AutoCodes – GMC – P0381 2014 GMC Sierra

P0381 2014 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 2014 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.

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Code Popularity 218

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
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Code P0381 2014 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 2014 GMC Sierra - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P0381 2014 GMC Sierra Code - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0381 2014 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 2014 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 2014 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 2014 GMC Sierra code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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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 GMC Sierra Code

Q: What does the OBDII code P0381 mean on a 2014 GMC Sierra?

1. A: The P0381 code indicates an issue with the Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit, which is part of the diesel engine's glow plug system. 2.

Q: What are the symptoms of the P0381 code on a 2014 GMC Sierra?

A: Symptoms include the Wait To Start light not illuminating, hard engine starts in cold weather, and potential illumination of the check engine light. 3.

Q: What causes the P0381 code on a 2014 GMC Sierra?

A: Common causes include a faulty glow plug control module, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or a malfunctioning Wait To Start indicator bulb. 4.

Q: Can I drive my 2014 GMC Sierra with the P0381 code?

A: While the vehicle may still be drivable, it may struggle to start in cold weather, and prolonged issues could lead to additional engine wear or damage. 5.

Q: How do I diagnose the P0381 code on a 2014 GMC Sierra?

A: Diagnosis involves checking the Wait To Start indicator bulb, inspecting the wiring and connectors in the circuit, and testing the glow plug control module for faults. 6.

Q: How is the P0381 code repaired on a 2014 GMC Sierra?

A: Repairs typically include replacing a faulty glow plug control module, fixing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing the Wait To Start indicator bulb. 7.

Q: What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P0381 code on a 2014 GMC Sierra?

A: You'll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for checking electrical connections, and possibly a wiring diagram for the circuit. 8.

Q: Can a bad battery cause the P0381 code on a 2014 GMC Sierra?

A: A weak or failing battery can contribute to issues with the glow plug system, but it is not a direct cause of the P0381 code. 9.

Q: How much does it cost to fix the P0381 code on a 2014 GMC Sierra?

A: Repair costs vary depending on the issue, ranging from $50 for a bulb replacement to $300 or more for a new glow plug control module. 10.

Q: Will clearing the P0381 code resolve the issue?

A: Clearing the code with an OBDII scanner will not fix the underlying problem; proper diagnosis and repair are necessary to prevent the code from returning.