AutoCodes – Scion – B1638 Scion

B1638 Scion Code - Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete

Quick Answer

The Side Collision Sensor Left (LH) circuit (to determine deployment of the Curtain Shield Airbag Assembly LH) is composed of the Center Airbag Sensor Assembly, Side Airbag Sensor LH, and Rear Airbag Sensor LH. Common causes include Faulty Rear Airbag Sensor Left (LH), Rear Airbag Sensor Left harness is open or shorted, Rear Airbag Sensor Left circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: B1638 Scion indicates Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Rear Airbag Sensor Left (LH), Rear Airbag Sensor Left harness is open or shorted, Rear Airbag Sensor Left circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 875

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 10, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B1638 Scion Description

The Side Collision Sensor Left (LH) circuit (to determine deployment of the Curtain Shield Airbag Assembly LH) is composed of the Center Airbag Sensor Assembly, Side Airbag Sensor LH, and Rear Airbag Sensor LH. The Rear Airbag Sensor LH detects impacts to the vehicle and sends signals to the Center Airbag Sensor Assembly to determine if the airbag should be deployed. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored when a malfunction is detected for the rear side collision LH circuit (to determine deployment of the Curtain Shield Airbag Assembly LH).

OBDII Code B1638 Scion - Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete - AutoCodes.com — B1638 Scion Code - Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1638 Scion?

Faulty Rear Airbag Sensor Left (LH)
Rear Airbag Sensor Left harness is open or shorted
Rear Airbag Sensor Left circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Center Airbag Sensor Assembly

How to Fix the DTC B1638 Scion?

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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1638 Scion 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 B1638 Scion code?

Need more information on how to fix the B1638 Scion code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B1638 Scion code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Precautions for SRS “AIR BAG” and “SEAT BELT PRE-TENSIONER” Service

Never probe the electrical connectors on air bag, side air curtain modules or seat belts.
Never disassemble or tamper with safety belt buckle/retractor pretensioners, adaptive load limiting retractors, safety belt inflators, or probe the electrical connectors.
Do not use electrical test equipment to check SRS circuits unless instructed to in this Service Manual.
Before servicing the SRS, turn ignition switch OFF, disconnect both battery cables and wait at least 3 minutes. For approximately 3 minutes after the cables are removed, it is still possible for the air bag and seat belt pre-tensioner to deploy. Therefore, do not work on any SRS connectors or wires until at least 3 minutes have passed.

Failure to follow this instruction may result in the accidental deployment of these modules, which increases the risk of serious personal injury or death.

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 B1638 Scion Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1638 in a Scion related to the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete?

- The common symptoms include the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard and potential issues with the left rear airbag system.

2. What can cause the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete code B1638 in a Scion?

- This code can be triggered by a faulty rear airbag sensor assembly, wiring issues, or problems with the airbag control module.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code B1638 in my Scion for the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete?

- To diagnose the issue, it is recommended to perform a thorough inspection of the rear airbag sensor assembly, check the wiring for any damage, and use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve specific error codes.

4. Can driving with the OBDII code B1638 in a Scion for the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete be dangerous?

- It is not recommended to drive with this code present as it indicates potential issues with the airbag system, which may affect its functionality in case of an accident.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code B1638 in a Scion related to the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete?

- Repair tips include checking and repairing any damaged wiring, replacing the rear airbag sensor assembly if needed, and resetting the airbag control module.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code B1638 in a Scion for the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete without professional help?

- While you can attempt to clear the code using a diagnostic scanner, it is recommended to address the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code B1638 in a Scion related to the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue, but it may involve expenses for parts replacement, labor, and diagnostic services.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code B1638 in a Scion related to the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete?

- While some simple repairs like checking wiring connections can be done by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing complex issues may require professional assistance to ensure safety and proper functionality.

9. Are there any recalls or technical service bulletins related to OBDII code B1638 in a Scion for the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete?

- It's advisable to check with the manufacturer or authorized dealerships for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to this specific OBDII code to determine if there are known issues or remedies available.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code B1638 in a Scion related to the Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete from occurring in the future?

- Regular maintenance checks, prompt attention to airbag warning lights, and addressing any issues with the airbag system promptly can help prevent the reoccurrence of this code.