AutoCodes – GMC – P0038 2015 GMC Sierra

P0038 2015 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra 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 230

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 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2 - AutoCodes.com — P0038 2015 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra?

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 GMC Sierra?

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 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The common symptoms of code P0038 include poor fuel efficiency, engine misfires, rough idling, and the illumination of the check engine light.

2. What does the code P0038 "HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2" mean for a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The code P0038 indicates a problem with the heater control circuit in the oxygen sensor (O2 sensor) located in Bank 1 Sensor 2 of the vehicle's exhaust system.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common causes of code P0038 include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a blown fuse, or issues with the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0038 in my 2015 GMC Sierra?

To diagnose code P0038, you can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the error code and check the sensor's wiring and connectors for any signs of damage. Testing the sensor's heater circuit resistance can also help pinpoint the issue.

5. Can I continue driving my 2015 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P0038?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with code P0038 unresolved, as it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and potential damage to the catalytic converter over time. It's best to address the issue promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0038 in my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repairing code P0038 may involve replacing the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, checking and replacing blown fuses if necessary, and resetting the ECM after repairs are completed.

7. Is it necessary to reset the check engine light after fixing OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Yes, it is important to reset the check engine light after addressing code P0038. This can be done using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the vehicle's battery for a few minutes to clear the error code.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The cost of repairing code P0038 can vary depending on the cause of the issue and labor rates in your area. Replacing the oxygen sensor or repairing wiring may range from $150 to $400, including parts and labor.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P0038 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to tackle the repair for code P0038, it is recommended to have a good understanding of automotive systems and access to the necessary tools and equipment before attempting the repair to ensure it is done correctly.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code P0038 from occurring in my 2015 GMC Sierra in the future?

To prevent code P0038, it's important to perform regular vehicle maintenance, including checking the oxygen sensor's condition during scheduled service intervals and addressing any engine-related issues promptly to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.