P0838 BMW Fault Code

Description:

Catalytic converters must be warm before they can work properly. On a cold start the PCM provides a rich mixture to keep the cold engine running.
All that extra fuel goes into the catalytic converter. But the exhaust isn't very hot, because, ah, the engine is pretty cold. GM has employed several strategies to fire up the catalytic converter quicker and reduce cold start emissions. One way is to use a secondary air pump that pumps outside air directly into the catalytic converter.

P0838 Code Symptoms :

While fuel economy was increased, acceleration was seriously compromised, and the loss of engine vacuum led to a dangerous loss of braking assist when the P0838 code system was in four-cylinder mode. In addition to these issues, while the company proposed a hydraulically controlled system that could be switched from within the car, the version they implemented had to be manually changed in the engine compartment using hand tools.

Diagnosis And Repairing P0838

P0838 the main thing to check is to verify the operation of the VCT solenoid. You're looking for a sticking or stuck VCt solenoid valve caused by contamination. Refer to vehicle specific repair manual to perform component tests for the VCT unit.

How to fix P0838 code ?

• Air fuel ratio (A/F) Sensor 1 Bank 1 harness is open or shorted
• Faulty Air fuel ratio (A/F) Sensor 1 Bank 1
• Clogged or faulty fuel injector (s)
• Intake Valve Timing Control Solenoid Valve harness is open or shorted