AutoCodes – Ford – P1238 Ford

P1238 Ford 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 Ford 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 10,440

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1238 Ford?

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 Ford?

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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1238 Ford 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 Ford code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

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

Information for Specific Ford Models

P1238 1997 Ford F150 — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 1998 Ford F150 — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 1999 Ford F150 — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2000 Ford F150 — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2001 Ford F150 — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2002 Ford F150 — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2003 Ford F150 — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2006 Ford Fusion — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2007 Ford Fusion — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2008 Ford Fusion — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2009 Ford Fusion — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2010 Ford Fusion — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2011 Ford Fusion — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2012 Ford Fusion — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault

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 Ford Code

What does the OBDII code P1238 mean for a Ford vehicle?

P1238 indicates a fuel pump secondary circuit fault, meaning there is a problem with the secondary circuit of the fuel pump, which can affect fuel delivery.

What are common symptoms of the P1238 code?

Common symptoms include a check engine light, difficulty starting the vehicle, engine stalling, or poor engine performance due to inadequate fuel supply.

What could cause the P1238 code to trigger?

Causes can include a faulty fuel pump, damaged wiring or connectors in the fuel pump circuit, a bad fuel pump relay, or issues with the powertrain control module (PCM).

How can I diagnose the P1238 code?

Start by using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code. Inspect the fuel pump relay, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion. Test the fuel pump for proper operation.

Is it safe to drive a vehicle with the P1238 code?

Driving with this code may not be safe, as it can lead to fuel delivery issues, resulting in engine stalling or failure to start. It's best to address the problem promptly.

What repairs are typically needed for the P1238 code?

Repairs may include replacing the fuel pump, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a faulty fuel pump relay.

Can the P1238 code be cleared, and will it come back?

Yes, the code can be cleared using an OBDII scanner. However, if the underlying issue isn't resolved, the code is likely to return.

Will a bad fuel pump always trigger the P1238 code?

Not necessarily. A bad fuel pump may trigger other codes, but if the issue affects the secondary circuit of the fuel pump, it can trigger the P1238 code.

What is the cost of repairing the P1238 code?

Repair costs vary widely based on the specific issue, but fixing wiring issues may be less expensive than replacing a fuel pump, which can range from $300 to $1,000 including parts and labor.