AutoCodes – Ford – P1238 2002 Ford F150

P1238 2002 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 2002 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.

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Code Popularity 1,687

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
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Code P1238 2002 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 2002 Ford F150 - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault - AutoCodes.com — P1238 2002 Ford F150 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1238 2002 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 2002 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 2002 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 2002 Ford F150 code?

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1238 2002 Ford F150 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P1238 on a 2002 Ford F150?

- Common symptoms include engine misfires, stalling, rough idling, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P1238 indicate on a 2002 Ford F150?

- The P1238 code indicates a fault in the fuel pump secondary circuit of the vehicle.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1238 on a 2002 Ford F150?

- Possible causes include a faulty fuel pump driver module, wiring issues, a failing fuel pump, or a malfunctioning fuel pump relay.

4. How can I diagnose the fuel pump secondary circuit fault causing OBDII code P1238 on my 2002 Ford F150?

- Diagnosing this issue typically involves checking the fuel pump driver module, inspecting the wiring for damage, testing the fuel pump relay, and verifying the fuel pump's functionality.

5. Can I drive my 2002 Ford F150 with OBDII code P1238 present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with code P1238 present, as it can lead to potential fuel delivery issues and engine performance problems.

6. How can I repair the fuel pump secondary circuit fault triggering OBDII code P1238 on my 2002 Ford F150?

- Repair methods may include replacing the fuel pump driver module, repairing damaged wiring, replacing the fuel pump, or swapping out the fuel pump relay.

7. Are there any DIY tips for addressing OBDII code P1238 on a 2002 Ford F150?

- DIY enthusiasts can start by checking the fuel pump fuse, inspecting the wiring connections, and testing the fuel pump relay before considering more complex repairs.

8. Will resetting the OBDII code P1238 on my 2002 Ford F150 make the issue go away?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but the underlying issue causing code P1238 will persist until it is properly diagnosed and repaired.

9. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code P1238 on a 2002 Ford F150?

- The cost of fixing OBDII code P1238 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars for parts and labor.

10. Can a mechanic easily resolve the fuel pump secondary circuit fault triggering OBDII code P1238 on my 2002 Ford F150?

- A qualified mechanic with experience in diagnosing and repairing fuel system issues should be able to effectively resolve the problem causing code P1238 on your Ford F150.