Engine-CodesFord – P1238 2002 Ford F150

P1238 2002 Ford F150 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault

Quick Answer

The P1238 code on a 2002 Ford F150 indicates a Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault. Common causes include Faulty fuel pump relay, Damaged wiring or connectors, Corrosion in the fuel pump circuit. 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 2002 Ford F150 indicates Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty fuel pump relay, Damaged wiring or connectors, Corrosion in the fuel pump circuit.
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 13, 2024
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Code P1238 2002 Ford F150 Description

The P1238 code on a 2002 Ford F150 indicates a Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault. This means that there is an issue with the secondary circuit of the fuel pump, which is responsible for providing the necessary fuel pressure to the engine. The fuel pump is a crucial component of the vehicle's fuel system, as it ensures that the engine receives the correct amount of fuel for combustion. When this circuit is faulty, it can lead to a variety of performance issues and potentially cause long-term damage if not addressed promptly.

OBDII Code P1238 2002 Ford F150 - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault
P1238 2002 Ford F150 Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault

Common Causes of P1238 2002 Ford F150

  1. Faulty fuel pump relay
  2. Damaged wiring or connectors
  3. Corrosion in the fuel pump circuit
  4. Fuel pump failure
  5. Electrical issues in the fuel pump system

Symptoms of P1238 2002 Ford F150

  1. Engine misfires
  2. Stalling or hesitation during acceleration
  3. Difficulty starting the vehicle
  4. Rough idling
  5. Decreased fuel efficiency

How to Fix P1238 2002 Ford F150

  1. Begin by diagnosing the exact cause of the fuel pump secondary circuit fault using a diagnostic scanner to pinpoint the issue.
  2. Inspect the fuel pump relay, wiring, and connectors for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
  3. Test the fuel pump to ensure it is functioning properly and providing the correct fuel pressure to the engine.
  4. Replace the faulty fuel pump relay, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, and clean any corrosion in the circuit.
  5. Clear the diagnostic trouble codes, reset the vehicle's computer, and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P1238 2002 Ford F150

The typical repair costs for a fuel pump secondary circuit fault can range from $200 to $500, including parts and labor. However, it's important to note that specific diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops can vary based on factors such as location, vehicle make and model, and engine type. Most auto repair shops charge between $80 and $150 per hour for labor, but rates may be higher in metropolitan areas or at dealerships, while independent shops may offer lower rates. For a more accurate estimate, it's recommended to check local rates before proceeding with the repair.

Tech Notes for P1238 2002 Ford F150

Note: For LS6/LS8 and Thunderbird, the FPDM functions are incorporated in the Rear Electronics Module (REM). Also, the REM does not use an FPM circuit. Diagnostic information is sent on the communication link.

P1238 indicates that the FPDM has detected a fuel pump secondary circuit fault. The FPDM will send a message to the PCM through the FPM circuit, indicating that this failure has been detected. The PCM will set the DTC when the message is received.

When is the Code Detected?

Fuel pump driver module has detected a fault in the fuel pump secondary circuit

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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 P1238 2002 Ford F150 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P1238 on a 2002 Ford F150?

- Common symptoms include engine misfires, stalling, rough idling, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P1238 indicate on a 2002 Ford F150?

- The P1238 code indicates a fault in the fuel pump secondary circuit of the vehicle.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1238 on a 2002 Ford F150?

- Possible causes include a faulty fuel pump driver module, wiring issues, a failing fuel pump, or a malfunctioning fuel pump relay.

4. How can I diagnose the fuel pump secondary circuit fault causing OBDII code P1238 on my 2002 Ford F150?

- Diagnosing this issue typically involves checking the fuel pump driver module, inspecting the wiring for damage, testing the fuel pump relay, and verifying the fuel pump's functionality.

5. Can I drive my 2002 Ford F150 with OBDII code P1238 present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with code P1238 present, as it can lead to potential fuel delivery issues and engine performance problems.

6. How can I repair the fuel pump secondary circuit fault triggering OBDII code P1238 on my 2002 Ford F150?

- Repair methods may include replacing the fuel pump driver module, repairing damaged wiring, replacing the fuel pump, or swapping out the fuel pump relay.

7. Are there any DIY tips for addressing OBDII code P1238 on a 2002 Ford F150?

- DIY enthusiasts can start by checking the fuel pump fuse, inspecting the wiring connections, and testing the fuel pump relay before considering more complex repairs.

8. Will resetting the OBDII code P1238 on my 2002 Ford F150 make the issue go away?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but the underlying issue causing code P1238 will persist until it is properly diagnosed and repaired.

9. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code P1238 on a 2002 Ford F150?

- The cost of fixing 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 for parts and labor.

10. Can a mechanic easily resolve the fuel pump secondary circuit fault triggering OBDII code P1238 on my 2002 Ford F150?

- A qualified mechanic with experience in diagnosing and repairing fuel system issues should be able to effectively resolve the problem causing code P1238 on your Ford F150.

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