AutoCodes – Chevrolet – U1838 Chevrolet

U1838 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication With Battery Charger Control Module On High Voltage Energy Management CAN Bus

Quick Answer

The serial data circuit is the means by which the devices in the vehicle communicate with each other. Common causes include Faulty Battery Charger Control Module, Battery Charger Control Module harness is open or shorted, Battery Charger 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: U1838 Chevrolet indicates Lost Communication With Battery Charger Control Module On High Voltage Energy Management CAN Bus.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Battery Charger Control Module, Battery Charger Control Module harness is open or shorted, Battery Charger 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 1,047

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 Jun 07, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code U1838 Chevrolet Description

The serial data circuit is the means by which the devices in the vehicle communicate with each other. Once the scan tool is connected to the serial data circuit through the Data Link Connector (DLC), the scan tool can be used to monitor each device for diagnostic purposes and to check for Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). When the vehicle is ON, each device communicating on the serial data circuit sends a state of health message to ensure that the device is operating properly. When a device stops communicating on the serial data circuit, for example, if the device loses power or ground, the state of health message it normally sends on the serial data circuit disappears. Other devices on the serial data circuit, which expect to receive that state of the health message, detect its absence; those devices in turn set a DTC associated with the loss of the state of health of the non-communicating device. A loss of serial data communications DTC does not represent a failure of the devices that contain the stored DTC. The DTC will set when a supervised periodic message that includes the transmitter device availability has not been received.

OBDII Code U1838 Chevrolet - Lost Communication With Battery Charger Control Module On High Voltage Energy Management CAN Bus - AutoCodes.com — U1838 Chevrolet Code - Lost Communication With Battery Charger Control Module On High Voltage Energy Management CAN Bus

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1838 Chevrolet?

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

How to Fix the DTC U1838 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 U1838 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 U1838 Chevrolet Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code U1838 in a Chevrolet related to lost communication with the battery charger control module on the high voltage energy management CAN bus?

- Common symptoms include loss of power steering, regenerative braking, and other high-voltage system functions.

2. What are possible causes of the U1838 OBDII trouble code in a Chevrolet?

- Possible causes include a faulty battery charger control module, damaged wiring harness, loose connections, or a malfunctioning high voltage energy management CAN bus.

3. How can I diagnose the U1838 code in my Chevrolet?

- Diagnose the U1838 code by checking for loose or damaged wiring, ensuring proper connections, and using a diagnostic scanner to communicate with the battery charger control module.

4. What are the repair options for resolving the U1838 code in a Chevrolet?

- Repair options include fixing or replacing the battery charger control module, repairing damaged wiring, addressing loose connections, and resetting the high voltage energy management CAN bus.

5. Can I drive my Chevrolet with the U1838 trouble code?

- It is not recommended to drive your Chevrolet with the U1838 code as it may lead to a loss of critical high-voltage system functions, potentially affecting the vehicle's performance and safety.

6. How important is it to address the U1838 code promptly?

- It is important to address the U1838 code promptly to ensure the proper functioning of high-voltage systems in your Chevrolet and prevent potential safety hazards or further damage to the vehicle.

7. Will resetting the trouble codes clear the U1838 code in a Chevrolet?

- Resetting the trouble codes may clear the U1838 code temporarily, but it is essential to diagnose and address the underlying issue to prevent the code from reoccurring.

8. Is it possible to fix the U1838 code in a Chevrolet without professional help?

- Depending on your automotive repair skills and knowledge, you may be able to address the U1838 code by checking wiring connections and the battery charger control module. However, professional help may be necessary for more complex issues.

9. Can extreme weather conditions trigger the U1838 trouble code in a Chevrolet?

- Extreme weather conditions, such as temperature fluctuations or exposure to moisture, can potentially impact the high-voltage systems and contribute to the occurrence of the U1838 code.

10. How much can I expect to spend on repairs for the U1838 code in my Chevrolet?

- Repair costs for the U1838 code in a Chevrolet can vary depending on the underlying issue, parts needed, and labor involved. It is recommended to consult with a professional mechanic for an accurate estimate.