AutoCodes – Ford – B1038 Ford

B1038 Ford Code - Left Front Seat Heater Sensor

Quick Answer

The engine must be running for the heated seat system to operate. Common causes include Faulty Left Front Seat Heater Sensor, Left Front Seat Heater Sensor harness is open or shorted, Left Front Seat Heater Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.

What it means
B1038 Ford indicates Left Front Seat Heater Sensor.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Left Front Seat Heater Sensor, Left Front Seat Heater Sensor harness is open or shorted, Left Front Seat Heater Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
Can I drive?
The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 5,062
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 18, 2024
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Code B1038 Ford Description

The engine must be running for the heated seat system to operate. The driver and passenger heated seat buttons are selected from the touchscreen interface, which initiates the CAN communication to request heated seat operation. Upon receiving the request, the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Module supplies voltage to the appropriate driver and/or passenger seat cushion and backrest heater mats, which are connected in series. Temperature is maintained by the HVAC module using a sensor contained within the cushion heater mat. The HVAC module supplies a reference voltage to the temperature sensor and monitors the return signal from the temperature sensor for controlling current flow to the heater mats. The HVAC module remains on, heating the seat and maintaining temperature until commanded off from the touchscreen (or until the ignition is turned OFF).
OBDII Code B1038 Ford - Left Front Seat Heater Sensor - AutoCodes.com
B1038 Ford Code - Left Front Seat Heater Sensor

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1038 Ford?

  • Faulty Left Front Seat Heater Sensor
  • Left Front Seat Heater Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Left Front Seat Heater Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Module

How to Fix the DTC B1038 Ford?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1038 Ford code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the B1038 Ford code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1038 Ford code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1038 Ford code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B1038 Ford Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1038 for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor in a Ford?

- The common symptoms include the left front seat heater not working or not heating up properly.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code B1038 for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor in a Ford?

- The code B1038 can be triggered by a faulty seat heater sensor, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning control module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code B1038 for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor in my Ford?

- You can diagnose the code by using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific error code. Additionally, inspecting the seat heater sensor and related wiring for any visible damage can help pinpoint the issue.

4. Can I repair the OBDII code B1038 for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor in my Ford on my own?

- Depending on the cause of the issue, you may be able to repair it on your own if you have the necessary tools and expertise. However, if the problem involves complex electrical components, it is recommended to seek professional help.

5. Are there any temporary solutions for dealing with OBDII code B1038 for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor in a Ford?

- One temporary solution is to disconnect the seat heater sensor to prevent any potential electrical hazards until the issue is properly diagnosed and repaired.

6. Will OBDII code B1038 for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor cause any harm if left unrepaired?

- While the code may not directly harm the vehicle, leaving the issue unresolved can lead to discomfort due to a non-functioning seat heater.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1038 for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor in a Ford?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the root cause of the issue and whether you choose to repair it yourself or seek professional help. It is advisable to get quotes from mechanics in your area for an accurate estimate.

8. Can OBDII code B1038 for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor in a Ford be triggered intermittently?

- Yes, the code can sometimes be triggered intermittently, especially if the underlying issue is related to loose connections or wiring.

9. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code B1038 for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor in my Ford?

- It is generally safe to continue driving with this code, but it is recommended to address the issue promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the seat heater.

10. Will resetting the OBDII system clear the B1038 code for the Left Front Seat Heater Sensor in a Ford?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

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