Engine-CodesHonda – P0138 Honda

P0138 Honda Code - Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage

Quick Answer

The P0138 code for Honda vehicles indicates an issue with the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage. Common causes include Faulty oxygen sensor, Wiring or connector issues, Exhaust leaks. 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 Honda indicates Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty oxygen sensor, Wiring or connector issues, Exhaust leaks.
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.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 19, 2024
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Code P0138 Honda Description

The P0138 code for Honda vehicles indicates an issue with the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the oxygen levels in the exhaust gases and providing feedback to the engine control module to adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal combustion. When the voltage from the sensor is higher than normal, it suggests that there may be an electrical problem in the circuit, potentially leading to inaccurate readings and improper fuel mixture adjustments. This can result in reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and poor engine performance.

OBDII Code P0138 Honda - Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage
P0138 Honda Code - Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage

Common Causes of P0138 Honda

  1. Faulty oxygen sensor
  2. Wiring or connector issues
  3. Exhaust leaks
  4. Engine running too rich
  5. PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failure

Symptoms of P0138 Honda

  1. Decreased fuel efficiency
  2. Rough idle or stalling
  3. Engine misfires
  4. Check Engine Light illuminated
  5. Failed emissions test

How to Fix P0138 Honda

  1. Begin by identifying the specific location of the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2.
  2. Inspect the wiring and connectors for any damage or corrosion. Repair or replace as necessary.
  3. Test the oxygen sensor using a multimeter to determine if it is faulty. Replace if needed.
  4. Clear the trouble code from the PCM and drive the vehicle to see if the issue has been resolved.
  5. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be required to pinpoint the exact cause.

Cost to Fix P0138 Honda

The cost of repairing a P0138 code on a Honda vehicle can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. In general, replacing a faulty oxygen sensor can cost between $100 and $200 for the part, with additional labor costs ranging from $100 to $200. Overall, the total repair cost could fall within the range of $200 to $400. Keep in mind that diagnostic time and labor rates can influence the final cost, so it's advisable to consult with a trusted mechanic for a more accurate estimate.

Tech Notes for P0138 Honda

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





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Information for Specific Honda Models

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 Honda Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0138 in a Honda related to the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage?

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

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0138 in a Honda?

- The code P0138 in a Honda typically indicates issues with the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage, which can be caused by a faulty oxygen sensor, wiring problems, or a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0138 in my Honda related to the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage?

- To diagnose the issue, you can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code and then inspect the oxygen sensor, check the wiring for any damage, and test the ECM for proper functioning.

4. Is it safe to continue driving my Honda with OBDII code P0138 indicating an issue with the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage?

- It is not recommended to drive your Honda with code P0138 unresolved, as it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and potentially cause damage to the catalytic converter over time.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0138 related to the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage in my Honda?

- Repairing code P0138 may involve replacing the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2, repairing damaged wiring, or reprogramming the ECM. It is advisable to consult a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.

6. Can a dirty or contaminated oxygen sensor cause OBDII code P0138 in a Honda?

- Yes, a dirty or contaminated oxygen sensor can cause code P0138 by affecting its ability to accurately measure the oxygen levels in the exhaust gases, leading to high voltage readings.

7. Are there any maintenance tips to prevent OBDII code P0138 related to the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage in my Honda?

- Regularly scheduled maintenance, such as replacing oxygen sensors at recommended intervals, inspecting wiring for damage, and using high-quality fuel, can help prevent issues that may trigger code P0138.

8. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0138 related to the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage in a Honda?

- The repair time for code P0138 can vary depending on the cause of the issue and the extent of repairs needed. It may take anywhere from 1-3 hours in most cases.

9. Can I reset the check engine light after repairing OBDII code P0138 in my Honda related to the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage?

- Yes, after repairing the issue causing code P0138, you can reset the check engine light by using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the car's battery for a few minutes to clear the error code.

10. Will OBDII code P0138 related to the Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage cause my Honda to fail an emissions test?

- Yes, code P0138 can cause your Honda to fail an emissions test as it indicates a problem with the oxygen sensor, which is crucial for proper emissions control. It is important to address the issue before undergoing an emissions test.

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