P0838 Oldsmobile F-85 Diagnostic Trouble Code

P0838 Oldsmobile F-85 code definition:
P0838 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Oldsmobile F-85.

P0838 Oldsmobile F-85 is described as Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1, Sensor 1). This means there's a problem in the front oxygen sensor on Bank 1, as the O2 sensor is inactive. So if the problem persists despite of your diagnosis, then you should never hesitate to take your vehicle to your dealer or to a qualified mechanic.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0838 Oldsmobile F-85 diagnostic trouble code may include:

Lack of power
Faulty O2 Sensor
Poor acceleration
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.
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 :

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. Once located, visually inspect the connectors and wiring. Look for rubbing, scraping, bare wires, worn spots or melted plastic connectors.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P0838 Oldsmobile F-85 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 P0838 Oldsmobile F-85.

Fortunately, P0838 Oldsmobile F-85 is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.