AutoCodes – Nissan – P0038 2012 Nissan Sentra

P0038 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 3,789

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0038 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 2012 Nissan Sentra - HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0038 2012 Nissan Sentra Code - HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0038 2012 Nissan Sentra?

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 2012 Nissan Sentra?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

See more pictures on link below

2007-2012 Nissan Sentra Air/Fuel Ratio - Oxygen Sensor Location

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0038 2012 Nissan Sentra 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.

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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 2012 Nissan Sentra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra indicate?

The code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra indicates a fault in the HO2S12 (Heated Oxygen Sensor 1, Bank 1) heater control circuit, specifically signaling a high voltage condition.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

Common symptoms of code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra include decreased fuel efficiency, engine misfires, rough idling, and in some cases, the Check Engine light may illuminate.

3. What are the potential causes of OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

Potential causes of code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra include a faulty HO2S12 sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a blown fuse related to the sensor, or issues with the vehicle's ECM (Engine Control Module).

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

To diagnose code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra, you can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code and then inspect the HO2S12 sensor, wiring, and connectors for any visible damage or signs of wear. Checking the related fuses and performing a voltage test may also be necessary.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

Repairing code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra may involve replacing the HO2S12 sensor if it is found to be faulty, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, checking and replacing blown fuses, or addressing any issues with the ECM.

6. Can I continue driving my 2012 Nissan Sentra with OBDII code P0038?

It is not recommended to continue driving your 2012 Nissan Sentra with OBDII code P0038 untreated, as it can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to other components over time.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

The cost of repairing OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

8. Will resetting the Check Engine light resolve OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

Resetting the Check Engine light will clear the code temporarily, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra. It is essential to diagnose and repair the problem to prevent it from recurring.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

A DIY enthusiast with automotive repair experience and the necessary tools may be able to diagnose and repair code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Sentra, especially if the issue is related to sensor replacement, wiring repairs, or fuse checks.

10. How often does OBDII code P0038 occur in a 2012 Nissan Sentra?

OBDII code P0038, indicating a HO2S12 heater control circuit high issue, can occur occasionally in a 2012 Nissan Sentra due to sensor wear, wiring issues, or other factors. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent its occurrence.