P0038 2012 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder 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.
Code P0038 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Description
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.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0038 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
- 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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder code?
Need more information on how to fix the P0038 2012 Nissan Pathfinder code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
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Frequently Asked Questions about P0038 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Code
1. What does OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder mean?
The OBDII code P0038 for a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder refers to the HO2S12 (Heated Oxygen Sensor 1, Bank 1) Heater Control Circuit High.
2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
Common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 in a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder may include poor fuel economy, rough idling, and an illuminated check engine light.
3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
Possible causes of OBDII code P0038 in a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a blown fuse, or a problem with the engine control module.
4. How do I diagnose OBDII code P0038 on my 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
Diagnosing OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the code, inspecting the oxygen sensor and related wiring, and testing the heater circuit for continuity.
5. Can I continue driving my 2012 Nissan Pathfinder with OBDII code P0038?
It is not recommended to continue driving your 2012 Nissan Pathfinder with an unresolved OBDII code P0038, as it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and potential damage to the engine over time.
6. How can I repair OBDII code P0038 on my 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
To repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder, you may need to replace the HO2S12 sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, check and replace any blown fuses, or reprogram the engine control module.
7. Are there any tips for preventing OBDII code P0038 in my 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
Regular maintenance, such as keeping up with oil changes and ensuring all sensors are functioning properly, can help prevent issues like OBDII code P0038 in your 2012 Nissan Pathfinder.
8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
Depending on your level of expertise, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder by following repair manuals and using the necessary tools.
9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder?
The cost to repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to a thousand dollars at a repair shop.
10. Can clearing the OBDII code P0038 on my 2012 Nissan Pathfinder make it go away permanently?
Clearing the OBDII code P0038 on a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem.
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