Victron Energy Solar Charge Controller: “Err 38”
warning RV solar charge controller error codes
What it means
PV input shutdown. The controller short-circuited its own PV input as a protective measure to stop charging and protect the battery from being overcharged (typically triggered by an over-voltage condition on the battery side).
Most likely causes
- Battery voltage settings do not match the actual battery, causing an overvoltage trip common
- Outdated firmware common
- Internal controller fault less common
Safe checks you can do yourself
- In VictronConnect verify the battery voltage and charge settings match the real battery
- Update the controller firmware via VictronConnect
- Disconnect the panels, then the battery; wait about 3 minutes and reconnect to clear it
How to reset / clear Err 38
- Disconnect PV, then battery
- Wait at least 3 minutes
- Reconnect battery, then PV
When to call a technician
Settings are correct and firmware is current, but Err 38 keeps returning — the unit may be defective.
Applies to
SmartSolar MPPT (all) · BlueSolar MPPT (all)
FAQ
What does Victron Energy Solar Charge Controller code "Err 38" mean?
PV input shutdown. The controller short-circuited its own PV input as a protective measure to stop charging and protect the battery from being overcharged (typically triggered by an over-voltage condition on the battery side).
How do I reset Victron Energy Solar Charge Controller Err 38?
Disconnect PV, then battery Wait at least 3 minutes Reconnect battery, then PV
What is the most common cause of Err 38 on a Victron Energy Solar Charge Controller?
The most likely cause is battery voltage settings do not match the actual battery, causing an overvoltage trip.
Related · Victron Energy solar charge controller
Battery temperature too high. The charge controller has stop… Err 2
Battery voltage too high. The controller stopped charging be… Err 17
Controller overheated despite reduced output current. The in… Err 26
Terminal overheated. The power terminals (PV or battery scre… Err 33
PV over-voltage. The solar input voltage exceeded the contro… Err 43
On the SmartSolar MPPT RS / inverting models, Err 43 is an i…
Sources
- MPPT Solar Charger Error Codes — Err 38, 39 — PV Input shutdown (Victron Energy)
Note: Err 38 and Err 39 share the 'PV Input shutdown' protection mechanism on the official page.
● Last verified 2026-06-29 · compiled from manufacturer documentation. Codes can vary by model year — always cross-check your unit’s manual.