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Engine-Codes – Ford – P1238 Ford

P1238 Ford Code - Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault

Quick Answer

The P1238 Ford code indicates a fault in the fuel pump secondary circuit. Common causes include Wiring issues or electrical faults, Faulty fuel pump relay, Defective fuel pump driver 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 Ford indicates Fuel Pump Secondary Circuit Fault.
Common causes
Common causes include Wiring issues or electrical faults, Faulty fuel pump relay, Defective fuel pump driver 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.
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 07, 2024
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Code P1238 Ford Description

The P1238 Ford code indicates a fault in the fuel pump secondary circuit. The fuel pump is a crucial component of the vehicle's fuel delivery system, responsible for pumping fuel from the tank to the engine. The secondary circuit is a part of the fuel pump system that controls the fuel pump's operation. When this circuit fails or malfunctions, it can lead to a variety of issues that can affect the vehicle's performance and efficiency.

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

Common Causes of P1238 Ford

  1. Wiring issues or electrical faults
  2. Faulty fuel pump relay
  3. Defective fuel pump driver module
  4. Malfunctioning fuel pump
  5. Corrosion or damage to connections

Symptoms of P1238 Ford

  1. Check engine light illuminated on the dashboard
  2. Hard starting or difficulty starting the engine
  3. Stalling or engine hesitation
  4. Reduced fuel efficiency
  5. Engine misfires

How to Fix P1238 Ford

  1. Perform a diagnostic scan to retrieve the specific trouble code and pinpoint the cause of the issue.
  2. Inspect the wiring connections and harness for any damage or corrosion, repairing or replacing as needed.
  3. Test the fuel pump relay and replace if found to be faulty.
  4. Check the fuel pump driver module for defects and replace if necessary.
  5. Test the fuel pump's functionality and replace if it is determined to be the cause of the fault.

Cost to Fix P1238 Ford

The cost of repairing a fuel pump secondary circuit fault can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the labor rates at the auto repair shop. On average, the repair costs for this type of problem can range from $200 to $500, including parts and labor. However, it's essential to keep in mind that labor rates can vary significantly based on location, vehicle make and model, and the type of engine. It is advisable to obtain quotes from local auto repair shops to get a more accurate estimate for the repair.

What does this mean?

Tech Notes for P1238 Ford

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.

When is the Code Detected?

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

Need more information about the P1238 Ford code?

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Information for Specific Ford 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 P1238 Ford Code

What does the OBDII code P1238 mean for a Ford vehicle?

P1238 indicates a fuel pump secondary circuit fault, meaning there is a problem with the secondary circuit of the fuel pump, which can affect fuel delivery.

What are common symptoms of the P1238 code?

Common symptoms include a check engine light, difficulty starting the vehicle, engine stalling, or poor engine performance due to inadequate fuel supply.

What could cause the P1238 code to trigger?

Causes can include a faulty fuel pump, damaged wiring or connectors in the fuel pump circuit, a bad fuel pump relay, or issues with the powertrain control module (PCM).

How can I diagnose the P1238 code?

Start by using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code. Inspect the fuel pump relay, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion. Test the fuel pump for proper operation.

Is it safe to drive a vehicle with the P1238 code?

Driving with this code may not be safe, as it can lead to fuel delivery issues, resulting in engine stalling or failure to start. It's best to address the problem promptly.

What repairs are typically needed for the P1238 code?

Repairs may include replacing the fuel pump, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a faulty fuel pump relay.

Can the P1238 code be cleared, and will it come back?

Yes, the code can be cleared using an OBDII scanner. However, if the underlying issue isn't resolved, the code is likely to return.

Will a bad fuel pump always trigger the P1238 code?

Not necessarily. A bad fuel pump may trigger other codes, but if the issue affects the secondary circuit of the fuel pump, it can trigger the P1238 code.

What is the cost of repairing the P1238 code?

Repair costs vary widely based on the specific issue, but fixing wiring issues may be less expensive than replacing a fuel pump, which can range from $300 to $1,000 including parts and labor.

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