P0038 Mitsubishi Code - Cylinder 1-4 Heated Oxygen Sensor Rear 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 Mitsubishi indicates Cylinder 1-4 Heated Oxygen Sensor Rear 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 Mitsubishi 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 Mitsubishi?
- 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 Mitsubishi?
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 Mitsubishi 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 Mitsubishi Code
What does the OBDII code P0038 mean in a Mitsubishi?
The code P0038 indicates an issue with the Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) for cylinder banks 1-4, specifically a high voltage in the rear sensor's heater control circuit.
What are the symptoms of code P0038 in a Mitsubishi?
Common symptoms include an illuminated check engine light, reduced fuel efficiency, potential rough idling, and failed emissions tests.
What causes the P0038 code in a Mitsubishi?
Typical 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).
Can I drive my Mitsubishi with the P0038 code?
While the vehicle may still be drivable, ignoring the issue can lead to reduced fuel economy and potentially damage the catalytic converter over time.
How do I diagnose the P0038 code in a Mitsubishi?
Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, checking the fuse for the oxygen sensor heater circuit, and testing the resistance of the oxygen sensor heater element.
How do I fix the P0038 code in a Mitsubishi?
Repairs may include replacing the faulty oxygen sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, replacing a blown fuse, or, in rare cases, reprogramming or replacing the ECM.
How much does it cost to repair the P0038 code in a Mitsubishi?
Replacing an oxygen sensor typically costs between $100 and $300, depending on labor rates and sensor type, while wiring repairs or ECM replacement could vary.
Can a faulty oxygen sensor heater harm my Mitsubishi's engine?
While it won't directly harm the engine, a malfunctioning heater can affect fuel mixture control, leading to higher emissions and potential long-term damage to the catalytic converter.
How can I prevent the P0038 code from occurring again?
Regular maintenance, inspecting wiring for wear, and using high-quality replacement parts can help prevent recurring issues with the oxygen sensor heater circuit.
Will clearing the P0038 code resolve the issue permanently?
Clearing the code will turn off the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be fixed to prevent the code from returning.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0038 Mitsubishi OBDII Code
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