FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Tesla/Model S/Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)/how to deal with the P0138 code in my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

how to deal with the P0138 code in my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

Error Codes
Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P01381-2 hours
3 min read
462 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0138 oxygen sensor circuit high issue in Tesla Model S Plaid. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0138
Affected Component
Exhaust System
Estimated Time
1-2 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before working on the exhaust components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Rough engine idle
  • •Possible loss of power during acceleration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's onboard computer using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the P0138 code.
  2. 2Inspect the wiring and connectors related to the oxygen sensor for physical damage or corrosion.
  3. 3Check the voltage output of the oxygen sensor using a multimeter to ensure it is within the expected range (typically around 0.1 - 0.9 volts for these sensors).
  4. 4Inspect the exhaust system for any leaks that could affect the oxygen sensor readings.
  5. 5Clear the P0138 code and perform a test drive to see if the code reappears.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the vehicle's battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.
  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner, multimeter, socket set, torque wrench, and oxygen sensor socket.

2. Inspect and Replace the Oxygen Sensor

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the undercarriage panel if necessary to access the oxygen sensor.
    2. Locate the oxygen sensor related to bank 1 (upstream).
    3. Disconnect the electrical connector from the oxygen sensor.
    4. Use the oxygen sensor socket to remove the sensor from the exhaust pipe.
    5. Inspect the old sensor for damage or excessive wear.
    6. Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the new oxygen sensor.
    7. Install the new oxygen sensor and torque it to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 30 lb-ft).
    8. Reconnect the electrical connector securely.

3. Reconnect Battery and Clear Codes

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Reconnect the vehicle's battery terminals.
    2. Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0138 code from the system.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •OBD-II scanner
  • •Multimeter
  • •Socket set
  • •Torque wrench
  • •Oxygen sensor socket

Parts Required

  • •New oxygen sensor (specific to the Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh)

Additional Information

Error Code
P0138
Affected Component
Exhaust System
Estimated Time
1-2 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
5 items
Parts Required
1 item

Related Faults

  1. why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) sound like it's idling rough?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough idling sound in Tesla Model S Plaid (2021-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Electrical5 symptoms

  2. how to fix the CVT slipping problem in my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix CVT slipping issues in Tesla Model S Plaid (2021-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Transmission5 symptoms

  3. why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) dashboard lights keep flickering?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix flickering dashboard lights in Tesla Model S Plaid. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Electrical5 symptoms

  4. why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) battery die when car is off

    Learn how to diagnose and fix battery drain issues in Tesla Model S Plaid. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Electrical5 symptoms

  5. why does my Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present) check engine light keep coming on?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the check engine light issue in Tesla Model S Plaid (2021-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Electrical6 symptoms

  6. how to troubleshoot transmission fluid leaks on Tesla Model S Plaid/Refresh (2021-present)?

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix transmission fluid leaks in Tesla Model S Plaid (2021-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic and repair instructions.

    Transmission5 symptoms

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation