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OBD-II Code · Powertrain

P0381

Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit

medium severitySafe to drive$200-$800

Glow plug indicator circuit fault on diesel engines.

Common symptoms

  • CEL
  • Glow plug indicator lamp issue
  • Hard cold starts

Likely causes

  • Failed glow plug control module
  • Wiring
  • Failed glow plug(s)

Where to start

  1. Try the cheapest cause first. Start by checking: failed glow plug control module.
  2. Cost & scope. $200-$800
  3. If the code returns after the fix: escalate to a shop or scanner with live-data and freeze-frame. A code that re-sets means the underlying fault is still there.

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