P0638 on Ford
Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance Bank 1
P0638 on Ford vehicles indicates throttle actuator control range/performance bank 1. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Ford model — most commonly on Fusion. This code means the engine computer detected that the electronic throttle plate (Bank 1) is not opening or closing to the position it commanded. The PCM monitors throttle actuator position against the desired angle and sets this code when they disagree. This can trigger reduced-power 'limp' mode, hesitation, or unexpected changes in engine response, which makes it a safety-relevant fault. Typical repair costs on Ford range from $250 to $550, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0638
- •Dirty or carbon-clogged throttle body
- •Faulty throttle actuator motor
- •Failed throttle position sensor
- •Corroded or loose throttle body connector
- •Wiring faults in the throttle control circuit
- •Mechanical binding of the throttle plate
- •PCM fault
P0638 on Ford by Model
Ford Fusion(1 issue)
- Electronic Throttle Body Failure - Limp Mode and Wrench Light2010-2016
The electronic throttle body suffers internal contamination/wear of the motor contacts, causing intermittent electrical failure rather than simple dirt buildup. The result is a sudden loss of power (limp/failsafe mode) with the amber wrench (powertrain) warning light, rough idle, or stalling, sometimes in traffic. Ford acknowledged the problem with extended-warranty program 13N03 for 2010-2013 models and Customer Satisfaction Program 16B32 for certain 2015-2016 vehicles including Fusion.
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View P0638 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0638 mean on Ford?▼
P0638 stands for "Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance Bank 1." This code means the engine computer detected that the electronic throttle plate (Bank 1) is not opening or closing to the position it commanded. The PCM monitors throttle actuator position against the desired angle and sets this code when they disagree. This can trigger reduced-power 'limp' mode, hesitation, or unexpected changes in engine response, which makes it a safety-relevant fault. On Ford specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0638 on Ford vehicles?▼
Common causes on Ford: Dirty or carbon-clogged throttle body, Faulty throttle actuator motor, Failed throttle position sensor, Corroded or loose throttle body connector, Wiring faults in the throttle control circuit. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0638 on a Ford?▼
Repair costs on Ford range from $250 to $550, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Ford models have P0638 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0638 on 1 Ford model: Fusion.