P0380 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

<<See All OBD Codes

The P0380 fault code means that there is some issue in the glow plug heater circuit A. It is a standard trouble code suggesting that there is problem with the glow plug heater circuit.

If the powertrain control module would detect a variation in the voltage from the “A” area of the glow plug heater circuit which is more than 10 percent variation from the expected output, then the error code P0380 would be detected. This code is related with a lot of other glow plug fault codes.

The trouble code P0380 can be defined as Glow Plug/Heater Circuit “A” Malfunction.

This diagnostic fault code is a generic powertrain code, which means that it would apply to the OBD-II equipped vehicles. The specific repair steps can vary as it depends upon the vehicle make and model.

What causes this problem with the Glow Plug/Heater Circuit “A” Malfunction?

• The glow plug or relay might be faulty
• Defective wiring and electrical connectors like corroded connectors or open wiring
• The fuse might be opened
• Defects in the glow plug timer
• There can be blown fuse in the circuit
• Flaws in the glow plug module

1. Engine Control Module - There can be some issues with the Engine Control Module due to which you may see P0380 code appearing over and over again. Visit us to buy best quality Engine Control Module online.
2. Glow Plug - A lot of issues can arise do to defective Glow Plug. Did you just see P0380 code flashing? Now you know the reason why it is appearing. Get your glow plug harness inspected and replaced on time.
3. Battery Cable Replacement Terminal - Faulty Battery Cable Replacement Terminal can be the reason why P0380 code is flashing. Visit us to purchase top notch Battery Cable Replacement Terminal online.
4. Spark Plug - It is an important auto part which needs full care. Faulty ac delco spark plugs can be a reason behind the flashing up of P0380 code.
5. Engine Parts - OBD Code P0380 can appear because of faulty diesel engine parts. Purchase top notch engine parts from us online at economical prices.
6. Fuel Delivery System Parts - There can be some issues with the Fuel System Parts due to which you may see P0380 code appearing over and over again. Visit us to buy best quality Fuel System Parts online.

Our main motive is to achieve customer satisfaction as for us our customers are everything and that’s why we will help you to diagnose P0380 code by mentioning some major symptoms below:

Common Symptoms

• Glow plug / wait to start indicator might stay illuminated longer than normal
• Malfunction indicator lamp can start appearing
• There can be hard to start condition of the car engine

If you wish to correct this fault code, then you have to follow certain steps. Correcting a problem needs your careful attention. Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P0380:

• The damaged glow plug or glow plug relay should be replaced
• You can always replace the defective heater circuit wires, connectors, and fuses
• Carefully repair or replace glow plug timer or module

However, if you face any issue then we have stocked a wide range of best priced malfunction indicator light, diesel glow plugs, glow plug light and more to help you out in fixing your car.

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

• The first thing which you must do is to check for known issues such as TSBs (technical service bulletins) that pertain to the P0380 fault code
• Then you should check associated fuses and you can always replace then if found blown
• Test glow plug relay if possible. Visually inspect the glow plugs, wiring, and connectors for corrosion, wiring pins bent/loose, loose screws/nuts on wiring connections, burnt appearance. Repair as necessary
• After that you must inspect the harness connectors for resistance using a digital volt ohm meter. Compare to manufacturer specifications
• Disconnect glow plug wires, measure resistance using DVOM, compare to spec
• Use a DVOM to verify that the glow plug wiring connector is getting power and ground
• If replacing a glow plug, be sure to start it in the threads by hand first
• If you want to test the glow plug, then you can always remove them, apply 12V to the terminal and ground the body for a 2-3 seconds. If it glows red hot it’s good, if it’s a dull red or not red, then it means that it has some issue
• If you have access to an advanced scan tool, there may be functions you could use on it that pertain to the glow plug wiring circuit.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0380 Code

• The most common mistake when diagnosing the P0380 code comes from a failure to properly follow the OBD-II trouble code diagnosis protocol
• The mechanics should keep this thing in mind that they should follow the proper protocol in order, which includes addressing numerous trouble codes in the order in which they appear
• Most of the time people make a mistake of replacing the glow plug or relay, when the actual issues were in wires, connectors, or fuses