Chevrolet P2138 Error Code: How to Fix It
Medium 1-2 hours High Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- P2138
- Brand
- Chevrolet
- Product Type
- automotive
- Severity
- High
- DIY Difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated Fix Time
- 1-2 hours
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Tools You'll Need
- OBD2 scanner
- Digital multimeter
- Basic hand tools
- Throttle body cleaner
- Electrical contact cleaner
- Safety glasses
How to Fix Error Code P2138
-
Turn off engine and engage safety
Never work on the throttle body with the engine running or hot. The electronic throttle control system operates under high voltage. -
Connect OBD2 scanner and verify codes
-
Locate the throttle body assembly
-
Inspect throttle body electrical connections
Disconnect the negative battery terminal before unplugging electrical connections to prevent damage to the ECM. -
Check wiring harness for damage
-
Test throttle position sensor voltages
Do not force the throttle plate open manually. Use gentle pressure only. -
Perform throttle body cleaning
Use only throttle body cleaner - never use carburetor cleaner or harsh solvents on electronic throttle bodies. -
Clear codes and test drive
If the vehicle still has reduced power or rough operation, do not drive aggressively until the issue is fully diagnosed.
Parts You May Need
Throttle body assembly
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Throttle body gasket
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OBD2 scanner
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Digital multimeter
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Throttle body assembly
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Throttle body gasket
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OBD2 scanner
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Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Throttle body gasket
Check Price on Amazon
OBD2 scanner
Check Price on Amazon
Digital multimeter
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional
Call a professional mechanic if voltage readings are incorrect after cleaning, if you're not comfortable working with electrical systems, or if the error returns after following these steps. A faulty throttle body assembly requires precise calibration that needs professional diagnostic equipment.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with P2138 error code?
You should avoid driving with P2138 as it can cause sudden loss of power or unpredictable throttle response, creating unsafe driving conditions. Have it diagnosed immediately.
How much does it cost to fix P2138?
Costs range from $50-150 for cleaning and minor repairs, up to $300-800 if throttle body replacement is needed. Professional diagnosis typically costs $100-150.
What causes P2138 in Chevrolet vehicles?
Common causes include dirty throttle body, corroded electrical connections, damaged wiring harness, or a failing throttle position sensor within the throttle body assembly.
Will P2138 cause my car to not start?
P2138 may prevent starting or cause the engine to start but immediately go into limp mode with severely reduced power for safety reasons.