P1138 Nissan Code - Swirl Control Valve Control System Performance
Quick Answer
While idling and during low engine coolant temperature, the swirl control valve closes, Thus the velocity of the air in the intake passage increases, promoting the vaporization of the fuel and producing a swirl in the combustion chamber. Common causes include Faulty Swirl Control Valve Control Position Sensor, Swirl Control Valve Control Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Swirl Control Valve Control Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. 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
- P1138 Nissan indicates Swirl Control Valve Control System Performance.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Swirl Control Valve Control Position Sensor, Swirl Control Valve Control Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Swirl Control Valve Control Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
- 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.
Code P1138 Nissan Description
Because of this operation, this system tends to increase the burning speed of the gas mixture, improve fuel consumption, and increase the stability in running conditions.
Also, except when idling and during low engine coolant temperature, this system opens the swirl control valve.
In this condition, this system tends to increase power by improving intake efficiency via reduction of intake flow resistance, intake flow.
The swirl control valve is operated by the Engine Control Module (ECM).
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1138 Nissan?
- Faulty Swirl Control Valve Control Position Sensor
- Swirl Control Valve Control Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Swirl Control Valve Control Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Swirl Control Valve
How to Fix the DTC P1138 Nissan?
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 P1138 Nissan 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.
Need more information about the P1138 Nissan code?
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Need Help with the Code?
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Information for Specific Nissan Models
- P1138 2004 Nissan Sentra — Swirl Control Valve Control System Performance
Frequently Asked Questions about P1138 Nissan Code
1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1138 in a Nissan related to the Swirl Control Valve Control System?
- Common symptoms include rough idling, reduced engine power, decreased fuel efficiency, and possible stalling of the vehicle.
2. What are the typical causes of OBDII code P1138 in a Nissan, indicating an issue with the Swirl Control Valve Control System?
- The code P1138 in Nissan vehicles is often triggered by a faulty swirl control valve, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the intake manifold.
3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P1138 in my Nissan myself?
- You can start by visually inspecting the swirl control valve and its connections for any signs of damage or corrosion. You can also use an OBDII scanner to read the trouble codes and perform further diagnostics.
4. Can a dirty or clogged intake manifold cause the OBDII code P1138 in a Nissan?
- Yes, a dirty or clogged intake manifold can disrupt the proper functioning of the swirl control valve system, leading to the triggering of code P1138.
5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code P1138 related to the Swirl Control Valve Control System in a Nissan?
- Repair tips include cleaning or replacing the swirl control valve, checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and ensuring the intake manifold is clean and free from obstructions.
6. Is it safe to continue driving my Nissan with the OBDII code P1138 present?
- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with code P1138 as it can lead to further engine damage and potential safety hazards. It's best to address the issue promptly.
7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1138 in a Nissan at a professional mechanic or dealership?
- The cost of repairing code P1138 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it can range from a couple of hundred dollars to over a thousand, including parts and labor.
8. Can resetting the OBDII system clear the P1138 code in a Nissan temporarily?
- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue with the swirl control valve system is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.
9. Are there any preventative maintenance steps I can take to avoid encountering OBDII code P1138 in my Nissan?
- Regularly inspecting and cleaning the swirl control valve, intake manifold, and related components can help prevent issues that lead to code P1138 in your Nissan.
10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P1138 related to the Swirl Control Valve Control System in a Nissan?
- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the availability of parts. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to address and fix the problem.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P1138 Nissan OBDII Code
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I replaced the SWIRL CONTROL VALVE and I still get 1138 what is the next step?
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What model and year is your Nissan? the P1138 code is not for the valve, is for the system performance. Before you replacing any other parts check the hose that connects to the swirl control sensor, sometimes the hose get clogged.
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Before you replaced the valve you should try to diagnose the problem first.
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I have a 2005 Nissan Sentra and I get that code P1138 and P1132, I haven't yet change the censors yet. How ever I did have that Valve done, and since I got it back I get this weird chugging back and forth when I try to accelerate, I scan the system and it showed those two codes.
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No, with a Swirl Control System problem. What model and year is your Nissan?
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Can I still drive my car if the p1138 code comes out I have a nissan sentra 2004
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Yes, you should be able to drive your car without any problems. Have you notice any driveability problems?
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I have a 2004 Nissan Sentra with a p1138 code. There are no driveability issues as of yet but code has only been on for a week. After all my research it seems that the Swirl Control Valve cannot be bought separate from the whole lower intake manifold. To top it off that may not even be the problem, my research shows that it could be a short in the wiring harness or a problem with the ECM, Engine Control Module. My Question is Can I Ever Be Sure it is the wiring, the Swirl Control Valve, the Swirl Control Position Sensor, or the ECM? Any and all help would be much appreciated!
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What is the engine size 1.8L or 2.5L? there is a Factory Service Bulletin for the 1.8L engine that recommend reprogramming the ECM.
If you do have a Sentra with 1.8L engine, then I recommend reprogramming the the ECM first. -
I do have the 1.8l engine. Can any mechanic reprogram the ECM? Do you know how much that usually costs?
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Unfortunately, not just any mechanic. Some mechanics do have a high tech scanner that can reprogram ECM's, otherwise you have to have the dealer reprogram the ECM. I recommend the dealer. The dealer have the latest ECM updates available.
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