AutoCodes – Isuzu – P0381 Isuzu

P0381 Isuzu Code - Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

The glow plug system is used to assist in providing the heat required to begin combustion during cold engine temperatures. Common causes include Faulty Glow Plug, Glow Plug harness is open or shorted, Glow Plug 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 Isuzu indicates Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Glow Plug, Glow Plug harness is open or shorted, Glow Plug 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.

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Code Popularity 13,234

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 Apr 16, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0381 Isuzu Description

The glow plug system is used to assist in providing the heat required to begin combustion during cold engine temperatures. The glow plugs are heated before and during cranking, as well as initial engine operation. The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the glow plug ON times by monitoring coolant temperature and glow plug voltage. The California Glow Plug system has eight individual glow plug supply circuits between the controller and the glow plugs. If the feedback voltage from the controller to the ECM is not within range, DTC P0380 will set.

OBDII Code P0381 Isuzu - Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — P0381 Isuzu Code - Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0381 Isuzu?

Faulty Glow Plug
Glow Plug harness is open or shorted
Glow Plug circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0381 Isuzu?

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 Isuzu 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 Isuzu code?

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

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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 Isuzu Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0381 in an Isuzu?

- Common symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, poor fuel efficiency, and the glow plug indicator light staying illuminated.

2. What does the OBDII code P0381 in an Isuzu indicate?

- The code P0381 indicates a malfunction in the glow plug/heater indicator circuit.

3. What are some possible causes of OBDII code P0381 in an Isuzu?

- Possible causes include a faulty glow plug relay, damaged wiring or connectors in the glow plug circuit, or a malfunctioning glow plug control module.

4. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code P0381 in my Isuzu?

- Use a multimeter to test the glow plug relay, check for continuity in the wiring, inspect connectors for corrosion, and verify the functionality of the glow plug control module.

5. Can I still drive my Isuzu with OBDII code P0381 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving the vehicle with code P0381 as it can lead to starting issues and potential damage to the engine.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0381 in my Isuzu?

- Repair options include replacing the glow plug relay, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning or replacing connectors, or replacing the glow plug control module as needed.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0381 make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may clear it temporarily, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to return.

8. Can extreme weather conditions affect the glow plug/heater indicator circuit in an Isuzu?

- Yes, extreme cold weather can put additional strain on the glow plug system, potentially leading to issues that trigger OBDII code P0381.

9. Is it possible for a loose connection to cause OBDII code P0381 in an Isuzu?

- Yes, a loose or corroded connection in the glow plug circuit can disrupt the indicator circuit and trigger the P0381 code.

10. How important is it to promptly address OBDII code P0381 in an Isuzu?

- It is crucial to address code P0381 promptly to avoid starting problems, engine damage, and potential safety issues related to poor engine performance.