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P0438 Severity
Once the vehicle's onboard system no longer detects the issue, most codes will disappear on their own. If your vehicle still has this code, however, it should be properly diagnosed to avoid a more serious problem.
For a proper diagnosis, RepairPal Certified shops have the equipment, tools, and expertise.
Moderate severity codes might not threaten the vehicle's safety or functionality immediately, but you should still get it diagnosed within a reasonable time frame to keep your car running well.
The Catalytic Converter uses multiple temperature sensors to ensure that the Catalytic Converter is working properly and does not overheat. When the engine control module (PCM) determines there is an incorrect signal from the Catalytic Converter Temperature Sensor, the PCM will set code P0438.
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OBD-II Code Catalytic converter temperature sensor failure is defined as a Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit High
The Catalytic Converter uses multiple temperature sensors to ensure that the Catalytic Converter is working properly and does not overheat. When the engine control module (PCM) determines there is an incorrect signal from the Catalytic Converter Temperature Sensor, the PCM will set code P0438.