AutoCodes – Nissan – P0038 2011 Nissan Versa

P0038 2011 Nissan Versa Code - HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High

Quick Answer

Oxygen Sensors (O2S) or Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) need to reach a minimum operating temperature of 750 degrees F to produce an accurate voltage signal. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 fuse, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted. 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
P0038 2011 Nissan Versa indicates HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 fuse, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted.
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 2,993
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 P0038 2011 Nissan Versa Description

Oxygen Sensors (O2S) or Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) need to reach a minimum operating temperature of 750 degrees F to produce an accurate voltage signal. The faster the heated oxygen sensor reaches that temperature the faster the sensor will start sending an accurate signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM).
In order to achieve the require temperature, a heater element is included inside the heated oxygen sensor. The ECM controls the heated oxygen sensor heater element based on signals from the engine coolant temperature and engine load. The ECM controls the heater element circuit by allowing current flow to ground.
The ECM monitors the voltage signal received through the heater element circuit and determines the state of the circuit by comparing the voltage detected with the factory specifications.
OBDII Code P0038 2011 Nissan Versa - HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High - AutoCodes.com
P0038 2011 Nissan Versa Code - HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0038 2011 Nissan Versa?

  • Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 fuse
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0038 2011 Nissan Versa?

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 2011 Nissan Versa 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 2011 Nissan Versa code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0038 2011 Nissan Versa code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the 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 P0038 2011 Nissan Versa Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 in a 2011 Nissan Versa?

The common symptoms of code P0038 in a 2011 Nissan Versa include poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potential stalling of the engine.

2. What does the HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High mean for a 2011 Nissan Versa?

The code P0038 on a 2011 Nissan Versa indicates an issue with the oxygen sensor (HO2S12) heater control circuit registering a high voltage.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0038 in a 2011 Nissan Versa?

Possible causes of code P0038 in a 2011 Nissan Versa include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or a problem with the vehicle's engine control module.

4. How can I diagnose the HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High issue in my 2011 Nissan Versa?

Diagnosing the P0038 code in a 2011 Nissan Versa involves checking the oxygen sensor's wiring and connectors, testing the sensor's heater circuit, and scanning the vehicle's computer for related fault codes.

5. Can I continue driving my 2011 Nissan Versa with OBDII code P0038?

It is not recommended to drive your 2011 Nissan Versa with the P0038 code for an extended period, as it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, engine performance issues, and potential damage to the catalytic converter.

6. How do I repair the HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High problem in my 2011 Nissan Versa?

To repair the P0038 code in a 2011 Nissan Versa, you may need to replace the faulty oxygen sensor, repair damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogram the engine control module if necessary.

7. Is it possible to clear the P0038 code in a 2011 Nissan Versa without fixing the issue?

While you can clear the P0038 code in a 2011 Nissan Versa using an OBDII scanner, it is important to address the underlying problem to prevent further damage and ensure proper vehicle operation.

8. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P0038 in a 2011 Nissan Versa?

The cost to fix the P0038 code in a 2011 Nissan Versa can vary depending on the specific issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P0038 in a 2011 Nissan Versa?

While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address the P0038 code in a 2011 Nissan Versa by replacing the oxygen sensor or checking wiring connections, it is recommended to have the repair done by a professional if unsure.

10. How often does the HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High issue occur in 2011 Nissan Versa vehicles?

The occurrence of the P0038 code in a 2011 Nissan Versa can vary, but it is relatively common in vehicles with high mileage or those exposed to harsh driving conditions. Regular maintenance can help prevent such issues.

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