AutoCodes – GMC – P0038 2016 GMC Sierra

P0038 2016 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 2016 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 196

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 2016 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 2016 GMC Sierra - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2 - AutoCodes.com — P0038 2016 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 2016 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 2016 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 2016 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 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0038 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P0038 indicates a high voltage issue in the Heater Control Circuit of the Oxygen Sensor (Bank 1, Sensor 2), which helps regulate the sensor's operating temperature.

2. What are the symptoms of code P0038 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include an illuminated Check Engine Light, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential difficulty passing an emissions test.

3. What causes the P0038 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include a faulty oxygen sensor (Bank 1, Sensor 2), damaged wiring or connectors, a blown fuse, or an issue with the Engine Control Module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with the P0038 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, ignoring the issue can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and possible damage to the catalytic converter over time.

5. How do I diagnose the P0038 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the oxygen sensor wiring and connectors for damage, check the fuse for the oxygen sensor heater circuit, and test the sensor's resistance with a multimeter.

6. How do I fix the P0038 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty oxygen sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a blown fuse. In rare cases, the ECM may need reprogramming or replacement.

7. How much does it cost to repair the P0038 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The cost can vary, but replacing an oxygen sensor typically ranges from $150 to $300, including parts and labor, depending on the location and repair shop.

8. Is the P0038 code related to emissions issues?

Yes, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can affect emissions by causing incorrect air-fuel mixture readings, potentially leading to a failed emissions test.

9. What is Bank 1, Sensor 2 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine with cylinder 1, and Sensor 2 is the downstream oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter.

10. Can a bad oxygen sensor cause other codes besides P0038?

Yes, a faulty oxygen sensor can trigger other related codes, such as those indicating lean or rich fuel mixtures or additional sensor circuit malfunctions.