P0038 2020 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 2020 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 2020 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 2020 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 2020 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 2020 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.
Need more information about the P0038 2020 Ford F150 code?
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Frequently Asked Questions about P0038 2020 Ford F150 Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 on a 2020 Ford F150?
The common symptoms of P0038 include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine misfires, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.
2. What does the OBDII code P0038 on a 2020 Ford F150 indicate?
P0038 indicates a problem with the HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) Heater Control Circuit for Bank 1 Sensor 2, specifically that the heater circuit has a high voltage condition.
3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0038 on a 2020 Ford F150?
Possible causes of P0038 include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
4. How can I diagnose the HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2 issue on my 2020 Ford F150?
Diagnosing P0038 involves checking the oxygen sensor heater circuit for continuity, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the sensor's resistance and voltage.
5. Can I continue driving my 2020 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0038?
It is not recommended to continue driving with a P0038 fault code, as it can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, engine performance issues, and potential damage to the catalytic converter.
6. How can I repair OBDII code P0038 on my 2020 Ford F150?
Repairing P0038 may involve replacing the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, checking and replacing fuses if necessary, and clearing the fault code.
7. Will resetting the Check Engine Light resolve OBDII code P0038 on a 2020 Ford F150?
Simply resetting the Check Engine Light will not fix the underlying issue causing P0038. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the fault code.
8. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2020 Ford F150?
The cost of repairing P0038 can vary depending on the cause of the issue, but it may range from $150 to $400, including parts and labor.
9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0038 on a 2020 Ford F150?
If you have experience with automotive repairs and access to the necessary tools, you may be able to diagnose and repair P0038 yourself. However, if you are unsure, it is best to seek professional help.
10. How often does OBDII code P0038 occur in a 2020 Ford F150?
P0038 is a relatively uncommon OBDII code in a 2020 Ford F150, but it can still occur due to various factors such as sensor wear, electrical issues, or other malfunctions.
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