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Guide To P0381 OBD Error Code Solutions

OBD Code P0381 - Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit Malfunction

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The trouble code P0381 can be defined as Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit Malfunction. The glow plug system which is found in the diesel vehicles would provide heat in order to start the car engine in the cold temperature. The coolant temperature as well as glow plug is monitored by the engine control module which would facilitate the heating of the plugs.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P0381

The glow plugs are operated with a solid-state device which is known as glow plug controller. The temperature as well as the power consumption as both controlled between the engine control module as well as the glow plug controller with a wide range so that it can easily suit the engines preheating requirements.

 

The glow plug module is controlled by the engine control module with a pulse-width modulated control circuit. According to the system voltage and temperature, the glow plug initial ON time would vary. If the temperatures are low, then it would cause longer ON times.

 

What causes this problem with the Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit Malfunction?

 

  • Loose or corroded glow plug circuit connectors
  • The glow plug relay might have some flaws
  • There can be a defective glow plug module or timer
  • Issue of a blown fuse
  • Defaults in the glow plugs
  • A wiring short in the glow plug heater circuit or harness

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix OBD Code P0381

  1. Spark Plug - There can be some issues with the Spark Plug due to which you may see P0381 code appearing over and over again. Visit us to buy best quality ac delco spark plugs online.
  2. Engine Control Module - Are you facing some faults in your Engine Control Module? Don’t worry and get them replaced or else P0381 code can turn up.
  3. Engine Parts - Common cause behind this P0381 error code can be some fault in Engine Parts. So, it will be a good decision to buy new diesel engine parts them now.
  4. Battery Cable Replacement Terminal - Engine Control Module is perfectly fine but still but having that trouble code P0381 flashing? In such a situation your Battery Cable Replacement Terminal might be faulty. Why don’t you think of getting that replaced?
  5. Fuel Delivery System Parts - The P0381 code can also arise due to some issues in Fuel System Parts. So, it is advised to replace them as soon as possible.
  6. Glow Plug - P0381 code does not really end up spoiling your Spark Plug, but it might also accompany few Glow Plug issues. We have best glow plug harness with us.

Symptoms Of OBD Error Code P0381

There could be countless symptoms which that would accompany with this fault code. Willing to know some common symptoms of OBD Trouble Code P0381? Your wish is our demand. Have a look at them below:

 

Common Symptoms

 

  • Illumination in the check engine light
  • Failure to start
  • There can be a glow plug indicator lamp which stays on or remains illuminated too long
  • A lot of white exhaust smoke upon start-up
  • There can be excessive noise
  • The malfunction indicator lamp can turn ON

How To Correct P0381 Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit Malfunction

Looking out for some ways with the help of which you can correct this fault code? Then you have arrived at the correct place. We are here to help you out, so you must check out the steps mentioned below as follows:

 

  • Replace the disconnected, corroded, shorted, or damaged wiring or connectors
  • Replacing faulty glow plug relay
  • If there are some flaws in the glow plug timer or module then it should be replaced properly
  • Defective glow plug should be restored
  • Replace the fuse

Don’t get tensed if you are still facing any of these issues as we care for our customers and that’s why we offer a good range of malfunction indicator light, diesel glow plugs, glow plug light and a lot more. We are sure that now all your issues would be resolved.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P0381

It is essential to diagnose this fault code. Here are some steps which a mechanic should follow for diagnosing the problem that triggered a P0381 code to be stored:

 

  • An OBD-II scanner should be used to obtain stored codes and record freeze frame data
  • The codes will be cleared from the vehicle and should be retested properly to see if they reappear
  • The mechanic will perform a visual inspection of the components, including wiring and connectors, to check for corrosion or loose connections
  • An ohmmeter may be used to test individual glow plug connectors to ensure that voltage and ground signals are present
  • The fuses should be tested to see if they blow when the glow plug heater is activated
  • A technician may test the voltage and resistance of the glow plug relay, timer, or module to be sure they match the manufacturer’s specifications

 

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P0381 Code

 

  • A common mistake can be made by people of replacing the timer or relay, when the actual issues was in connectors, wiring, and glow plugs
  • This would waste a lot of time as well as money, so that’s it is advised to be extremely careful

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P0381

P0380 - Glow Plug/Heater Circuit "A"

P0382 - Glow Plug/Heater Circuit "B"