P0438 - OBD Trouble Code

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This trouble code is generic, which would mean that it can apply to all the vehicles which are equipped with the OBD-II or the vehicles which are made since 1996 up to the present. The specifications on the definition, the troubleshooting steps as well as repairs can always vary from one vehicle make to another. This can happen because of a lot of reasons and the mechanic should diagnose the specific cause for this code.

The trouble code P0438 can be defined Catalyst Temperature Sensor High (Bank 2). If the powertrain control module has stored the P0438 trouble code, then it would mean that the catalyst efficiency is below the proper operational threshold for the engine bank 2.

What causes this problem with the Catalyst Temperature Sensor High (Bank 2)?

• The flex hose might be leaky or kinked
• Defective spark plug timing
• The mass air flow sensor can be poor
• Quirks in the fuel regulator
• Some issues in the fuel injectors
• The fuel usage might be improper
• There can be an issue of fuel entering in the exhaust system
• Flaws in the coolant temperature sensor

1. Camshaft Sensor - Defective car timing belt can be a major reason why P0438 code depicts. So, make sure to replace it online so that you don’t have to face any further issues.
2. Air Fuel Ratio Sensor - Everything is okay with the timing chain and still OBD code P0438 triggering? Then there must be some defects in crankshaft sensors. Replace them as soon as possible.
3. Powertrain Control Module - P0438 code flashing? Get your Powertrain Control Module inspected from a mechanic.
4. Engine Control Module - If everything is alright with PCM, then there is surely some defect in boost pressure sensor. Get it replaced before the situation gets worse.
5. Oxygen Sensor - P0438 code can display due to some vacuum leaks. So, it is very important to replace the auto leaks with us at equitable prices.

You might be thinking that how would you diagnose these problems? We at Parts Avatar Canada would help you diagnose the major symptoms easily.

Common Symptoms

• Overall increase in the emissions
• Issue of bad engine performance
• Diminishing overall fuel economy
• The check engine light might start flashing up

The repairs which you will have to do to correct this fault code are simply straightforward; you can surely pinpoint the necessary repairs on the basis of your diagnosis. Have a look at some common fixes:

• If there are some defects in the oxygen sensor, then it should be replaced
• Restore the mass air flow sensor
• Make sure to repair or replace the fuel regulator
• You can always replace the defective fuel injectors
• Replace the quirky catalytic converter.

There is no need to get strained if your OBD Code is still flashing up as we are here at your service. Have a look at our superior variety of shift solenoid, abs module, transmission sensor, ntk oxygen sensor and many more. Now all your problems would vanish within no time.

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

Your mechanic will start by using a scanner, volt/ohmmeter, and temperature gun to diagnose the problem. The steps will include:

• Examine the connectors and wiring, and replacing or repairing anything that is defective
• Re-test the system following repairs
• If the codes reappear, checking to see if the problem is intermittent (if the problem is determined to be intermittent, then the condition might have to get worse before a proper diagnosis can be made)
• Carefully compare the findings with the specifications provided by the vehicle manufacturer
• The vehicle should be taken out for a test drive, park it, allow it to idle, and then find out if the symptoms reappear
• Take a reading on the downstream oxygen sensor to see if it fluctuates as this could indicate a bad catalytic converter
• Inspect the oxygen sensor, fuel trim, fuel mixture and misfire codes before trying to diagnose the catalytic converter codes

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0438 Code

• The mechanics do not properly investigate the real reason why there is a failure in the catalytic converter and this can turn out to be a big mistake. The failure in the catalytic converter would occur when the code is stored and is not properly repaired. There can be some misfires in the engine which can further cause issues in the catalytic converter
• Many a times mechanics simply replace the oxygen sensor irrespective of it being perfect. This can be done to avoid replacing the catalytic converter which can be much expensive than replacing the oxygen sensor. They forget this thing that replacing oxygen sensor without any need would actually add upon the expenses
• In another effort to save the customer money, mechanics may also go with a rebuilt catalytic converter. Sure, they cost less, but they don’t last as long, and they don’t work as well, as OEM catalytic converters