P0138 2013 Toyota RAV4 Code - Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2
Quick Answer
In order to obtain a high purification rate of the Carbon Monoxide (CO), Hydrocarbon (HC), and Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) components in the exhaust gas, a Three-Way Catalytic Converter (TWC) is used. Common causes include Faulty Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2, Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, 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
- P0138 2013 Toyota RAV4 indicates Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2, Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, 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.
Code P0138 2013 Toyota RAV4 Description
The heated oxygen sensor is located behind the TWC and detects the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas. Since the sensor is integrated with the heater that heats the sensing portion, it is possible to detect the oxygen concentration even when the intake air volume is low (the exhaust gas temperature is low).
When the air-fuel ratio becomes lean, the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas is high. The heated oxygen sensor informs the ECM that the post-TWC air-fuel ratio is lean (low voltage, i.e. less than 0.45 V).
Conversely, when the air-fuel ratio is richer than the stoichiometric air-fuel level, the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas is low. The heated oxygen sensor informs the ECM that the post-TWC air-fuel ratio is rich (high voltage, i.e. more than 0.45 V). The heated oxygen sensor has the property of changing its output voltage drastically when the air-fuel ratio is close to the stoichiometric level.
The ECM uses the supplementary information from the heated oxygen sensor to determine whether the air-fuel ratio after the TWC is rich or lean and adjusts the fuel injection duration accordingly. Thus, if the heated oxygen sensor is working improperly due to internal malfunctions, the ECM is unable to compensate for deviations in the primary air-fuel ratio control.
The ECM continuously monitors the heated oxygen sensor output voltage while the engine is running. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0138 is stored if the heated oxygen sensor voltage output is 1.2 V or higher for 10 seconds or more.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0138 2013 Toyota RAV4?
- Faulty Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2
- Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
- Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
- Gas leak from exhaust system
How to Fix the DTC P0138 2013 Toyota RAV4?
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.
Code Tech Notes
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0138 2013 Toyota RAV4 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 P0138 2013 Toyota RAV4 Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0138 for a 2013 Toyota RAV4 indicate?
The code P0138 in a 2013 Toyota RAV4 specifically refers to an Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage in Bank 1 Sensor 2.
2. What are some common symptoms of a P0138 error code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?
Common symptoms of a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4 may include poor fuel economy, engine misfires, rough idling, or a noticeable decrease in engine performance.
3. What are the potential causes of a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?
Possible causes of a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4 include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the oxygen sensor circuit, or an issue with the vehicle's engine control module (ECM).
4. How can I diagnose a P0138 code in my 2013 Toyota RAV4?
Diagnosing a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4 typically involves using an OBDII scanner to read the code, inspecting the oxygen sensor and its wiring for damage, and testing the sensor's voltage output to determine if it is functioning correctly.
5. What are some repair tips for fixing a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?
Repairing a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4 may involve replacing the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, or resetting the ECM to clear the code after addressing the underlying issue.
6. Can I continue driving my 2013 Toyota RAV4 with a P0138 code?
It is not recommended to drive your 2013 Toyota RAV4 with a P0138 code for an extended period, as it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, engine performance issues, and potential damage to other components over time.
7. How important is it to address a P0138 code promptly in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?
Addressing a P0138 code promptly in a 2013 Toyota RAV4 is crucial to ensure optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle reliability. Ignoring the code may lead to more severe issues down the line.
8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?
While some DIY enthusiasts may have the skills to address a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4 by replacing the oxygen sensor or checking for wiring issues, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.
9. How much does it typically cost to repair a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?
The cost of repairing a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4 can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor, excluding any additional diagnostic fees.
10. Are there any preventive measures to avoid a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4?
To prevent a P0138 code in a 2013 Toyota RAV4, regular maintenance checks, such as inspecting the oxygen sensors during tune-ups, ensuring proper engine performance, and promptly addressing any related warning lights, can help maintain the vehicle's health.
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