P1238 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
Quick Answer
The P1238 code indicates a fault in the fuel pump secondary circuit. Common causes include Faulty fuel pump relay, Wiring or connection issues in the fuel pump circuit, Failed fuel pump control module. 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
- P1238 indicates Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty fuel pump relay, Wiring or connection issues in the fuel pump circuit, Failed fuel pump control module.
- 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.
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Code P1238 Description
The P1238 code indicates a fault in the fuel pump secondary circuit. This means that there is an issue with the electrical circuit that controls the fuel pump's operation. The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine, and any fault in its circuit can lead to performance issues and potential long-term damage if not addressed promptly.
Common Causes of P1238
- Faulty fuel pump relay
- Wiring or connection issues in the fuel pump circuit
- Failed fuel pump control module
- Corrosion or damage to the fuel pump wiring harness
- Issues with the fuel pump itself
Symptoms of P1238
- Difficulty starting the vehicle
- Engine stalling or hesitation during acceleration
- Rough idling or misfiring
- Decrease in fuel efficiency
- Complete failure of the fuel pump
How to Fix P1238
- Diagnose the issue by checking the fuel pump relay, wiring, and connections for any faults.
- Test the fuel pump control module for proper operation.
- Inspect the fuel pump wiring harness for corrosion or damage and repair or replace as necessary.
- If the fuel pump is found to be faulty, replace it with a new unit.
- Clear the diagnostic trouble codes and test the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.
Cost to Fix P1238
The cost of repairing a fuel pump secondary circuit fault can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the make and model of the vehicle. On average, the repair costs can range from $200 to $600, including parts and labor. However, it's important to note that diagnostic time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary, so it's advisable to check with local shops for a more accurate estimate.
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Code P1238 Information for Specific Makes
- P1238 Audi — Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 2
- P1238 Chevrolet — Injector 6 Output Circuit
- P1238 Ford — Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
- P1238 GMC — Injector 6 Output Circuit
- P1238 Infiniti — Electric Throttle Control Actuator
- P1238 Isuzu — High Fuel Pressure Regulator Circuit Shorted To Battery
- P1238 Mazda — Fuel Pump Driver Module Disabled Or Off Line
- P1238 Mitsubishi — MASS Airflow Sensor Plausibility
- P1238 Nissan — Electric Throttle Control Actuator
- P1238 Volkswagen — Injector Circuit Open Cylinder 2
- P1238 Volvo — Turbocharger Control valve
Frequently Asked Questions about P1238 Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P1238 (Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault)?
- Common symptoms include issues with starting the vehicle, engine stalling, and a lack of power while driving.
2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1238?
- Possible causes include a faulty fuel pump, damaged wiring or connectors in the fuel pump circuit, or a malfunctioning fuel pump driver module.
3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1238?
- Diagnosis typically involves checking the fuel pump's electrical connections, inspecting the fuel pump driver module, and testing the fuel pump itself for proper operation.
4. Can a clogged fuel filter trigger OBDII code P1238?
- While a clogged fuel filter can lead to fuel delivery issues, it is not a direct cause of OBDII code P1238. However, a severely clogged filter may impact fuel pump performance and trigger the code indirectly.
5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P1238 present?
- It is not recommended to continue driving with OBDII code P1238, as it can lead to fuel delivery problems and potentially cause the vehicle to stall unexpectedly.
6. How can I repair OBDII code P1238?
- Repairing OBDII code P1238 typically involves replacing a faulty fuel pump, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing the fuel pump driver module as needed.
7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1238 at home?
- Depending on the individual's skill level and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address OBDII code P1238 at home, particularly if the issue is related to simple wiring repairs.
8. Will resetting the fault codes make OBDII code P1238 disappear permanently?
- Resetting the fault codes may temporarily clear OBDII code P1238, but if the underlying issue is not addressed and repaired, the code is likely to reappear once the problem resurfaces.
9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1238 at a mechanic or dealership?
- The cost of repairing OBDII code P1238 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.
10. Can extreme weather conditions affect the occurrence of OBDII code P1238?
- Extreme weather conditions, particularly extreme heat or cold, can potentially impact the performance of the fuel pump and its associated components, which may contribute to triggering OBDII code P1238.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P1238 OBDII Code
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I just wanted to say that I was driving my 2000 s80 t6 and all of a sudden it lost power and then we before I could pull over the car died. This code came up p1238. The car would start but then a few seconds later would die. I opened the hood and where there is a double hose on the top of the engine, the hoses had come off and I reattached them and the car started and everything was fine.
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