AutoCodesGeneric – P1E38

P1E38 Code - Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Inverter Supply Voltage Circuit

Quick Answer

The power inverter motor, often referred to as the drive motor generator power inverter module, contains three motor control modules and the hybrid powertrain control module. Common causes include Program Power Inverter Module, Faulty Power Inverter Module, Power Inverter Module harness is open or shorted. 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
P1E38 indicates Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Inverter Supply Voltage Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Program Power Inverter Module, Faulty Power Inverter Module, Power Inverter Module harness is open or shorted.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,080
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 23, 2020
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Code P1E38 Description

The power inverter motor, often referred to as the drive motor generator power inverter module, contains three motor control modules and the hybrid powertrain control module. Two of the motor control modules operate their respective drive motor generator based upon power inverter module commands. The third motor control module controls the auxiliary transmission fluid pump motor. The hybrid powertrain control module and the motor control modules share the power inverter module ignition voltage circuit, battery voltage circuits and chassis earth.
OBDII Code P1E38 - Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Inverter Supply Voltage Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P1E38 Code - Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Inverter Supply Voltage Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1E38?

  • Program Power Inverter Module
  • Faulty Power Inverter Module
  • Power Inverter Module harness is open or shorted
  • Power Inverter Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1E38?

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 P1E38 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 P1E38 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

  • P1E38 Acura — Brake Pedal Feel Simulator Cut Valve Stuck ON Stuck Open
  • P1E38 Buick — Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Inverter Supply Voltage Circuit
  • P1E38 Cadillac — Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Inverter Supply Voltage Circuit
  • P1E38 Chevrolet — Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Inverter Supply Voltage Circuit
  • P1E38 GMC — Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Inverter Supply Voltage Circuit
  • P1E38 Honda — Brake Pedal Feel Simulator Cut Valve Stuck ON Stuck Open
  • P1E38 Saturn — Auxiliary Transmission Fluid Pump Inverter Supply Voltage Circuit
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 P1E38 Code

What does the OBDII code P1E38 mean?

Code P1E38 indicates an issue with the auxiliary transmission fluid pump inverter supply voltage circuit, which is responsible for managing the electric pump that circulates transmission fluid in certain hybrid or electric vehicles.

What are the common symptoms of code P1E38?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, reduced vehicle performance, overheating of the transmission, or unusual noises from the transmission area.

What causes code P1E38 to appear?

Common causes include a faulty auxiliary transmission fluid pump, a malfunctioning inverter circuit, damaged wiring or connectors, or a failure in the control module.

How do I diagnose code P1E38?

Diagnosis typically involves checking the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, testing the auxiliary transmission fluid pump for proper operation, and using a multimeter to measure voltage in the inverter circuit.

Can I drive with code P1E38 active?

Driving with this code is not recommended as it can lead to transmission overheating or failure, especially in hybrid or electric vehicles that rely on the pump for fluid circulation.

How can I fix code P1E38?

Repairs may include replacing the auxiliary transmission fluid pump, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or replacing the inverter or control module if found to be faulty.

How much does it cost to repair code P1E38?

Repair costs can vary widely depending on the specific issue. Replacing an auxiliary transmission fluid pump may cost $200–$600, while inverter or module repairs can be significantly more expensive.

Can a low transmission fluid level cause code P1E38?

While low transmission fluid itself may not directly cause this code, it could contribute to overheating or other issues that exacerbate related problems.

What tools are needed to troubleshoot code P1E38?

You’ll typically need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for voltage testing, and possibly wiring diagrams for the vehicle’s transmission system.

Is code P1E38 specific to certain vehicles?

Yes, this code is generally specific to hybrid or electric vehicles equipped with an auxiliary transmission fluid pump and inverter system.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P1E38 OBDII Code

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