P0380 — Glow Plug/Heater Circuit "A" Malfunction
Category: Powertrain Severity: Medium
Updated:
DTC code P0380 means: Glow Plug/Heater Circuit "A" Malfunction. It falls under the "Powertrain" category, with an estimated severity of Medium. Common causes include one or more burned-out glow plugs, failed glow plug relay or module and damaged glow plug wiring; it's worth confirming the diagnosis before replacing parts.
Possible causes
- One or more burned-out glow plugs
- Failed glow plug relay or module
- Damaged glow plug wiring
- Blown fuse
Symptoms
- Hard cold starts
- White smoke on start-up
- Flashing glow plug light
- Rough cold idle
How to diagnose it step by step
- Check the glow plug fuse.
- Measure each plug.
- Check the relay or module.
- Replace faulty parts (careful not to snap the plugs).
How to fix it
Measure each glow plug's resistance (usually under 2 ohms). Replace the burned-out ones and check the relay or module.
Estimated repair cost
Glow plug: $15–50 each; set installed $150–400. Module: $80–250.
Frequently asked questions
What does DTC code P0380 mean?
Glow Plug/Heater Circuit "A" Malfunction.
Is code P0380 serious?
Severity Medium. Not urgent, but worth diagnosing to avoid bigger damage.
Can I keep driving with code P0380?
Yes; the issue is mainly cold starting.
Related codes
P0381 P0366 P0365 P0356 P0355 P0354 P0353 P0352 P0351 P0345
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