OBD Guide

B3838

Park Lamp Relay Control Circuit

B3838 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Park Lamp Relay Control Circuit. Common causes: faulty side light relay, open or short circuit in wiring harness. Estimated repair cost: $22–56.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$22–56 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Side lights do not turn on
  • Side lights are unstable
  • The warning light on the dashboard comes on

Causes

  • Faulty side light relay
  • Open or short circuit in wiring harness
  • Problems with the control unit
  • Corrosion of relay contacts or connectors

How to Fix

  1. Check the side light relay for malfunction
  2. Inspect the wiring harness for damage
  3. Check relay contacts and connectors for corrosion
  4. Test the control unit for errors
  5. Replace faulty components

Error B3838 by Vehicle Brand

FAQ

What does the B3838 code mean?

B3838 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Park Lamp Relay Control Circuit

What causes a B3838 error code?

The most common causes of B3838 include: Faulty side light relay; Open or short circuit in wiring harness; Problems with the control unit; Corrosion of relay contacts or connectors.

How do I fix a B3838 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix B3838: Check the side light relay for malfunction. Inspect the wiring harness for damage. Check relay contacts and connectors for corrosion. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with B3838?

Limited driving only, diagnose soon

How much does it cost to fix B3838?

The estimated repair cost for B3838 is $22–56. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat