AutoCodesChevrolet – P06C5 Chevrolet

P06C5 Chevrolet Code - Cylinder 1 Glow Plug Incorrect

Quick Answer

n the diesel engine, air alone is compressed in the cylinder. Common causes include Faulty cylinder #1 glow plug, Cylinder #1 glow plug harness is open or shorted, Cylinder #1 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
P06C5 Chevrolet indicates Cylinder 1 Glow Plug Incorrect.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty cylinder #1 glow plug, Cylinder #1 glow plug harness is open or shorted, Cylinder #1 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 536
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 20, 2022
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Code P06C5 Chevrolet Description

n the diesel engine, air alone is compressed in the cylinder. Then, after the air has been compressed, a charge of fuel is sprayed into the cylinder and ignition occurs, due to the heat of compression. Eight glow plugs are used as an aid to start.
Control of the glow plugs is accomplished by the glow plug control module. The nominal voltage for the glow plugs is 5.4 volts. When the ignition is turned On, the glow plug control module applies 7.2 V for 2.2 s, then 5.7 V for 0.8 s, and then 5.4 V until 1200°C (2192°F) is reached. The maximum voltage of the system is 10 V. While the engine is running the voltage will vary between 4.7 - 10 V when in closed loop control to maintain a glow plug temperature that ranges from 1150° - 1180°C (2102° - 2156°F). The temperature and the power consumption are controlled between the Engine Control Module (ECM) and the glow plug control module within a wide range to suit the engine's pre-heating requirements. Each glow plug is energized individually. This capability yields more optimum heat times for the glow plugs, thus pre - glow times can be kept to a minimum for a short wait to crank times and maximum glow plug durability. A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the Glow Plug resistance is not within a calibrated range.
OBDII Code P06C5 Chevrolet - Cylinder 1 Glow Plug Incorrect - AutoCodes.com
P06C5 Chevrolet Code - Cylinder 1 Glow Plug Incorrect

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P06C5 Chevrolet?

  • Faulty cylinder #1 glow plug
  • Cylinder #1 glow plug harness is open or shorted
  • Cylinder #1 glow plug circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Glow Plug Control Module

How to Fix the DTC P06C5 Chevrolet?

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 P06C5 Chevrolet 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 P06C5 Chevrolet code?

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Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

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 P06C5 Chevrolet Code

1. What does the OBDII code P06C5 mean on a Chevrolet?

P06C5 indicates "Cylinder 1 Glow Plug Incorrect," meaning the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected an issue with the glow plug in cylinder 1, such as improper function or resistance.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P06C5?

Symptoms may include difficulty starting the engine in cold weather, rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, and an illuminated check engine light.

3. What causes the P06C5 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty glow plug in cylinder 1, damaged wiring or connectors in the glow plug circuit, or a malfunctioning glow plug control module.

4. Can I drive my Chevrolet with the P06C5 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, starting issues in cold weather and potential long-term damage to the engine make it important to address the issue promptly.

5. How do I troubleshoot the P06C5 code?

Start by inspecting the glow plug for cylinder 1 for damage or wear. Check the wiring and connectors in the glow plug circuit for corrosion or loose connections.

6. How do I fix the P06C5 code on my Chevrolet?

Repair or replace the faulty glow plug in cylinder 1, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, and, if needed, replace the glow plug control module.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P06C5 code?

The cost depends on the specific repair. Replacing a glow plug typically costs $50-$150, while more extensive wiring or control module repairs may be higher.

8. Can a bad glow plug damage my engine?

Yes, a malfunctioning glow plug can cause incomplete combustion, leading to carbon buildup and increased wear on engine components over time.

9. How can I prevent the P06C5 code from recurring?

Regularly inspect and replace glow plugs as part of routine maintenance, and ensure wiring and connectors in the glow plug circuit remain in good condition.

10. Do I need special tools to replace a glow plug?

You’ll need basic hand tools and possibly a specialized glow plug socket to safely remove and install the glow plug without causing damage.

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