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B1638 Toyota 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 Toyota 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 8,911
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 10, 2022
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Code B1638 Toyota 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 Toyota - Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete - AutoCodes.com
B1638 Toyota Code - Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete
What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1638 Toyota?

  • 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 Toyota?

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 Toyota 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 Toyota code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

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

Information for Specific Toyota Models

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 Toyota Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B1638 Toyota?

The common symptoms of OBDII code B1638 Toyota, titled Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete, include the airbag warning light staying illuminated on the dashboard and a potential malfunction of the left rear airbag system.

2. What can cause the OBDII code B1638 Toyota to trigger?

The OBDII code B1638 Toyota, indicating Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete, can be triggered by issues such as a faulty rear airbag sensor assembly, wiring problems, or a communication error between the sensor and the airbag control module.

3. How serious is the OBDII code B1638 Toyota?

The OBDII code B1638 Toyota related to Rear Airbag Sensor Assembly Left Initialization Incomplete is a serious issue as it pertains to the proper functioning of the left rear airbag system, which is crucial for occupant safety in the event of a collision.

4. What should I do if the OBDII code B1638 Toyota is triggered?

If the OBDII code B1638 Toyota is triggered, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose the root cause of the issue and perform any necessary repairs to ensure the proper operation of the left rear airbag system.

5. Can I still drive my vehicle with the OBDII code B1638 Toyota active?

It is not advisable to drive the vehicle with the OBDII code B1638 Toyota active, as it indicates a potential problem with the left rear airbag system, which could compromise occupant safety in the event of a collision.

6. How can the OBDII code B1638 Toyota be diagnosed?

Diagnosing the OBDII code B1638 Toyota involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the code, then conducting a thorough inspection of the rear airbag sensor assembly, wiring, and connections to identify the source of the initialization incomplete issue.

7. What are some repair tips for addressing the OBDII code B1638 Toyota?

Repair tips for addressing the OBDII code B1638 Toyota may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring, ensuring proper connections, resetting the airbag system, and replacing the rear airbag sensor assembly if necessary.

8. Can resetting the airbag system resolve the OBDII code B1638 Toyota?

In some cases, resetting the airbag system after addressing the underlying issue causing the OBDII code B1638 Toyota may clear the code and resolve the initialization incomplete problem with the rear airbag sensor assembly.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code B1638 Toyota?

The cost to repair the OBDII code B1638 Toyota can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, parts needed for replacement, labor costs, and whether any additional repairs are required. It is recommended to obtain estimates from reputable mechanics.

10. Are there any safety concerns associated with the OBDII code B1638 Toyota?

Yes, there are safety concerns associated with the OBDII code B1638 Toyota, as it indicates a potential problem with the left rear airbag system that could affect its deployment and effectiveness in a collision. Prompt diagnosis and repair are essential for occupant safety.

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