P0438 Bmw 420 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0438 Bmw 420 code definition:
P0438 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Bmw 420.

P0438 Bmw 420 is defined as Ignition Coil B Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction.This code is a generic trouble code, meaning it applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II tool, or vehicles made since 1996 up to present. This is because the barometric pressure sensor is part of the MAF sensor. Sometimes, the MAF's sensing wire can accumulate and get covered with dirt, dust and/or oil residue, which can also lead to the error code.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0438 Bmw 420 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Lack of power
Faulty O2 Sensor
Poor acceleration
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected

Possible Causes :

A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.
Faulty IMRC actuator relay (if equipped)
Rough running engine due to misfiring plugs. Many engines have misfire codes to indicate the cylinder effected, such as P0307 for number 7.

Common Misdiagnoses

Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit Performance Problem
TP Sensor Learn Not Complete Problem
Low Coolant Circuit Problem
Cruise Control System - Vehicle Accel Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem

Repair Processes :

You might continue by connecting the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieving all stored codes and freeze frame data. 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. 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.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0438 Bmw 420 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 P0438 Bmw 420.

Fortunately, P0438 Bmw 420 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.