P0138 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - HO2S Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2
Quick Answer
The Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) are used for fuel control and catalyst monitoring. Common causes include Faulty Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1, Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 harness is open or shorted, Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates HO2S Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1, Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 harness is open or shorted, Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description
The heating elements inside each HO2S heat the sensor to bring the sensor up to operating conditions faster. This allows the system to enter Closed Loop earlier and the ECM to calculate the air-to-fuel ratio sooner.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects that the HO2S voltage is greater than 1, 050 mV.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0138 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
- Faulty Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1
- Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 harness is open or shorted
- Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 circuit poor electrical connection
- Low or high fuel system pressure
- Fuel contamination
- Faulty fuel injectors
- Exhaust gas leaks
- Engine vacuum leaks
How to Fix the DTC P0138 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
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
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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0138 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code
1. What does the P0138 code mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
The P0138 code indicates that the HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) for Bank 1 Sensor 2 is reporting a high voltage, which may suggest an issue with the oxygen sensor or the exhaust system.
2. What are the symptoms of the P0138 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Symptoms may include poor fuel economy, rough idling, excessive exhaust emissions, and the check engine light illuminating.
3. What causes the P0138 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Common causes include a faulty downstream oxygen sensor (Bank 1 Sensor 2), damaged wiring or connectors, exhaust leaks, or a malfunctioning catalytic converter.
4. How can I fix the P0138 code on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Repairs may involve replacing the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor, inspecting and repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or addressing any exhaust system issues.
5. Can I drive my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado with the P0138 code?
While the vehicle may remain operable, driving with this code can cause decreased fuel efficiency and potentially lead to damage to the catalytic converter over time.
6. How do I locate Bank 1 Sensor 2 on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Bank 1 Sensor 2 is the downstream oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter on the side of the engine with cylinder 1.
7. Will the P0138 code cause my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado to fail an emissions test?
Yes, the P0138 code can result in your vehicle failing an emissions test due to improper exhaust gas monitoring.
8. How much does it cost to fix the P0138 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Repair costs can vary but typically range from $150 to $300 for parts and labor, depending on whether the oxygen sensor needs replacement or wiring repairs are required.
9. Can a dirty air filter cause the P0138 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
A dirty air filter is unlikely to cause the P0138 code directly, but it can affect overall engine performance, which may contribute to related issues.
10. How do I clear the P0138 code on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
The code can be cleared using an OBDII scanner after repairs, but it will return if the underlying issue isn’t resolved.
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