AutoCodes – Ford – P2338 Ford

P2338 Ford Code - Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold

Quick Answer

The Knock Sensor (KS) senses engine knocking (also known as detonation or pinging) using a piezoelectric element. Common causes include Faulty knock sensor, Knock sensor circuit poor electrical connection, Knock sensor 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
P2338 Ford indicates Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty knock sensor, Knock sensor circuit poor electrical connection, Knock sensor 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.
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Code Popularity 3,427
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P2338 Ford Description

The Knock Sensor (KS) senses engine knocking (also known as detonation or pinging) using a piezoelectric element. The sensor is attached to the cylinder block, cylinder head or intake manifold. A knocking vibration from the cylinder block is sensed as vibrational pressure. This pressure is converted into a voltage signal and sent to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM uses this signal to retard the ignition timing and protect the engine from this damaging pre-ignition.
OBDII Code P2338 Ford - Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold - AutoCodes.com
P2338 Ford Code - Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2338 Ford?

  • Faulty knock sensor
  • Knock sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Knock sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P2338 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P2338 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 P2338 Ford code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2338 Ford code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P2338 Ford 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 P2338 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2338 in a Ford, indicating Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold?

- Common symptoms include engine misfires, loss of power, rough idling, and in some cases, the Check Engine light may illuminate.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P2338 indicating Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold in a Ford?

- Potential causes include a faulty knock sensor, wiring issues, a defective engine control module (ECM), or engine mechanical problems.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P2338 in my Ford related to Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold?

- You can diagnose the issue by checking the knock sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and using a scan tool to monitor engine data for irregularities.

4. What repair tips can help resolve OBDII code P2338 in a Ford for Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold?

- Repair tips include replacing a faulty knock sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, ensuring proper engine timing, and addressing any underlying engine issues causing knock.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P2338 in a Ford related to Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold cause further damage?

- Continuing to drive with this code can potentially lead to engine damage due to persistent knock issues, so it is recommended to address the problem promptly.

6. Are there any preventive measures to avoid encountering OBDII code P2338 for Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold in a Ford?

- Regular maintenance, using high-quality fuel, and promptly addressing any engine performance issues can help prevent the occurrence of this code.

7. How much can I expect to pay for repairing OBDII code P2338 in a Ford associated with Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause and required parts, but it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate estimate.

8. Can resetting the Check Engine light resolve OBDII code P2338 in a Ford linked to Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold?

- Resetting the light may temporarily clear the code, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing the code to trigger in the first place.

9. Is it safe to continue driving my Ford with OBDII code P2338 pointing to Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle extensively with this code active, as it can lead to potential engine damage if left unresolved.

10. Will OBDII code P2338 for Cylinder 3 Above Knock Threshold affect my Ford's fuel efficiency?

- Yes, this code can impact fuel efficiency due to engine performance issues caused by knock sensor malfunctions or engine misfires.

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