P0038 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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.
Need more information about the P0038 2018 Ford F150 code?
Need more information on how to fix the P0038 2018 Ford F150 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P0038 2018 Ford F150 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Frequently Asked Questions about P0038 2018 Ford F150 Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 on a 2018 Ford F150?
- Common symptoms include decreased fuel efficiency, rough idling, and the illumination of the check engine light.
2. What does the HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2 code mean on a 2018 Ford F150?
- This code indicates that there is a high voltage condition in the heater control circuit of the oxygen sensor located downstream of the catalytic converter on bank 1.
3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0038 on a 2018 Ford F150?
- Possible causes 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 can I diagnose the issue causing code P0038 on my 2018 Ford F150?
- You can diagnose the issue by checking the oxygen sensor's wiring and connectors, testing the sensor's resistance, inspecting the fuse related to the sensor circuit, and scanning the ECM for any related error codes.
5. Can I continue driving my 2018 Ford F150 with the P0038 code?
- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with the P0038 code present, as it can lead to further damage and potentially affect the performance of the engine.
6. How can I repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2018 Ford F150?
- Repair options include replacing the oxygen sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, checking and replacing any blown fuses, and resetting the ECM after completing the repairs.
7. Is it possible to reset the check engine light after fixing the P0038 code on a 2018 Ford F150?
- Yes, you can reset the check engine light by using an OBDII scanner to clear the error codes stored in the ECM memory.
8. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0038 on a 2018 Ford F150?
- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue causing the P0038 code, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.
9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the P0038 code on a 2018 Ford F150?
- Depending on your experience and tools, you may be able to fix the P0038 code yourself by following repair guides or tutorials specific to your vehicle.
10. How often does the HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2 code occur in a 2018 Ford F150?
- The occurrence of this code can vary depending on factors like vehicle condition, maintenance history, and driving habits, but it is not an uncommon issue in Ford F150 models.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0038 2018 Ford F150 OBDII Code
Code P0038 2018 Ford F150 comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
