P0438
Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 2 Sensor 1
What it means
P0438 means Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 2 Sensor 1.
Where it lives
For P0438, the sensor sits on the circuit this code reports. The description of P0438 puts it on bank 2.
Check these first
- A catalyst temperature sensor on bank 2 sensor 1 reading high
- An open in the sensor signal wire
- A poor pin fit at the sensor connector
- A bank 2 converter overheating from a rich condition
- An ECM fault on the sensor circuit
What to do next
- Read the sensor voltage on a scan tool
- Check the sensor signal wire for an open
- Inspect the sensor connector pins
- Check bank 2 fuel trims and misfire counters
- Replace the sensor if the voltage stays high
- Clear the code and retest
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Updated
Generic SAE J2012 definition. Last updated 2026-10-10.