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P0C38 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

OBD Code P0C38 - DC/DC Converter Temperature Sensor "A" Circuit

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If you experience exponential drop in the acceleration and power from the hybrid motor, and your car engine is stalling with improper throttle response and Check Engine Light turned on. It might be an indicative to OBD Code P0C38 error leading to converter temperature sensor “A” circuit issue.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P0C38

The boost converter temperature is measured by the generator motor ECU using the embedded temperature sensors. The voltage output varies with the change in the temperature. Higher the temperature, lower the voltage and lower the temperature, higher the voltage. Thus, the ECU manages the temperature and prevents the converter from overheating. Thus, when any malfunction is found in the converter temperature sensor “A” circuit, OBD code P0C38 gets stored in the PCM.


What causes this problem with the DC/DC Converter Temperature Sensor "A" Circuit?


  • Boost converter temperature sensor replacement
  • Inverter with converter assembly faulty
  • ECU and PCM faults
  • Temperature sensor wiring and connectors damaged

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix OBD Code P0C38

  1. Inverter Cooler Pump - Inverter cooler pump is responsible for keeping the boost converter temperatures under control. Thus, if it is not functioning properly, the converter can overheat and result in under performance of the system. Buy new cooler pump and replace in now!
  2. Battery Temperature Sensor - The temperature sensor is important to keep the battery from overheating. Thus if the temperature sensor is faulty, it must be replaced immediately. Buy new temperature sensor from us now!
  3. Powertrain Control Module - Faulty PCM will not be able to interpret the information from the power management system correctly and this can cause wrong OBD codes to get stored in the system. Thus can further lead to costly misdiagnosis altogether. Thus, replace it now!
  4. Electronic Control Unit - ECU monitors the temperature differences in the boost converter with the help of the temperature sensors to prevent the converter from overheating and malfunctioning. Thus, replace faulty ECU immediately.
  5. Diagnostic Tool - You will need high grade diagnostic tools for correction of the OBD error code which is detected. Visit us today to grab amazing deals.

Symptoms Of OBD Error Code P0C38

It is essential to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P0C38 here:


Common Symptoms


  • Illumination of Check Engine Light
  • Affected acceleration and throttle response
  • Vehicle running in "limp" mode to protect the engine
  • Vehicle not starting at all

How To Correct P0C38 DC/DC Converter Temperature Sensor "A" Circuit

Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P0C38.


  • Repair or replace faulty converter temperature sensor
  • Replace damaged wiring and connectors
  • Replace faulty boost converter
  • Repair and reprogram faulty ECU/PCM

There is no need to be anxious as Parts Avatar – Car Parts Online is here to help you out! We have high grade Inverter with Converter Assembly, Boost Converter Temperature Sensor, and Wiring/Connections Are Defective, Sensor Defective and a lot more for our precious customers.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P0C38

It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P0C38 code to be stored:


  • The mechanic or the technician will use a diagnostic scanner or code reader like DVOM to visually scan for the error codes in the vehicle.
  • After performing a careful inspection, every of the stored codes and freeze frame data are retrieved as it can help down the way for further diagnosis process.
  • Most often he has to inspect the temperature sensor itself to see if they are faulty or damaged. Additional error codes that are stored in the vehicle are also addressed.
  • The mechanic performs a continuity test between the PCM and solenoid to check the resistance.
  • If the solenoid or the control modules are not faulty, he will then re-tune the code and test drive the vehicle.
  • On test driving, if the P0C38 code does not return soon, he will know that an erratic condition exists.
  • But if the error returns instantaneously, he will check every components of the control module as well as the circuit like connectors, wires, harness, fuses, etc. for any possible fault.
  • If any component is damaged, he will fix them right away.
  • After performing this repair, he will inspect the transmission fluid as well as its level.
  • If the level is below the manufacturer’s specification, it has to be refilled and if the fluid is murky or contaminated it needs to be replaced.
  • Every time a repair work is carried out, make sure that the mechanic test drives the vehicle after every repair so that the diagnosis is successful. This can eventually help him to know as to where the error occurred.
  • A sure sign of this is smoke or steam being emitted from underneath the hood. The ignition timing could be set incorrectly and will require adjustment.
  • A noticeable pool of fluid underneath the car could be a sign of the cylinder head gasket failing. That can cause billowing smoke being blown from the exhaust system.
  • Check for PCM and ECU faults and replace it, if required to do so.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0C38 Code


  • Battery contactor assembly issues
  • Hybrid Battery circuit issue
  • Converter temperature sensor faulty
  • Boost converter problematic
  • Faulty battery harness and connectors
  • Energy Control Module faults

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P0C38

P0C39 - DC/DC Converter Temperature Sensor "A" Range/Performance

P0C3A - DC/DC Converter Temperature Sensor "A" Low

P0C3B - DC/DC Converter Temperature Sensor "A" High

P0C3C - DC/DC Converter Temperature Sensor "A" Intermittent/Erratic