OBD Guide
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P0638

Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance Bank 1

P0638 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance Bank 1. Common causes: throttle valve is dirty or stuck (carbon deposits, oil), throttle motor malfunction. Estimated repair cost: $11–278.

Severity
🔴 High
Can you drive?
Do not drive — repair immediately
Approx. repair cost
$11–278 (est.)

Symptoms

  • The engine has entered limp mode.
  • Dips and jerks when pressing the gas pedal
  • Check Engine light comes on
  • Unstable idle speed
  • Reduced engine power and throttle response

Causes

  • Throttle valve is dirty or stuck (carbon deposits, oil)
  • Throttle motor malfunction
  • Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) malfunction
  • Damage to wiring or throttle circuit connectors
  • ECU malfunction (rare)

How to Fix

  1. Read all error codes and sensor data in real time
  2. Clean the throttle body with a special throttle body cleaner
  3. Check the throttle position sensor (TPS) signal with an oscilloscope or scanner
  4. Inspect the throttle body wiring and connectors
  5. Check the mechanical freedom of movement of the damper - it should move smoothly
  6. If necessary, replace the throttle body assembly or adapt after cleaning

Related codes

P0639P0120P0121P0122P0123P2100P2101

Error P0638 by Vehicle Brand

AcuraAudiBAICBMWBYDBuickCadillacChanganCheryChevroletChryslerCitroenDodgeDongfengExeedFAWFordForthingFotonGACGMGMCGeelyGreat WallHavalHondaHongqiHyundaiInfinitiJACJaecooJaguarJeepJetourKaiyiKiaLadaLexusLi AutoLifanLincolnLivanMazdaMercedes-BenzMercuryMitsubishiNIONissanOldsmobileOmodaOpelPeugeotPlymouthPontiacRenaultSWMSaturnSkodaSkywellSubaruSuzukiTankToyotaVolkswagenVolvoVoyahXPengZeekrZotye

FAQ

What does the P0638 code mean?

P0638 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance Bank 1

What causes a P0638 error code?

The most common causes of P0638 include: Throttle valve is dirty or stuck (carbon deposits, oil); Throttle motor malfunction; Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) malfunction; Damage to wiring or throttle circuit connectors.

How do I fix a P0638 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix P0638: Read all error codes and sensor data in real time. Clean the throttle body with a special throttle body cleaner. Check the throttle position sensor (TPS) signal with an oscilloscope or scanner. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with P0638?

Do not drive — repair immediately

How much does it cost to fix P0638?

The estimated repair cost for P0638 is $11–278. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

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See also: Russian version · NationStat