BMS-F038
BMS_f038_SW_Neg_Contactor
Also written as BMS_F038 / BMS F038 / BMS_f038_SW_Neg_Contactor / bms_f038_sw_neg_contactor
Why does the exact Tesla alert ID matter?
Record the exact alert ID, including underscores, suffixes, and companion alerts. Tesla alerts that look similar can point to different modules, timestamps, and service procedures.
What does BMS-F038 mean?
Tesla fault code in the Battery Management System (BMS) module. During the first two seconds of the contactors attempting to close, an issue with the negative contactor was detected. If this alert is present, the contactors may be heard attempting to close but remain open as the issue is detected. The speed of the attempt to close and the re-opening may be too quick to distinguish between the two clicks.
Original Description
During the first two seconds of the contactors attempting to close, an issue with the negative contactor was detected. If this alert is present, the contactors may be heard attempting to close but remain open as the issue is detected. The speed of the attempt to close and the re-opening may be too quick to distinguish between the two clicks.
Affected Tesla Models
What You May Notice
- Vehicle will not start — rapid click then nothing
- Tesla app shows vehicle is offline or unreachable
- 12V battery appears healthy but HV system will not engage
How to Diagnose and Resolve
- 1 Reboot: hold brake + scroll wheels for 10 seconds
- 2 Check 12V battery — replace if below 12V
- 3 If vehicle still will not start, do not try repeatedly
- 4 Arrange flatbed tow to Tesla Service Center
- 5 Negative contactor will be tested and replaced if faulty
Severity Notes
BMS-F038 is classified as a Fault, indicating a critical issue in the Battery Management System system. Do not continue driving and contact Tesla Service immediately.