AutoCodes – Audi – P3138 Audi

P3138 Audi Code - Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference

Quick Answer

Manufacturers can use a variable geometry intake manifold to alter airflow into the manifold under certain conditions. Common causes include Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor, Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor 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: P3138 Audi indicates Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor, Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor 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 27,056

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

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

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P3138 Audi Description

Manufacturers can use a variable geometry intake manifold to alter airflow into the manifold under certain conditions. Under low load conditions, a long thin manifold runner is ideal for flow velocity and swirl/turbulence. Under high load demands, a short think runner is ideal. The rate of intake swirl and turbulence is critical to fuel mixture formation and agitation. A position sensor can be fixed to the control circuit to monitor the valve for both electrical and mechanical faults. An actuator test can be performed to test the circuit and live data or an oscilloscope can be used to validate the position feedback.

OBDII Code P3138 Audi - Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference - AutoCodes.com — P3138 Audi Code - Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P3138 Audi?

Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor
Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Control Solenoid Valve

How to Fix the DTC P3138 Audi?

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

There is a Factory Service Bulletin for the following Audi models:
2005-2007 Audi A3
2005-2007 Audi A4
2007 Audi A4 Cabriolet
2008 Audi TT
Audi Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P3138

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P3138 Audi 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 P3138 Audi code?

Need more information on how to fix the P3138 Audi code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P3138 Audi Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P3138 in an Audi related to the intake flap for airflow control difference?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine performance, rough idling, poor fuel efficiency, and potentially a check engine light.

2. What causes the OBDII code P3138 indicating an intake flap for airflow control difference in an Audi?

- This code is typically triggered by issues with the intake manifold, faulty intake flap motor, vacuum leaks, or wiring problems.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P3138 in my Audi related to the intake flap for airflow control difference?

- Diagnosis involves checking the intake system for leaks, inspecting the intake flap motor, testing the vacuum lines, and scanning the system for fault codes.

4. Can driving with the OBDII code P3138 in an Audi be harmful to the vehicle?

- Continuing to drive with this code may lead to reduced engine performance, lower fuel efficiency, and potential long-term damage to engine components.

5. What are the repair options for resolving the OBDII code P3138 related to the intake flap for airflow control difference in an Audi?

- Repair options may include replacing the intake flap motor, repairing vacuum leaks, clearing fault codes, and ensuring proper electrical connections.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P3138 in an Audi without fixing the underlying issue with the intake flap for airflow control difference?

- While you can clear the code temporarily, it is essential to address the root cause to prevent the issue from recurring and potentially causing further damage.

7. How long does it typically take to repair the OBDII code P3138 related to the intake flap for airflow control difference in an Audi?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may take a few hours to a full day for diagnosis and repair.

8. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid encountering the OBDII code P3138 in an Audi?

- Regularly inspecting the intake system, ensuring proper maintenance of the intake flap motor, and addressing any warning signs promptly can help prevent this issue.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P3138 related to the intake flap for airflow control difference in an Audi?

- Depending on the mechanical skills and tools available, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address this issue, but professional diagnosis and repair are recommended for accurate and lasting solutions.

10. Is the OBDII code P3138 related to the intake flap for airflow control difference a common issue in Audi vehicles?

- While it may not be among the most common OBDII codes, issues with the intake flap for airflow control can occur in Audi vehicles, particularly as they age or if maintenance is neglected.