Fault code lookup

ChassisC1638

Caution

Severity: Caution - get it checked when you can

Wheel state suppression electronic stability control (ESC) function - signal calculation failed

9 brands affected · Description from DFFS data.

Key terms: ABS: anti-lock braking, which stops the wheels locking · Stability control: helps stop the car skidding · Wheel speed sensor: measures how fast each wheel turns

1What it means in plain English

A chassis system has a fault, usually ABS, traction control or stability control, but some makes use this range for airbags, electric power steering or park brakes.

2Common causes

  1. Faulty wheel speed sensor
  2. Damaged sensor ring or wiring
  3. Faulty ABS module
  4. Low brake fluid
  5. Wheel bearing damage

3Can I drive?

Caution · drive with care

If the code names an airbag or SRS system, the airbag may not deploy in a crash: have it diagnosed promptly. If it names electric power steering, the assist may fail and the steering can become heavy: stop safely if that happens. If it names the brakes or park brake, have it checked before driving when braking feels abnormal. Otherwise ABS and stability control may be disabled: drive carefully, especially in wet conditions, and have it checked soon.

This page gives general information. It is not professional advice. For a definite diagnosis and a repair quote, ask a qualified mechanic to inspect the car.

4Brand data 9

BrandCodeDescriptionSystem
DaewooC1638No description available Chassis
DFFSC1638Wheel state suppression electronic stability control (ESC) function - signal calculation failed BrandChassis
GMC1638No description available Chassis
HoldenC1638No description available Chassis
HyundaiC1638No description available Chassis
OpelC1638No description available Chassis
PeugeotC1638No description available Chassis
SaabC1638No description available Chassis
SuzukiC1638RBS OFF Switch Circuit BrandChassis

Legend: SAE is the generic J2012 description; Brand is text taken from that manufacturer’s data. Manufacturer rows keep the wording and language of the source data, and non-English text is tagged so screen readers pronounce it correctly.

5Extended variant codes 1

These 7-character codes are manufacturer-specific variants of C1638 and may be reported by some scan tools.

BrandCodeDescriptionSystem
HyundaiC163808If SCC CAN message is not received, HECU sets DTC BrandChassis

6Related codes

Browse Cxxx codes or C163xx codes.

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