AutoCodesChevrolet – P0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

P0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 762
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 17, 2022
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Code P0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

  • 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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Code

What does the OBDII code P0381 mean for a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Code P0381 indicates an issue with the Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit, which is related to the diesel engine's glow plug system.

What are the common symptoms of code P0381 in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include the Wait To Start light not illuminating, difficulty starting the vehicle, or reduced engine performance in cold weather.

What causes the P0381 code in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Possible causes include a faulty glow plug control module, damaged wiring, corroded connectors, or a malfunctioning Wait To Start indicator bulb.

Can I drive my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado with the P0381 code?

While the vehicle might still run, driving with this code can lead to starting problems, especially in cold weather, and should be addressed promptly.

How do I diagnose the P0381 code in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Inspect the Wait To Start indicator bulb, check the glow plug control module for faults, and examine the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion.

What tools are needed to diagnose code P0381?

You'll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for testing electrical components, and possibly wiring diagrams for the Wait To Start circuit.

How can I fix the P0381 code on my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may involve replacing the Wait To Start indicator bulb, repairing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or replacing the glow plug control module.

Does the P0381 code affect engine performance?

This code primarily impacts cold starts, as the glow plug system is crucial for warming the engine in lower temperatures.

How much does it cost to repair the P0381 code on a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair costs can vary, but replacing a glow plug control module typically costs $150–$300, while fixing wiring or connectors may be less expensive.

Can a bad battery cause the P0381 code in a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado?

Although unlikely, a weak or failing battery can affect the glow plug system’s operation, potentially contributing to this code in some cases.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0381 2014 Chevrolet Silverado OBDII Code

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