code P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima - HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High - AutoCodes.com
P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima Code - HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima?

  • Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 fuse
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima?

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 P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima 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 P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima code?

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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 P0038 2007 Nissan Maxima Code

1. What does OBDII code P0038 on a 2007 Nissan Maxima indicate?

- Code P0038 indicates a malfunction in the HO2S12 (Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2) heater control circuit, specifically that the circuit is registering a high voltage.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0038 fault on a 2007 Nissan Maxima?

- Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine misfires, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light on the dashboard.

3. What are the potential causes of a P0038 error code on a 2007 Nissan Maxima?

- The main causes of P0038 include a faulty HO2S12 sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the heater control circuit, a blown fuse, or a problem in the engine control module.

4. How can I diagnose a P0038 code on my 2007 Nissan Maxima?

- To diagnose a P0038 code, you can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code and then inspect the HO2S12 sensor, check the wiring and connectors for damage, and test the fuse related to the sensor circuit.

5. Can a P0038 code on a 2007 Nissan Maxima be fixed at home?

- Depending on the underlying cause, fixing a P0038 code may be possible at home by replacing the faulty HO2S12 sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a blown fuse. However, complex issues may require professional assistance.

6. Are there any repair tips for resolving a P0038 error on a 2007 Nissan Maxima?

- When repairing a P0038 code, ensure the engine is turned off and cool, use the appropriate tools for sensor replacement, and carefully inspect all related components for any signs of damage or wear.

7. Is it safe to continue driving with a P0038 fault code on a 2007 Nissan Maxima?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with a P0038 fault code as it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, engine performance issues, and potential damage to other components in the vehicle.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair a P0038 code on a 2007 Nissan Maxima?

- The cost of repairing a P0038 code can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor if the repair is straightforward.

9. Can a P0038 code on a 2007 Nissan Maxima cause emissions testing failure?

- Yes, a P0038 code can result in emissions testing failure due to the impact on the vehicle's emissions control system caused by the malfunctioning HO2S12 sensor.

10. How often does a P0038 code occur in a 2007 Nissan Maxima?

- While the occurrence of a P0038 code can vary, it is not a common issue in a 2007 Nissan Maxima. If the code does appear, it should be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.

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