AutoCodes – Generic – C1238

C1238 Code - Foreign Object Attached On Tip Of Right Rear Sensor

Quick Answer

The speed sensor detects wheel speed and sends the appropriate signals to the ECU. Common causes include Faulty Right Rear Speed Sensor, Right Rear Speed Sensor rotor, Sensor installation. 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: C1238 indicates Foreign Object Attached On Tip Of Right Rear Sensor.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Right Rear Speed Sensor, Right Rear Speed Sensor rotor, Sensor installation.
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 17,113

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 29, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C1238 Description

The speed sensor detects wheel speed and sends the appropriate signals to the ECU. These signals are used to control the ABS control system. The front and rear rotors have 48 serrations each.
When the rotors rotate, the magnetic field emitted by the permanent magnet in the speed sensor generates AC voltage. Since the frequency of this AC voltage changes in direct proportion to the speed of the rotor, the frequency is used by the ECU to detect the speed of each wheel.

OBDII Code C1238 - Foreign Object Attached On Tip Of Right Rear Sensor - AutoCodes.com — C1238 Code - Foreign Object Attached On Tip Of Right Rear Sensor

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1238?

Faulty Right Rear Speed Sensor
Right Rear Speed Sensor rotor
Sensor installation
Brake actuator (skid control ECU)

How to Fix the DTC C1238?

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 C1238 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 C1238 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C1238 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C1238 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

C1238 Lexus — Foreign Object Attached on Tip of Right Rear Sensor
C1238 Scion — Foreign Object Attached on Tip of Right Rear Sensor
C1238 Toyota — Foreign Object Attached on Tip of Right Rear Sensor

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 C1238 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code C1238?

- Common symptoms include the ABS light being illuminated on the dashboard, erratic behavior in the vehicle's braking system, and possible traction control issues.

2. What does OBDII code C1238 indicate?

- OBDII code C1238 indicates that there is a foreign object attached to the tip of the right rear sensor in the vehicle's ABS system.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C1238?

- The possible causes of OBDII code C1238 include debris or foreign objects interfering with the right rear sensor, damaged sensor wiring, or a faulty sensor.

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code C1238?

- Diagnosing OBDII code C1238 involves visually inspecting the right rear sensor for any foreign objects, checking the sensor wiring for damage, and using a diagnostic tool to read the ABS system for fault codes.

5. Can OBDII code C1238 be fixed at home?

- Depending on the cause, OBDII code C1238 may be fixable at home by clearing any foreign objects from the sensor tip or repairing damaged wiring. However, if the sensor itself is faulty, professional repair may be necessary.

6. Are there any safety concerns associated with OBDII code C1238?

- Yes, there are safety concerns associated with OBDII code C1238 as it can affect the proper functioning of the vehicle's ABS system, which is crucial for maintaining braking performance and traction control.

7. How urgent is it to address OBDII code C1238?

- It is important to address OBDII code C1238 promptly to ensure the proper operation of the ABS system and maintain safe driving conditions. Ignoring the code can lead to potential braking and traction control issues.

8. Can OBDII code C1238 cause other problems in the vehicle?

- Yes, if left unresolved, OBDII code C1238 can potentially lead to further damage to the ABS system components and compromise the overall safety and performance of the vehicle.

9. What repair steps are typically involved in fixing OBDII code C1238?

- Repair steps for OBDII code C1238 may include clearing any foreign objects from the sensor tip, repairing or replacing damaged sensor wiring, or replacing the sensor itself if it is faulty.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code C1238 from occurring in the future?

- To prevent OBDII code C1238 from occurring in the future, regularly inspect the sensors and wiring in the ABS system for any signs of damage or foreign objects, and address any issues promptly to maintain proper functionality.