OBD Guide

P038F

Ignition J Control Signal Circuit High

Severity
🔴 High
Can you drive?
Do not drive — repair immediately
Approx. repair cost
$33–278 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Misfire in cylinders controlled by coil J
  • Unstable engine operation
  • Possible overheating of coil J
  • Check Engine Light Is On
  • Loss of engine power

Causes

  • Short circuit of the control circuit of the coil J at +12V
  • Internal short circuit in ignition coil J
  • Damage to control circuit wire insulation
  • ECU control transistor malfunction
  • Moisture getting into the coil connector

How to Fix

  1. Read codes, freeze frame data
  2. Disconnect the J coil connector, check if the voltage on the control wire disappears
  3. Check the control wire for short circuit to +12V (resistance between the control contact and the power supply plus)
  4. Inspect the wiring for pinching or touching hot surfaces (insulation melting)
  5. Check the resistance of the primary winding of coil J
  6. Replace the coil and/or eliminate the short circuit in the wiring

Related codes

Error P038F by Vehicle Brand