Engine-CodesInfiniti – P1138 Infiniti

P1138 Infiniti Code - Swirl Control Valve Control System Performance

Quick Answer

The P1138 Infiniti code relates to the Swirl Control Valve Control System Performance. Common causes include Faulty Swirl Control Valve: The swirl control valve itself may be malfunctioning or stuck in a certain position, preventing it from operating correctly, Wiring Issues: Electrical problems such as damaged wiring or a faulty connection to the swirl control valve can trigger the P1138 code, Vacuum Leaks: Any leaks in the intake system can disrupt the airflow and affect the operation of the swirl control valve. 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
P1138 Infiniti indicates Swirl Control Valve Control System Performance.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Swirl Control Valve: The swirl control valve itself may be malfunctioning or stuck in a certain position, preventing it from operating correctly, Wiring Issues: Electrical problems such as damaged wiring or a faulty connection to the swirl control valve can trigger the P1138 code, Vacuum Leaks: Any leaks in the intake system can disrupt the airflow and affect the operation of the swirl control valve.
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.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 10, 2024
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Code P1138 Infiniti Description

The P1138 Infiniti code relates to the Swirl Control Valve Control System Performance. This code indicates that there is a problem with the performance of the swirl control valve in the vehicle's intake manifold. The swirl control valve is responsible for controlling the flow of air in the intake manifold, which affects the engine's combustion process. When this valve is not functioning correctly, it can lead to issues with engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions.

OBDII Code P1138 Infiniti - Swirl Control Valve Control System Performance
P1138 Infiniti Code - Swirl Control Valve Control System Performance

Common Causes of P1138 Infiniti

  1. Faulty Swirl Control Valve: The swirl control valve itself may be malfunctioning or stuck in a certain position, preventing it from operating correctly.
  2. Wiring Issues: Electrical problems such as damaged wiring or a faulty connection to the swirl control valve can trigger the P1138 code.
  3. Vacuum Leaks: Any leaks in the intake system can disrupt the airflow and affect the operation of the swirl control valve.
  4. Carbon Buildup: Accumulation of carbon deposits in the intake manifold can restrict the movement of the swirl control valve, leading to performance issues.

Symptoms of P1138 Infiniti

  1. Check Engine Light: The most common symptom associated with the P1138 code is the illumination of the check engine light on the vehicle's dashboard.
  2. Reduced Engine Performance: A decrease in engine power and performance may be noticeable, including sluggish acceleration and overall reduced driving performance.
  3. Poor Fuel Economy: The vehicle may experience decreased fuel efficiency, resulting in more frequent refueling and higher fuel costs.
  4. Rough Idle: The engine may idle rough or unevenly, causing vibrations or shaking while the vehicle is stationary.
  5. Increased Emissions: The vehicle may fail emissions tests or produce higher levels of pollutants due to improper combustion caused by the malfunctioning swirl control valve.

How to Fix P1138 Infiniti

  1. Diagnose the Issue: Use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code (P1138) and perform a visual inspection of the swirl control valve and related components.
  2. Test Swirl Control Valve: Test the swirl control valve for proper operation by manually moving it and checking for any sticking or binding.
  3. Check Wiring: Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for any damage or loose connections. Repair or replace any faulty wiring as needed.
  4. Clean Intake System: Remove any carbon buildup in the intake manifold and clean the swirl control valve to ensure smooth operation.
  5. Replace Swirl Control Valve: If the swirl control valve is found to be faulty, replace it with a new one to restore proper functionality.

Cost to Fix P1138 Infiniti

The typical repair costs for addressing the P1138 Infiniti code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the labor rates at the auto repair shop. On average, the cost of parts for a new swirl control valve can range from $150 to $300, with additional costs for labor and diagnostic testing. The total repair cost can range from $250 to $500 or more, depending on the extent of the repairs needed. It's important to note that labor rates can vary widely based on location and the repair shop's rates, so it's advisable to obtain multiple quotes for a more accurate estimate.

When is the Code Detected?

The P1138 code is detected when the target opening angle of swirl control valve controlled by Engine Control Module (ECM) and the input signal from swirl control valve position sensor is not in the normal rang.

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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.

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