P0138 • Powertrain System

P0138: Powertrain Diagnostic Fault Code P0138 — Meaning, Symptoms & Fixes

Detailed OBD2 fault code breakdown, severity assessment, repair advice, and shop cost range for code P0138.

What does fault code P0138 mean?

Diagnostic trouble code P0138 is defined as Powertrain Diagnostic Fault Code P0138. This standard OBD2 code is triggered when your car's powertrain or module sensor voltage deviates from calibrated safety tolerances.

Severity & Can I Drive With Code P0138?

Severity Rating: 2/5 (Moderate Severity)

ℹ️ Can I Drive? You can drive short distances safely, but address this fault soon to maintain optimal engine performance and pass emissions testing.

Common Symptoms of P0138

  • Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated for P0138
  • Occasional hesitation under load

Common Causes Ranked by Likelihood

  • Faulty sensor or circuit in P0138 monitoring pathway
  • Wiring harness corrosion
  • ECU signal out of range

DIY Repair & Troubleshooting Steps

  • Inspect sensor connectors for P0138
  • Test circuit voltage using OBDAssistant live telemetry

Professional Shop Repair & Estimated Cost Range

  • Replace failing sensor component
  • Repair harness wiring

Estimated Repair Cost Range: $60 - $400

Related Diagnostic Codes & Knowledge Base

Cross-reference these related trouble codes and technical articles:

P0100P0300P0420 Fuel Trim Mastery Article Emissions Readiness Article

Diagnose P0138 instantly with OBDAssistant AI

Connect any cheap Bluetooth ELM327 adapter and ask OBDAssistant to analyze code P0138 for your exact car model.

Get OBDAssistant Free
Diagnose P0138 instantly with OBDAssistant AI Scan Code Free →