AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado

P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2

Quick Answer

Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) are used for fuel control and post catalyst monitoring. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical 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: P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado indicates HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical 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 288

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 25, 2024

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Description

Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) are used for fuel control and post catalyst monitoring. Each HO2S compares the oxygen content of the surrounding air with the oxygen content in the exhaust stream. The HO2S must reach an operating temperature to provide an accurate voltage signal. A heating element inside the HO2S minimizes the time required for the sensors to reach operating temperature. Voltage is provided to the heater by an ignition voltage circuit through a fuse. With the engine running, the ground is provided to the heater by the HO2S heater low control circuit through a low side driver within the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to control the HO2S heater operation to maintain a specific HO2S operating temperature range.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects a short to voltage in the heater output low side driver circuit of the heated oxygen sensor when the heater is commanded ON for greater than 5 s.

OBDII Code P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2 - AutoCodes.com — P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

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

The code means that there is a problem with the heater element circuit of the heated oxygen sensor. The control module monitors how long it takes the sensor to warm up and start sending an adequate signal. The code is set when the sensor is taking too long to warm up. Water getting inside the heated oxygen sensor connector can cause the heated oxygen sensor fuse to blow. Before replacing the sensor, check for the condition of the heated oxygen sensor fuse and connectors. If the fuse and connector are OK, replacing the O2 Sensor usually takes care of the problem.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P0038 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Common symptoms include the Check Engine Light illuminating on the dashboard, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and potential engine performance issues.

2. What does the OBDII code P0038 "HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2" mean in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- This code indicates a problem with the oxygen sensor heater control circuit in the downstream (post-catalytic converter) oxygen sensor on bank 1 of the engine.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Common causes of this code include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a blown fuse, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. How serious is OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- While the vehicle may still be driveable with this code, it is important to address it promptly to prevent potential damage to the catalytic converter and ensure optimal engine performance.

5. How can I diagnose OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- To diagnose this code, a mechanic may use a scan tool to read the specific details of the code, inspect the wiring and connectors related to the oxygen sensor, and perform tests to determine if the sensor is functioning correctly.

6. Can I drive my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code P0038?

- It is generally safe to drive the vehicle with this code, but it is recommended to have it diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to avoid potential issues with engine performance and emissions.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue. It may range from replacing a faulty oxygen sensor to addressing wiring problems or ECM issues, so it is best to consult with a mechanic for an accurate estimate.

8. Can I fix OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado myself?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address this code by replacing the oxygen sensor or checking for wiring issues, it is recommended to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the problem to ensure it is properly resolved.

9. Will resetting the check engine light fix OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Simply resetting the check engine light will not fix the underlying issue causing this code. It is important to diagnose the problem, address the root cause, and clear the code using a scan tool after the repair is completed.

10. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- The repair time for this code can vary based on the cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair needed. It could take anywhere from a quick sensor replacement to a more involved troubleshooting process, so it is best to consult with a mechanic for an estimated timeframe.