OBD2 Car ScannerWhat does C1438 mean?
C1438 stands for Accelerometer Rear Circuit Short To Battery. A chassis module has found a fault in a system like ABS, traction or stability control, steering or suspension.
Chassis codes cover the ABS, traction control, steering and suspension. When the car's computer sees a reading outside its normal range, it stores this code and may turn on a warning light on the dashboard.
Common causes
- Faulty or dirty wheel speed sensor
- Damaged sensor wiring
- Low brake fluid
- Faulty ABS pump or module
What to do
- Read all stored and pending codes with a scanner. Several codes together often point to one cause.
- Note the freeze frame data (speed, temperature, load) recorded when the code was set.
- Inspect the wiring and connectors of the part named in the code for damage, corrosion or looseness.
- Fix the most likely and cheapest cause first, then clear the code and drive to see if it comes back.
Read this code from your own car
Plug in a cheap ELM327 adapter and the app shows every fault code, what it means and how to fix it.
Frequently asked questions
What does C1438 mean?
C1438 means “Accelerometer Rear Circuit Short To Battery”. It belongs to the chassis system group: A chassis module has found a fault in a system like ABS, traction or stability control, steering or suspension.
Is it safe to drive with C1438?
Avoid driving long distances. This kind of fault can cause damage or affect safety, so get it checked as soon as possible.
How do I clear C1438?
Fix the cause, then clear the code with an OBD2 scanner or app. If the fault is still there, the code will come back.
Related codes
- C1433Damper LR Circuit Failure
- C1435Accelerometer Rear Circuit Failure
- C1436Accelerometer Rear Circuit Signal Is Not Sensed
- C1437Accelerometer Rear Circuit Short To Ground
- C1439Vehicle Acceleration EEC-IV Circuit Failure
- C1440Pressure Transducer Main / Primary signal Faulted
- C1441Steering Phase A Circuit Signal Is Not Sensed
- C1442Steering Phase B Circuit Signal Is Not Sensed
Code meanings can vary by manufacturer. This page is general guidance, not a repair manual. Always confirm the cause before replacing parts.