AutoCodes – Ford – P1538 Ford

P1538 Ford Code - Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open Bank 2

Quick Answer

The Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) is an electrically actuated system consisting of a motorized actuator with an attaching linkage for each housing on each bank. Common causes include Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) actuator, Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator harness is open or shorted, Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator 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: P1538 Ford indicates Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open Bank 2.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) actuator, Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator harness is open or shorted, Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator 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.

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Code Popularity 29,026

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 03, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1538 Ford Description

The Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) is an electrically actuated system consisting of a motorized actuator with an attaching linkage for each housing on each bank. The linkage attaches to the housing butterfly plate levers. Each IMRC housing is an aluminum casting with two intake air passages for each cylinder. One passage is always open, and the other is opened and closed with a butterfly valve plate. The housing uses a return spring to hold the plates closed. The motorized actuator houses internal switches to provide feedback to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), indicating linkage and plate position. Under about 3000 rpm, the vacuum solenoid will be energized. This will allow the manifold vacuum to be applied and the butterfly valve plates to stay closed. Above approximately 3000 rpm, the vacuum solenoid will be de-energized. This will allow a vacuum to vent from the actuator and the butterfly valve plates to open. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the IMRC is commanded close, but the IMRC monitor indicates open.

OBDII Code P1538 Ford - Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open Bank 2 - AutoCodes.com — P1538 Ford Code - Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open Bank 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1538 Ford?

Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) actuator
Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator harness is open or shorted
Intake Manifold Runner Control actuator circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P1538 Ford?

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 P1538 Ford 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 P1538 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1538 Ford (Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open Bank 2)?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine performance, rough idling, and potentially an illuminated check engine light.

2. What could cause the Intake Manifold Runner Control to become stuck open on Bank 2?

- The intake manifold runner control may become stuck open due to a faulty actuator, carbon buildup, or a mechanical issue within the intake manifold system.

3. How serious is the P1538 Ford code related to the Intake Manifold Runner Control being stuck open on Bank 2?

- This code should be addressed promptly as it can lead to decreased engine efficiency and potentially cause further damage if left unresolved.

4. Can I still drive my vehicle with the Intake Manifold Runner Control stuck open on Bank 2?

- It is generally not recommended to drive the vehicle with this issue as it can result in poor engine performance and reduced fuel efficiency.

5. What are some DIY repair tips for addressing the P1538 code?

- DIY repair tips include checking for any visible obstructions in the intake manifold system, inspecting the actuator for proper function, and clearing any carbon buildup if possible.

6. How can a mechanic diagnose the cause of the Intake Manifold Runner Control being stuck open on Bank 2?

- A mechanic can use a scan tool to retrieve the OBDII code, inspect the intake manifold system for any physical obstructions, and perform tests on the actuator to determine its functionality.

7. Is it safe to reset the Check Engine Light after resolving the P1538 code?

- Yes, once the underlying issue causing the code has been addressed, it is safe to reset the Check Engine Light to see if the code reoccurs.

8. What are the potential long-term effects of ignoring the P1538 Ford code?

- Ignoring the P1538 code can lead to decreased engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to other engine components over time.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open on Bank 2 issue?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

10. Can regular maintenance help prevent the Intake Manifold Runner Control from getting stuck open on Bank 2?

- Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the intake system and replacing air filters as recommended, can help prevent issues like the Intake Manifold Runner Control getting stuck open.