C0138 Seat Altea Diagnostic Trouble Code

C0138 Seat Altea code definition:
C0138 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Seat Altea.

C0138 Seat Altea is defined as Knock Sensor Circuit Range Performance (Bank 1 or Single Sensor). This refers to camshaft timing, which in this case is over-retarded. The PCM then uses this data to provide the right strategies for the fuel delivery and ignition timing of the engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C0138 Seat Altea diagnostic trouble code may include:

If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected
Corroded or damaged connector
Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.

Possible Causes :

Low fuel pressure caused by a clogged filter, failing fuel pump, failed fuel pressure regulator or clogged or leaking injectors.
Low fuel pressure caused by a clogged filter, failing fuel pump, failed fuel pressure regulator or clogged or leaking injectors.
Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly

Common Misdiagnoses

TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem
Problem

Repair Processes :

Find out what kind of system you have and verify that voltage to the fuel level sensor is present at the fuel pump wiring harness. Oxygen sensors signal the engine management computer the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust, which is used in determining and controlling the fuel ratio. Use the DVOM to test resistance and continuity on all system circuits if actuator and sensor resistance levels are in compliance with manufacturer's specifications.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C0138 Seat Altea is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before C0138 Seat Altea.

Fortunately, C0138 Seat Altea is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.