AutoCodes – Volkswagen – P0638 Volkswagen

P0638 Volkswagen Code - Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) compares the actual Throttle Possition (TP) with the target TP when the engine is running. Common causes include Drive-by-wire control system malfunction, Throttle actuator malfunction, Throttle valve malfunction. 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: P0638 Volkswagen indicates Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Drive-by-wire control system malfunction, Throttle actuator malfunction, Throttle valve malfunction.
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.

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Code Popularity 49,947

How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 01, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0638 Volkswagen Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) compares the actual Throttle Possition (TP) with the target TP when the engine is running. If the difference is more than the specification, the PCM determines that there is a throttle actuator control circuit range/performance problem.

OBDII Code P0638 Volkswagen - Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0638 Volkswagen Code - Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0638 Volkswagen?

Drive-by-wire control system malfunction
Throttle actuator malfunction
Throttle valve malfunction
PCM malfunction

How to Fix the DTC P0638 Volkswagen?

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

Dirty or clogged throttle body can triggered the P0638 code. Before replacing any parts try cleaning the throttle body and reset the engine light.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0638 Volkswagen 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.