AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P1B38 Chevrolet

P1B38 Chevrolet Code - Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Balance Processor 5 Performance

Quick Answer

The hybrid battery pack contains a total of 32 cell groups in the hybrid/EV battery pack assembly. Common causes include Faulty Battery Energy Control Module, Battery Energy Control Module harness is open or shorted, Battery Energy Control Module 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: P1B38 Chevrolet indicates Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Balance Processor 5 Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Battery Energy Control Module, Battery Energy Control Module harness is open or shorted, Battery Energy Control Module 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 908

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 Mar 12, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1B38 Chevrolet Description

The hybrid battery pack contains a total of 32 cell groups in the hybrid/EV battery pack assembly. These cell groups are electrically connected in series. Each individual cell group is rated at 3.7 V, for a nominal system voltage of 118 V DC. The battery cells are grouped together into two sections, each with 16 cell groups.
The battery energy control module monitors the voltage of the 32 battery cell groups. A voltage sense circuit is attached to each individual cell group. Each of these circuits terminate at a connector located on the top surface of the battery section. A serviceable auxiliary battery wiring harness connectors the voltage sense circuits to the battery energy control module, located directly above the hybrid battery pack.
To ensure proper battery function and lengthen battery life, the battery energy control module balances the voltage of the cells so that each cells maintains the same voltage level. The battery energy control module uses internal voltage gates to transfer voltage from cells with a higher voltage level to those cells with a lower voltage level. To maintain a similar state of charge on the cell groups, the starter/generator control module monitors the cell voltages and determines which cells need energy removed in order to maintain the cells at a similar state of charge. A resistor wired in parallel with the cell and a transistor switch in series with the resistor internal to the battery energy control module. The starter/generator control module sends a command to the battery energy control module to begin cell balancing.

OBDII Code P1B38 Chevrolet - Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Balance Processor 5 Performance - AutoCodes.com — P1B38 Chevrolet Code - Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Balance Processor 5 Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1B38 Chevrolet?

Faulty Battery Energy Control Module
Battery Energy Control Module harness is open or shorted
Battery Energy Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1B38 Chevrolet?

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 P1B38 Chevrolet 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.

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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 P1B38 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet related to the Battery Energy Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Balance Processor 5 Performance?

- Common symptoms include reduced hybrid system performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential issues with battery charging and discharging.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet?

- The code P1B38 typically indicates a fault within the Battery Energy Control Module, such as a malfunctioning hybrid battery voltage balance processor or related components.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet?

- Proper diagnosis requires specialized diagnostic equipment that can read hybrid system data and pinpoint the exact source of the performance issue within the Battery Energy Control Module.

4. What are some repair tips for addressing OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet?

- Repairing this code often involves inspecting and potentially replacing the Battery Energy Control Module or the specific component causing the voltage balance processor performance issue.

5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P1B38 present in a Chevrolet?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with this code present, as it can lead to further hybrid system complications and potentially cause damage to the vehicle's components.

6. Can OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet be reset without addressing the underlying issue?

- While the code can be cleared temporarily, it is crucial to address the underlying cause to prevent the issue from reoccurring and potentially causing more severe problems in the hybrid system.

7. Is it possible to repair OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet without professional help?

- Due to the complexity of the hybrid system and specialized equipment needed for diagnosis, it is recommended to seek professional assistance for repairing OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the extent of the issue and the specific components that need to be repaired or replaced. It is advisable to consult a professional for an accurate estimate.

9. Can a faulty hybrid battery cause OBDII code P1B38 to appear in a Chevrolet?

- Yes, a malfunctioning hybrid battery or issues with the battery energy control module can contribute to the triggering of OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet.

10. Are there any preventive maintenance measures to avoid OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet?

- Regular maintenance of the hybrid system, including monitoring battery health and addressing any performance issues promptly, can help prevent the occurrence of OBDII code P1B38 in a Chevrolet.