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P0138 2010 Honda Accord Code - HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0138 in a 2010 Honda Accord indicates an issue with the HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit, specifically low voltage. Common causes include Faulty HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2, Wiring issues (shorts, open circuits), Malfunctioning ECM. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means
P0138 2010 Honda Accord indicates HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2, Wiring issues (shorts, open circuits), Malfunctioning ECM.
Severity
Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?
The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 12, 2024
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Code P0138 2010 Honda Accord Description

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0138 in a 2010 Honda Accord indicates an issue with the HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit, specifically low voltage. The HO2S is responsible for monitoring the oxygen content in the exhaust gases and sending this information to the engine control module (ECM) to adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal combustion. Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine that contains cylinder 1, while Sensor 2 indicates the sensor located downstream of the catalytic converter.

OBDII Code P0138 2010 Honda Accord - HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage
P0138 2010 Honda Accord Code - HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage

Common Causes of P0138 2010 Honda Accord

  1. Faulty HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2
  2. Wiring issues (shorts, open circuits)
  3. Malfunctioning ECM
  4. Exhaust leaks
  5. Damaged catalytic converter

Symptoms of P0138 2010 Honda Accord

  1. Decreased fuel efficiency
  2. Rough idle
  3. Hesitation or stalling
  4. Increased emissions
  5. Failed emissions testing

How to Fix P0138 2010 Honda Accord

  1. Diagnose the issue by using a scan tool to retrieve the specific trouble code and determine the voltage output of the HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2.
  2. Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage or corrosion. Repair or replace as necessary.
  3. Test the HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 using a multimeter to check for proper voltage output. Replace the sensor if it is faulty.
  4. Verify proper operation by clearing the code, driving the vehicle to allow the ECM to relearn, and rechecking for any recurrence of the code.
  5. If the code persists, further diagnostic testing may be required to identify any underlying issues with the ECM or catalytic converter.

Cost to Fix P0138 2010 Honda Accord

The typical repair costs for resolving a P0138 code in a 2010 Honda Accord can range from $150 to $300, including parts and labor. However, the actual cost may vary depending on the specific diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops. Rates can range from $80 to $150 per hour, with higher rates in metropolitan areas or at dealerships, and lower rates at independent shops. It is advisable to obtain local estimates for a more accurate cost assessment.

What does this mean?

Tech Notes for P0138 2010 Honda Accord

Replacing the Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 usually takes care of the problem.

When is the Code Detected?

The P0138 code is set when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the rear O2 sensor signal voltage remains excessively high for an extended period of time.

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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 P0138 2010 Honda Accord Code

1. What does OBDII code P0138 on a 2010 Honda Accord indicate?

- This code, HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage, suggests a problem with the oxygen sensor (sensor 2) on bank 1 in your Accord's exhaust system.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0138 in a 2010 Honda Accord?

- Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine hesitation, and the illumination of the check engine light.

3. What are the possible causes of the HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage code in a 2010 Honda Accord?

- Causes could include a faulty oxygen sensor, wiring issues in the sensor circuit, exhaust leaks, or a problem with the engine's air-fuel mixture.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0138 on my 2010 Honda Accord?

- You can diagnose this code by using an OBDII scanner to read the code, inspecting the oxygen sensor and its wiring, checking for exhaust leaks, and testing the air-fuel ratio.

5. Can I drive my 2010 Honda Accord with the P0138 code?

- It is not recommended to drive your Accord with the P0138 code as it can lead to poor engine performance and potentially cause further damage.

6. How can I repair the HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Circuit Low Voltage code on my 2010 Honda Accord?

- Repair options include replacing the oxygen sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, fixing exhaust leaks, or addressing issues with the engine's air-fuel mixture.

7. Are there any DIY tips for fixing the P0138 code in a 2010 Honda Accord?

- While some tasks like checking the sensor connections or replacing the sensor could be done by DIY enthusiasts, more complex repairs may require professional help.

8. How much does it typically cost to fix the OBDII code P0138 on a 2010 Honda Accord?

- The cost can vary depending on the root cause, but it may range from $100 to $400 for parts and labor if you need to replace the oxygen sensor or address wiring issues.

9. Will resetting the check engine light make the P0138 code go away in my 2010 Honda Accord?

- Resetting the check engine light will clear the code temporarily, but it will likely reappear if the underlying issue causing the P0138 code is not addressed.

10. How often should I replace the oxygen sensors in my 2010 Honda Accord to prevent OBDII codes like P0138?

- Oxygen sensors generally last around 60,000 to 90,000 miles, so it's recommended to replace them within this mileage range to avoid potential issues like the P0138 code.

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