P0038 2016 Ford F150 Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2
Quick Answer
The HO2S detects the presence of oxygen in the exhaust and produces a variable voltage according to the amount of oxygen detected. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 (HO2S12), Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 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
- P0038 2016 Ford F150 indicates HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 (HO2S12), Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 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.
Code P0038 2016 Ford F150 Description
When the oxygen sensor is cold, disconnected, or on initial start-up, the voltage may read between 1.5 to 1.7 volts. The oxygen sensor voltage will decrease to the normal operating range of 0.0 to 1.1 volts during warm, stabilized engine running conditions.
The HO2S heater is embedded with a sensing element. The heating element heats the sensor to a temperature of 800°C (1,472°F). At approximately 300°C (572°F) the engine enters closed loop operation. The heater allows the engine to enter closed loop operation sooner.
The PCM controls the Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1, Sensor 2 (HO2S12) heater ON and OFF duty cycle to maintain a calibrated temperature. This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is set when the sensor does not warm up to the required temperature in a calibrated amount of time. This DTC is also set when the PCM is not able to maintain the required temperature after the sensor is warmed.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0038 2016 Ford F150?
- Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 (HO2S12)
- Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground
- Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P0038 2016 Ford F150?
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 2016 Ford F150 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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Frequently Asked Questions about P0038 2016 Ford F150 Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 on a 2016 Ford F150?
- Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine stalling, and the Check Engine Light being illuminated.
2. What does the OBDII code P0038 "HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2" mean for a 2016 Ford F150?
- This code indicates that there is a malfunction in the oxygen sensor heater control circuit for the downstream sensor on bank 1.
3. What are some possible causes of OBDII code P0038 on a 2016 Ford F150?
- Potential causes include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a blown fuse, or issues with the PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0038 on my 2016 Ford F150?
- Diagnosis involves checking the oxygen sensor heater circuit for continuity, inspecting wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the sensor's resistance.
5. Can I continue driving my 2016 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0038?
- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code unresolved, as it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and potential engine performance issues.
6. How do I repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2016 Ford F150?
- Repair may involve replacing the downstream oxygen sensor on bank 1, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or addressing any other issues identified during diagnosis.
7. Is it possible to reset the Check Engine Light after fixing OBDII code P0038 on a 2016 Ford F150?
- Yes, the Check Engine Light can be reset using an OBDII scanner after the repair has been completed to clear the code and turn off the light.
8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2016 Ford F150?
- The cost can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but replacing the oxygen sensor or repairing wiring/connectors can range from $150 to $400 including parts and labor.
9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0038 on a 2016 Ford F150?
- Depending on your skills and tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to replace the oxygen sensor or repair wiring themselves. However, proper diagnosis is crucial.
10. How often does OBDII code P0038 occur on a 2016 Ford F150?
- While not extremely common, this code can still occur due to various factors affecting the oxygen sensor heater control circuit on a 2016 Ford F150.
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