P0038 Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln?
- 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 Lincoln?
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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0038 mean for a Lincoln vehicle?
P0038 indicates a high voltage issue in the HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) Heater Control Circuit for Bank 1, Sensor 2.
2. What are the common symptoms of P0038 in a Lincoln?
Symptoms may include the check engine light turning on, poor fuel efficiency, and possibly failing an emissions test.
3. What causes the P0038 code to appear in a Lincoln?
Common causes include a faulty oxygen sensor, wiring issues like short circuits, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
4. Which oxygen sensor does Bank 1 Sensor 2 refer to?
Bank 1 Sensor 2 is the downstream oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter on the side of the engine with cylinder 1.
5. Can a bad oxygen sensor trigger the P0038 code?
Yes, a malfunctioning heated oxygen sensor can trigger the P0038 code due to improper heater circuit operation.
6. How do I diagnose the P0038 code on my Lincoln?
Diagnose by visually inspecting the wiring and connectors, testing the oxygen sensor heater circuit with a multimeter, and checking for blown fuses.
7. Can I drive my Lincoln with the P0038 code active?
While the car may still run, driving with this code can lead to increased fuel consumption and potential damage to the catalytic converter over time.
8. How do I fix the P0038 code in a Lincoln?
Repairs may include replacing the oxygen sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a blown fuse.
9. Does the P0038 code always mean the oxygen sensor is bad?
No, it could also be caused by issues like damaged wiring, a bad fuse, or a fault in the PCM.
10. How much does it cost to repair the P0038 code in a Lincoln?
Costs vary, but replacing the oxygen sensor typically ranges from $100 to $300, depending on parts and labor rates. Wiring repairs may cost less.
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