AutoCodes – Saturn – P0038 Saturn

P0038 Saturn Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2

Quick Answer

Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) are used for fuel control and post catalyst monitoring. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection. 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 Saturn indicates HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection.
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.

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Code Popularity 7,217

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 23, 2024

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0038 Saturn Description

Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) are used for fuel control and post catalyst monitoring. Each HO2S compares the oxygen content of the surrounding air with the oxygen content in the exhaust stream. The HO2S must reach an operating temperature to provide an accurate voltage signal. A heating element inside the HO2S minimizes the time required for the sensors to reach operating temperature. Voltage is provided to the heater by an ignition voltage circuit through a fuse. With the engine running, the ground is provided to the heater by the HO2S heater low control circuit through a low side driver within the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to control the HO2S heater operation to maintain a specific HO2S operating temperature range.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects a short to voltage in the heater output low side driver circuit of the heated oxygen sensor when the heater is commanded ON for greater than 5 s.

OBDII Code P0038 Saturn - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2 - AutoCodes.com — P0038 Saturn Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0038 Saturn?

Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 2
Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open shorted to ground
Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit fuse
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0038 Saturn?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

The code means that there is a problem with the heater element circuit of the heated oxygen sensor. The control module monitors how long it takes the sensor to warm up and start sending an adequate signal. The code is set when the sensor is taking too long to warm up. Water getting inside the heated oxygen sensor connector can cause the heated oxygen sensor fuse to blow. Before replacing the sensor, check for the condition of the heated oxygen sensor fuse and connectors. If the fuse and connector are OK, replacing the O2 Sensor usually takes care of the problem.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0038 Saturn 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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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0038 Saturn Code

1. What does OBDII code P0038 for a Saturn indicate?

- OBDII code P0038 on a Saturn refers to the HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) Heater Control Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn?

- Common symptoms of OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn may include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine misfires, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn?

- The possible causes of OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn can include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code P0038 in my Saturn?

- Diagnosing OBDII code P0038 in your Saturn typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, testing the oxygen sensor and related wiring, and inspecting the ECM for any faults.

5. Can I continue driving my Saturn with OBDII code P0038 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving your Saturn with OBDII code P0038 present, as it can lead to potential engine performance issues and may cause further damage if left unaddressed.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0038 in my Saturn?

- Repairing OBDII code P0038 in your Saturn may involve replacing the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn without fixing the issue?

- While you can clear the OBDII code P0038 from the system without fixing the underlying issue, the Check Engine Light is likely to reappear if the problem is not addressed.

8. Are there any maintenance tips to prevent OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn?

- To prevent OBDII code P0038 in your Saturn, it is advisable to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, including regular inspection of the oxygen sensors and related components.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn?

- Depending on your mechanical skills and experience, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn by following repair guides and utilizing the necessary tools and equipment.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn?

- The time required to repair OBDII code P0038 in a Saturn can vary based on the specific cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair process, but it may take a few hours to complete.