P0038 Infiniti Code - HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High
Quick Answer
Oxygen Sensors (O2S) or Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) need to reach a minimum operating temperature of 750 degrees F to produce an accurate voltage signal. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 fuse, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted. 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 Infiniti indicates HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 fuse, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted.
- 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.
Code P0038 Infiniti Description
In order to achieve the require temperature, a heater element is included inside the heated oxygen sensor. The ECM controls the heated oxygen sensor heater element based on signals from the engine coolant temperature and engine load. The ECM controls the heater element circuit by allowing current flow to ground.
The ECM monitors the voltage signal received through the heater element circuit and determines the state of the circuit by comparing the voltage detected with the factory specifications.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0038 Infiniti?
- Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2
- Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 fuse
- Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
- Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
How to Fix the DTC P0038 Infiniti?
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 Infiniti 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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Information for Specific Infiniti Models
- P0038 2003 Infiniti G35 — HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High
- P0038 2004 Infiniti G35 — HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High
- P0038 2005 Infiniti G35 — HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High
- P0038 2006 Infiniti G35 — HO2S12 Heater Control Circuit High
Frequently Asked Questions about P0038 Infiniti Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0038 for an Infiniti mean?
The code P0038 on an Infiniti indicates a problem with the HO2S12 (Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2) heater control circuit being detected as high.
2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 in an Infiniti?
Common symptoms of code P0038 in an Infiniti may include poor fuel economy, rough idling, stalling, or even a check engine light illuminating on the dashboard.
3. What are the potential causes of OBDII code P0038 in an Infiniti?
Possible causes of code P0038 in an Infiniti include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the heater circuit, a blown fuse, or issues with the engine control module.
4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0038 in my Infiniti?
To diagnose code P0038 in an Infiniti, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code, visually inspect the sensor and its connections, check the heater circuit for continuity, and test the sensor's resistance.
5. Can I drive my Infiniti with the OBDII code P0038?
It is not recommended to drive your Infiniti with the OBDII code P0038 as it can lead to poor engine performance and potentially cause damage to other components.
6. How do I repair OBDII code P0038 on my Infiniti?
Repairing code P0038 on an Infiniti may involve replacing the HO2S12 sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, checking and replacing any blown fuses, or reprogramming the engine control module.
7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P0038 without fixing the issue on an Infiniti?
While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, it is not recommended to reset the code without addressing the underlying issue, as it may lead to recurring problems.
8. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P0038 in an Infiniti?
The cost of fixing code P0038 on an Infiniti can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.
9. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P0038 in an Infiniti?
If you have the necessary tools and experience working on vehicles, you may be able to repair code P0038 on your Infiniti yourself by following detailed repair guides or consulting with a mechanic for guidance.
10. How often does OBDII code P0038 occur in Infiniti vehicles?
Code P0038 related to the HO2S12 heater control circuit high can occur in Infiniti vehicles, especially in older models or those with high mileage, due to sensor wear and tear or electrical issues.
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