AutoCodes – Generic – P3138

P3138 Code - Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference

Quick Answer

Manufacturers can use a variable geometry intake manifold to alter airflow into the manifold under certain conditions. Common causes include Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor, Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor 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: P3138 indicates Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor, Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor 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 7,205

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 03, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P3138 Description

Manufacturers can use a variable geometry intake manifold to alter airflow into the manifold under certain conditions. Under low load conditions, a long thin manifold runner is ideal for flow velocity and swirl/turbulence. Under high load demands, a short think runner is ideal. The rate of intake swirl and turbulence is critical to fuel mixture formation and agitation. A position sensor can be fixed to the control circuit to monitor the valve for both electrical and mechanical faults. An actuator test can be performed to test the circuit and live data or an oscilloscope can be used to validate the position feedback.

OBDII Code P3138 - Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference - AutoCodes.com — P3138 Code - Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P3138?

Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor
Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
Intake Manifold Runner Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Intake Manifold Runner Control Solenoid Valve

How to Fix the DTC P3138?

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 P3138 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 P3138 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P3138 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P3138 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P3138 Audi — Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference
P3138 Volkswagen — Intake Flap For Airflow Control Control Difference

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 P3138 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P3138?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine performance, rough idling, and potential stalling.

2. What does OBDII code P3138 indicate?

- OBDII code P3138 indicates a difference in control for the intake flap used to control airflow in the engine.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P3138?

- Possible causes include a faulty intake flap actuator, wiring issues, vacuum leaks, or a malfunctioning intake flap itself.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P3138?

- Diagnosing the cause may involve checking the intake flap actuator, inspecting the wiring for damage, testing for vacuum leaks, and ensuring the intake flap moves freely.

5. Can OBDII code P3138 be safely ignored?

- Ignoring OBDII code P3138 can lead to decreased engine performance and potential long-term damage, so it is best to address the issue promptly.

6. How can OBDII code P3138 be repaired?

- Repairing OBDII code P3138 may involve replacing the intake flap actuator, repairing damaged wiring, fixing vacuum leaks, or replacing the intake flap if necessary.

7. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code P3138 present?

- While it may be possible to drive with OBDII code P3138 present, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to avoid potential engine damage or performance issues.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P3138?

- Depending on the cause, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to repair OBDII code P3138 by replacing the intake flap actuator or fixing wiring issues. However, professional diagnosis is recommended for accurate repairs.

9. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code P3138?

- The cost to fix OBDII code P3138 can vary depending on the cause of the issue and whether professional labor is required. Costs may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code P3138 from recurring?

- Regular maintenance, such as checking for vacuum leaks, inspecting wiring, and ensuring the intake flap actuator is functioning properly, can help prevent OBDII code P3138 from recurring.