B0338 BMW Fault Code

Description:

BMW HO2S Sensor Circuit Malfunction (HO2S-11) During testing the HO2S Heaters are checked for opens/shorts and excessive current draw.
The BMW test fails when current draw exceeds a calibrated limit and/or an open or short is detected. Short to VPWR in harness or HO2S. Water in harness connector. Open VPWR circuit. Open GND circuit. Low battery voltage. Corrosion or poor mating terminals and wiring Damaged HO2S heater. Damaged PCM.

B0338 Code Symptoms :

The rule of B0338 code when it comes to emissions-related vehicle repair is that any modification that changes the vehicle from a certified configuration to a non-certified configuration is considered tampering: this applies to both vehicle owners and repair facilities and is, therefore, a Federal offense. Replacing a catalyst with a straight pipe is one traditional example of B0338.

Likewise, overriding the OBD system through the use of high-tech defeat devices or non-certified computer chips, for example, would also be considered tampering. The OBD system may, however, be repaired back to its original certified configuration with certified performance chips or appropriate aftermarket parts.

Diagnosis And Repairing B0338

B0338 the main thing to check is to verify the operation of the VCT solenoid. You're looking for a sticking or stuck VCt solenoid valve caused by contamination. Refer to vehicle specific repair manual to perform component tests for the VCT unit.

How to fix B0338 code ?

• Damaged camshaft position (CMP) sensor
• Air fuel ratio (A/F) Sensor 1 Bank 1 harness is open or shorted
• Camshaft advance mechanism binding (VCT unit)
• Faulty variable valve timing (VVT)

Circuit High Input codes like B0338 are mostly caused by defective alternators that develop excessive voltages, although there may be other causes as well, such as short circuits that 'leak' current into a particular system from other, unrelated systems that work on higher voltages. Note that in the case of short circuits that leak power into a control circuit, there is likely to be other, seemingly unrelated trouble codes present along with the code(s) being investigated. Diagnosing a 'high input' code will always involve a thorough testing of the charging system as a first step, followed by measures to isolate the system from all other possible sources of power during resistance, continuity, and reference voltage tests.