C0038 on Volkswagen
Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit
C0038 on Volkswagen vehicles indicates left rear wheel speed sensor circuit. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Volkswagen model — most commonly on Jetta. C0038 is a chassis/brake code indicating a fault in the left rear wheel speed sensor circuit (often specifically the sensor's supply/voltage portion of the circuit). The ABS module needs this sensor's signal for anti-lock braking, traction control, and stability control, and sets the code when the circuit is open, shorted, or out of range. The ABS and stability/traction lights usually illuminate and those systems may be disabled, while ordinary braking typically continues to function. Typical repair costs on Volkswagen range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of C0038
- •Failed left rear wheel speed sensor
- •Damaged supply/signal wiring or chafed harness
- •Corroded or loose sensor connector
- •Damaged or contaminated tone/reluctor ring
- •Blown fuse or open in the sensor supply circuit
- •ABS control module fault
C0038 on Volkswagen by Model
Volkswagen Jetta(1 issue)
- ABS Control Module and Low-Speed False ABS Activation2000-2001
Complaint data show a recurring pattern of ABS warning lights, chimes, and unexpected ABS activation at low speeds, sometimes causing longer stopping distances or abrupt brake behavior. The issue is reinforced by a recall covering short circuits within the ABS electronic control unit on certain early Jettas.
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View C0038 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does C0038 mean on Volkswagen?▼
C0038 stands for "Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit." C0038 is a chassis/brake code indicating a fault in the left rear wheel speed sensor circuit (often specifically the sensor's supply/voltage portion of the circuit). The ABS module needs this sensor's signal for anti-lock braking, traction control, and stability control, and sets the code when the circuit is open, shorted, or out of range. The ABS and stability/traction lights usually illuminate and those systems may be disabled, while ordinary braking typically continues to function. On Volkswagen specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes C0038 on Volkswagen vehicles?▼
Common causes on Volkswagen: Failed left rear wheel speed sensor, Damaged supply/signal wiring or chafed harness, Corroded or loose sensor connector, Damaged or contaminated tone/reluctor ring, Blown fuse or open in the sensor supply circuit. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix C0038 on a Volkswagen?▼
Repair costs on Volkswagen range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Volkswagen models have C0038 documented?▼
Au7o has documented C0038 on 1 Volkswagen model: Jetta.