AutoCodesAcura – P2238 Acura

P2238 Acura Code - Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Air/Fuel ratio (A/F) sensor (sensor 1) is installed in the exhaust system and detects oxygen content in the exhaust gas. Common causes include Faulty Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1, Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 harness is open or shorted, Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 electrical circuit poor connection. 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
P2238 Acura indicates Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1, Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 harness is open or shorted, Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 electrical circuit poor connection.
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 4,370
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 P2238 Acura Description

The Air/Fuel ratio (A/F) sensor (sensor 1) is installed in the exhaust system and detects oxygen content in the exhaust gas. The A/F sensor transmits output voltage to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). A heater for the sensor element is embedded in the A/F sensor (sensor 1). It heats the sensor to stabilize and speed the detection of oxygen content. The increase in current through the heater levels off as the voltage applied to the electrode reaches a certain range because the amount of oxygen that goes through the diffusion layer is limited. The current is proportional to oxygen content in the exhaust gas, so the air/fuel ratio is detected by the measurement of the current. The PCM compares a set target air/fuel ratio with the detected air/fuel ratio and controls the fuel injection duration. If the A/F sensor (sensor 1) voltage is low, the air/fuel ratio is lean, and the PCM uses A/F feedback control to issue a rich command. If the A/F sensor (sensor 1) voltage is high, the air/fuel ratio is rich, and the PCM uses A/F feedback control to issue a lean command. If the element is not activated or the PCM terminal voltage is a set value or less for a set time when power is drawn to the A/F sensor (sensor 1) heater, a malfunction is detected and a DTC is stored.
OBDII Code P2238 Acura - Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P2238 Acura Code - Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2238 Acura?

  • Faulty Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1
  • Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 harness is open or shorted
  • Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Bank 1 electrical circuit poor connection
  • Vacuum leak
  • Low fuel pressure

How to Fix the DTC P2238 Acura?

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 P2238 Acura 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 P2238 Acura 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 P2238 Acura Code

What does the OBDII code P2238 mean for an Acura?

The P2238 code indicates a problem with the Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 (Bank 1) circuit, specifically low voltage, which impacts fuel mixture regulation.

What are the common symptoms of code P2238 in an Acura?

Symptoms may include poor fuel economy, rough idling, reduced engine performance, and an illuminated check engine light.

What causes the P2238 code to appear on an Acura?

Common causes include a faulty air/fuel ratio sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

Can a dirty air filter trigger the P2238 code?

A dirty air filter generally wouldn’t trigger this code, but it can affect air intake, potentially exacerbating fuel mixture issues.

How is the P2238 code diagnosed in an Acura?

A mechanic will use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspect the air/fuel ratio sensor and wiring, and use a multimeter to check voltage and resistance.

Can I drive my Acura with the P2238 code active?

It’s not recommended to drive for extended periods with this code, as it can lead to poor performance, higher emissions, and potential damage to the catalytic converter.

How is the P2238 code typically repaired?

Repairs may involve replacing the air/fuel ratio sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

How much does it cost to fix the P2238 code on an Acura?

The cost can vary but typically ranges from $200 to $400 for parts and labor to replace the air/fuel ratio sensor.

Can a bad oxygen sensor cause the P2238 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning air/fuel ratio sensor (a type of oxygen sensor) is the most common cause of this code.

How can I prevent the P2238 code from recurring?

Regular maintenance, keeping the air/fuel ratio sensors clean, and inspecting wiring for damage can help prevent this code from reappearing.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P2238 Acura OBDII Code

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