P0038 Packard Super Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0038 Packard Super code definition:
P0038 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Packard Super.

P0038 Packard Super is described as Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor Circuit Malfunction. This code is strictly about the incoming signal from the FRP (fuel rail pressure) sensor falling below the calibrated limit for a certain period of time. As you drive and when specific conditions are slowly met, the vapors will gradually purge from the charcoal canister and will get burned within your engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0038 Packard Super diagnostic trouble code may include:

Poor acceleration
Cherry red hot catalytic converter
Possible spark knock (detonation / pre-ignition)
Hesitation upon acceleration

Possible Causes :

Some aftermarket accessories and performance modifications
A faulty oxygen sensor. This will set a code in itself, however, a faulty oxygen sensor does not automatically condemn the sensor. The code just means that the sensor signal was not within specifications. An air leak or any of the above will cause an erroneous signal. There is a multitude of O2 codes relating to O2 performance which gives a clue to the problematic area.
A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.

Common Misdiagnoses

Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Valve 1 Problem
BBV Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Problem
Transmission Engaged At High Throttle Angle Problem
Cruise Inhibit Control Circuit Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem

Repair Processes :

Look at the plug wires to make sure they are not burnt or laying on the exhaust. With the valve disconnected, the red voltmeter lead should be attached to the IMRC valve power wire and the black voltmeter lead connected to ground. You might continue by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0038 Packard Super 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 P0038 Packard Super.

Fortunately, P0038 Packard Super is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.