P0038 2017 Ford F150 Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2
Quick Answer
The HO2S detects the presence of oxygen in the exhaust and produces a variable voltage according to the amount of oxygen detected. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 (HO2S12), Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- P0038 2017 Ford F150 indicates HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 (HO2S12), Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Code P0038 2017 Ford F150 Description
When the oxygen sensor is cold, disconnected, or on initial start-up, the voltage may read between 1.5 to 1.7 volts. The oxygen sensor voltage will decrease to the normal operating range of 0.0 to 1.1 volts during warm, stabilized engine running conditions.
The HO2S heater is embedded with a sensing element. The heating element heats the sensor to a temperature of 800°C (1,472°F). At approximately 300°C (572°F) the engine enters closed loop operation. The heater allows the engine to enter closed loop operation sooner.
The PCM controls the Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1, Sensor 2 (HO2S12) heater ON and OFF duty cycle to maintain a calibrated temperature. This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is set when the sensor does not warm up to the required temperature in a calibrated amount of time. This DTC is also set when the PCM is not able to maintain the required temperature after the sensor is warmed.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0038 2017 Ford F150?
- Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 (HO2S12)
- Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground
- Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P0038 2017 Ford F150?
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 2017 Ford F150 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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Frequently Asked Questions about P0038 2017 Ford F150 Code
What does the OBDII code P0038 mean on a 2017 Ford F150?
P0038 indicates a problem with the heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) heater control circuit on Bank 1 Sensor 2. The voltage in the circuit is higher than expected.
What are the symptoms of code P0038 on a 2017 Ford F150?
Common symptoms include an illuminated check engine light, potential decrease in fuel efficiency, and possible difficulty passing emissions tests.
What does "Bank 1 Sensor 2" refer to in code P0038?
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.
What causes the P0038 code on a 2017 Ford F150?
Possible causes include a failed oxygen sensor heater, damaged wiring or connectors, a blown fuse, or a fault in the engine control module (ECM).
Can I drive my 2017 Ford F150 with a P0038 code?
While the vehicle may still be drivable, it's not recommended to ignore the code, as it can affect fuel efficiency and emissions performance.
How can I diagnose the P0038 code on my Ford F150?
Check the oxygen sensor wiring and connectors for damage, test the sensor's resistance with a multimeter, and inspect the fuse for the heater circuit.
Does P0038 mean the oxygen sensor needs to be replaced?
Not necessarily. The issue could be with the wiring, connectors, or fuse. Proper diagnosis is needed to determine if the sensor is faulty.
How do I fix the P0038 code on a 2017 Ford F150?
Repairs may include replacing the oxygen sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a blown fuse in the heater circuit.
What tools are needed to fix a P0038 code?
You’ll typically need a multimeter, OBDII scanner, and basic hand tools to diagnose and repair the issue.
How much does it cost to fix the P0038 code on a Ford F150?
Costs can vary, but replacing an oxygen sensor typically ranges from $150 to $300, including parts and labor. Wiring repairs or fuse replacements may cost less.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0038 2017 Ford F150 OBDII Code
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