AutoCodes – GMC – P0381 2015 GMC Sierra

P0381 2015 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 2015 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 174

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 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 2015 GMC Sierra - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com — P0381 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0381 2015 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 2015 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 2015 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 2015 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0381 mean on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P0381 indicates an issue with the Wait To Start Indicator Control Circuit, which is used in diesel engines to notify the driver when it's safe to start the engine after the glow plugs have sufficiently heated.

2. What are the symptoms of code P0381 on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include the Wait To Start indicator not illuminating, extended cranking times when starting, or a noticeable lack of power during cold starts.

3. What causes the P0381 code to appear on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Potential causes include a faulty Wait To Start indicator bulb, open or shorted wiring in the control circuit, a damaged PCM (Powertrain Control Module), or issues with the glow plug control module.

4. Can I drive my 2015 GMC Sierra with the P0381 code active?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, ignoring the issue can lead to hard starts, especially in cold weather, and may cause further damage to the glow plug system over time.

5. How do I diagnose the P0381 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Start by checking the Wait To Start indicator bulb, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and using a multimeter to test for continuity in the control circuit. A scan tool can also help monitor the glow plug system.

6. How do I fix the P0381 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty Wait To Start indicator bulb, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing a malfunctioning glow plug control module. In rare cases, the PCM may need reprogramming or replacement.

7. What tools are needed to fix the P0381 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common tools include a multimeter, a scan tool or OBDII code reader, wiring diagrams for the Wait To Start circuit, and basic hand tools for bulb or module replacement.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P0381 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

The cost varies depending on the issue. Replacing a bulb might cost under $50, while wiring repairs or a glow plug control module replacement can cost $100â€“$300. PCM replacement or reprogramming may cost more.

9. Can a bad glow plug cause the P0381 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Typically, the P0381 code relates to the indicator circuit rather than the glow plugs themselves, but a malfunctioning glow plug system may indirectly contribute to the issue.

10. Will clearing the P0381 code solve the problem on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Clearing the code may temporarily reset the system, but unless the underlying issue is fixed, the code is likely to return. Proper diagnosis and repair are necessary.