AutoCodesGeneric – C1839

C1839 Code - Charging Leakage Fault

Quick Answer

The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module monitors the Charging System. Common causes include Faulty Alternator, Alternator harness is open or shorted, Alternator 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
C1839 indicates Charging Leakage Fault.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Alternator, Alternator harness is open or shorted, Alternator 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 3,874
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 30, 2020
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Code C1839 Description

The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module monitors the Charging System. The ABS Module sets the OBDII code when the Charging System is not to factory specifications.
OBDII Code C1839 - Charging Leakage Fault - AutoCodes.com
C1839 Code - Charging Leakage Fault

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1839?

  • Faulty Alternator
  • Alternator harness is open or shorted
  • Alternator circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C1839?

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 C1839 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 C1839 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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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 C1839 Code

1. What does OBDII code C1839 mean?

C1839 indicates a Charging Leakage Fault, typically related to issues in the charging system of an electric or hybrid vehicle, such as a fault in insulation or wiring.

2. What are the common symptoms of code C1839?

Symptoms include warning lights on the dashboard, reduced charging efficiency, inability to charge the vehicle, or unusual behavior during charging.

3. What causes the C1839 Charging Leakage Fault?

Common causes include damaged or corroded charging cables, faulty insulation in the charging system, water ingress, or a malfunctioning charging port.

4. Can I drive my vehicle with the C1839 code?

Driving may still be possible, but it’s not recommended as the issue could worsen or pose safety risks, especially if the fault is related to electrical shorts.

5. How do I diagnose a C1839 code?

Diagnosis involves inspecting the charging cables, connectors, and insulation for damage, using diagnostic tools to check for electrical leaks, and testing the charging system components for faults.

6. What repairs are needed to fix code C1839?

Repairs may include replacing damaged charging cables, repairing or replacing insulation, fixing or replacing the vehicle’s charging port, or addressing water intrusion.

7. Can a faulty charging station cause the C1839 code?

Yes, a damaged or improperly grounded charging station can trigger this code by causing electrical leakage or improper voltage delivery to the vehicle.

8. How much does it cost to fix a C1839 Charging Leakage Fault?

Repair costs vary depending on the issue but can range from $100 for minor fixes like cable replacement to over $1,000 for major component repairs.

9. How can I prevent the C1839 code from recurring?

Regularly inspect charging cables and connectors for damage, ensure the charging station is in good condition, and avoid exposing the vehicle’s charging port to water or debris.

10. Can a software update resolve code C1839?

In some cases, if the issue is due to a software glitch, a manufacturer-released update may resolve the code. However, physical components should be inspected first.

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