What is the P0380 fault number? What is the description of the Glow Plug “A” Circuit Malfunction? How do I fix the P0380 fault code What are the symptoms and causes for the P0380 error code?
What is the P0380 Fault code? What does it all mean?
If the powertrain controller module (PCM), detects a voltage signal from the glow-plug “A” heater circuit that is 10% higher than normal, the code P0380 is generated. This code is used to indicate that there is a problem in the glow plug circuit. The description of the code states that circuit A refers only to one part of the control circuit for the glow plug. The vehicle’s manual will provide the information needed to locate the “A” circuit.
Glow plugs are used in diesel engines to raise the temperature of the combustion chambers when it is below the temperature threshold. This allows the mixture of air and fuel to ignite more quickly. The PCM uses a coolant temperature sensor in order to determine when ignition is switched on.
The glow plug control circuit typically consists of: battery and ignition switch, one to five relays, one to three fuses, engine coolant temp sensor, wiring and connectors. Warning and status lights are located on the instrument panel to indicate system operation status. Glow spark plug. A timer or glow plug control module might also be available depending on the application.
The engine coolant temperature sensor is used to inform the PCM when the ignition switch is turned on. In some legacy applications, if the PCM detects that the engine coolant temperature is below a predetermined minimum threshold, it will activate a timer which sends electrical current from the battery through a special relay to the glow plugs. The glow plug will be active at this time if a red status lamp illuminates on the instrument panel.
The P0380 fault code can affect vehicles of all makes and models, including but not limited to Fiat, Renault Dodge, Saab Chevrolet, Ford, Saab Saab, Saab, Saab, Saab, Saab, Saab, Saab, Saab Chevrolet, Dodge, Saab Chevrolet, Ford, Opel Duramax Nissan, GMC Isuzu, and Volkswagen.
What are the Possible Reasons for the P0380 Fault code?
Here are some reasons why P0380 should be set.
- – Defective glow stick
- – A defective glow plug relay
- – If applicable, defective glow plug timer/modul
- Blowing fuse
- – Broken wires to the “A” circuit of the glow plug, loose connectors, or other open or shorted issues
- – A defective ignition switch
- – Defective engine coolant temperature sensor
What are the symptoms for P0380 Fault Code
The following symptoms may be experienced by anyone who has a vehicle that is coded P0380.
- – Illumination and control of the check engine light
- – The glow plug light is on longer than normal or remains on constantly
- – Difficulty starting engine, especially in cold conditions
- – The engine makes strange noises during start-up
- – White smoke from the exhaust
How to Fix the P0380 Fault Code
There are several repairs that can resolve the P0380 fault code.
- Repairing a defective glow plug
- Replacing a faulty glowing plug relay
- – Replacing a defective glow plug timer/modul
- – Replacing blownfuses
- – Repairing damaged wires or loose, rusty connections, open or reduced to the glow plug “A”.
Blown fuses in the glow-plug heater circuit are often associated with code P0380. However, they are usually the result a more severe fault. It is important to replace a blown fuse if it is found. However, it shouldn’t be taken as the sole problem or cause for fault code P0380.
