AutoCodes – Ford – P1238 2000 Ford F150

P1238 2000 Ford F150 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault

Quick Answer

This DTC indicates the Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM2) detected a fuel pump secondary circuit concern. Common causes include Faulty Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM), Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) harness is open or shorted, Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) 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: P1238 2000 Ford F150 indicates Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM), Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) harness is open or shorted, Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 2,241

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 20, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P1238 2000 Ford F150 Description

This DTC indicates the Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM2) detected a fuel pump secondary circuit concern. The FPDM2 sends a message to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) through the fuel pump monitor (FPM2) circuit, indicating this concern was detected. The PCM sets the DTC when the message is received.

OBDII Code P1238 2000 Ford F150 - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault - AutoCodes.com — P1238 2000 Ford F150 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1238 2000 Ford F150?

Faulty Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM)
Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) harness is open or shorted
Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty fuel pump

How to Fix the DTC P1238 2000 Ford F150?

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

Note: For LS6/LS8 and Thunderbird, the FPDM functions are incorporated in the Rear Electronics Module (REM). Also, the REM does not use an FPM circuit. Diagnostic information is sent on the communication link.
P1238 indicates that the FPDM has detected a fuel pump secondary circuit fault. The FPDM will send a message to the PCM through the FPM circuit, indicating that this failure has been detected. The PCM will set the DTC when the message is received.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1238 2000 Ford F150 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 P1238 2000 Ford F150 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1238 2000 Ford F150 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1238 2000 Ford F150 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P1238 2000 Ford F150 Code

1. What does the P1238 code mean on a 2000 Ford F150?

The P1238 code indicates a "Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault," meaning thereâ€™s an issue with the electrical circuit controlling the fuel pump's operation.

2. What are the symptoms of the P1238 code?

Common symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, stalling, reduced engine performance, or the engine failing to start altogether.

3. What causes the P1238 code on a Ford F150?

Potential causes include a faulty fuel pump relay, damaged wiring or connectors in the fuel pump circuit, a failing fuel pump, or a malfunctioning PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

4. Can I drive with the P1238 code on my Ford F150?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it can lead to stalling or loss of power, which may leave you stranded or cause unsafe driving conditions.

5. How do I diagnose the P1238 code on a 2000 Ford F150?

Start by inspecting the fuel pump relay, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check for proper voltage in the circuit and test the resistance of the fuel pump.

6. Does the P1238 code always mean the fuel pump is bad?

No, the code can also be triggered by issues with the relay, wiring, connectors, or the PCM. Thorough diagnosis is necessary to pinpoint the exact cause.

7. How do I fix the P1238 code on my Ford F150?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty fuel pump relay, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or replacing the fuel pump if itâ€™s defective.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P1238 code?

Repair costs vary depending on the cause. Replacing a fuel pump relay typically costs $20-$50, while a new fuel pump can range from $200-$500 plus labor.

9. Can a bad ground connection cause the P1238 code?

Yes, a poor ground connection can disrupt the fuel pump circuit and trigger the P1238 code. Inspect and clean the ground points as part of the diagnostic process.

10. Do I need a professional mechanic to fix the P1238 code?

While some issues like replacing a relay or repairing wiring can be done by experienced DIYers, complex diagnostics or fuel pump replacement may require a professional mechanic.