AutoCodes – GMC – P0381 2016 GMC Sierra

P0381 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit

Quick Answer

Ignition voltage is supplied directly to the Wait To Start indicator. Common causes include Faulty Instrument Cluster, Instrument Cluster harness is open or shorted, Instrument Cluster circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0381 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Instrument Cluster, Instrument Cluster harness is open or shorted, Instrument Cluster circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 233

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 17, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0381 2016 GMC Sierra Description

Ignition voltage is supplied directly to the Wait To Start indicator. The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the lamp by grounding the control circuit via an internal switch called a driver. The primary function of the driver is to supply the ground for the component being controlled. Each driver has a fault line which is monitored by the ECM. When the ECM is commanding a component ON, the voltage of the control circuit should be low, near zero volts. When the ECM is commanding the control circuit to a component OFF, the voltage potential of the circuit should be high, near battery voltage. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects an open circuit on the Wait To Start Indicator Control circuit for greater than 0.2 s.

OBDII Code P0381 2016 GMC Sierra - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P0381 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0381 2016 GMC Sierra?

Faulty Instrument Cluster
Instrument Cluster harness is open or shorted
Instrument Cluster circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0381 2016 GMC Sierra?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0381 2016 GMC Sierra code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0381 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0381 2016 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0381 2016 GMC Sierra code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0381 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra include the "Wait To Start" indicator not illuminating or staying on for an extended period when starting the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P0381 for a 2016 GMC Sierra indicate?

OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra relates to the Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit, signaling an issue with the circuit responsible for controlling the glow plug indicator light.

3. What are some possible causes of OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes of OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra include a faulty glow plug relay, damaged wiring in the indicator circuit, or a malfunctioning glow plug control module.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0381 in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosing OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra involves checking the glow plug relay, inspecting the wiring for any damage, and testing the glow plug control module for proper functionality using a multimeter.

5. Can I still drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P0381 active?

It is not recommended to drive your 2016 GMC Sierra with OBDII code P0381 active, as it can lead to starting issues and potential engine damage if left unresolved.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0381 in my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairing OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra may involve replacing the glow plug relay, repairing any damaged wiring in the indicator circuit, or replacing the glow plug control module as needed.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0381 in my 2016 GMC Sierra solve the issue?

Resetting the OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue causing the code is not addressed, it is likely to reappear upon the next diagnostic scan.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Depending on their skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra by following repair guides and using the right diagnostic equipment.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra at a dealership?

The cost of repairing OBDII code P0381 in a 2016 GMC Sierra at a dealership can vary depending on the specific issue, parts needed, and labor costs, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

10. Is it important to address OBDII code P0381 promptly in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Yes, it is essential to address OBDII code P0381 promptly in a 2016 GMC Sierra to prevent potential starting issues, engine damage, and ensure the vehicle operates safely and efficiently.