AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0381 2015 Chevrolet Silverado

P0381 2015 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 2015 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.

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Code Popularity 216

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 2015 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 2015 Chevrolet Silverado - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P0381 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0381 2015 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 2015 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 2015 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 2015 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0381 2015 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does OBDII code P0381 on a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado mean?

- OBDII code P0381 for a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado relates to the Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0381 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Common symptoms of P0381 may include a flashing "Wait to Start" light on the dashboard and difficulty starting the engine.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0381 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Possible causes of P0381 can include a faulty wait to start indicator control circuit, damaged wiring, or a defective control module.

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code P0381 in my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Diagnosing P0381 may involve visually inspecting wiring for damage, testing the control circuit with a multimeter, and checking the control module for proper functioning.

5. Can I still drive my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code P0381?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an active P0381 fault code, as it may lead to starting issues or potential engine damage.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0381 in my 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Repairing P0381 may involve replacing a faulty wait to start indicator control circuit, repairing damaged wiring, or replacing a defective control module.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0381 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado without repairs?

- Resetting the code without addressing the underlying issue may temporarily clear the fault, but it is likely to reappear once the problem persists.

8. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid OBDII code P0381 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Regularly inspecting wiring for damage, ensuring proper connections, and addressing any warning signs promptly can help prevent issues leading to P0381.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0381 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- Depending on their skill level, a DIY enthusiast may be able to diagnose and repair P0381, but complex electrical issues may require professional intervention.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0381 in a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado?

- The repair time for P0381 can vary based on the exact cause and complexity of the issue, but it may range from a few hours to a full day at a repair shop.