AutoCodes – Generic – P133A

P133A Code - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit

Quick Answer

The Glow Plug Control Module has not learned the glow plug offset values. Common causes include Perform Glow Plug Learn procedure, Faulty Glow Plug 3, Glow Plug 3 harness is open or shorted. 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: P133A indicates Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit.
Common causes: Common causes include Perform Glow Plug Learn procedure, Faulty Glow Plug 3, Glow Plug 3 harness is open or shorted.
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 12,467

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 30, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P133A Description

The Glow Plug Control Module has not learned the glow plug offset values. If a glow plug has been replaced and the glow plug learn was not performed, or if the Glow Plug Control Module experiences an Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) error or data corruption, this Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) to set. The DTC will be set if the glow plug hot resistance is outside a predefined threshold.

OBDII Code P133A - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit - AutoCodes.com — P133A Code - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P133A?

Perform Glow Plug Learn procedure
Faulty Glow Plug 3
Glow Plug 3 harness is open or shorted
Glow Plug 3 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P133A?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

If a Glow Plug was replaced, perform a Glow Plug Learn procedure with a Scan Tool.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P133A 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 P133A code?

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Need Help with the Code?

Get the P133A code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P133A Buick — Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133A Cadillac — Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133A Chevrolet — Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133A GMC — Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit

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 P133A Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P133A (Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit)?

Symptoms may include rough idling, reduced engine performance, and in some cases, the Check Engine Light may illuminate.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P133A?

Common causes of this code may include a faulty glow plug in cylinder 3, wiring issues, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code P133A?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, performing a visual inspection of the glow plug and related components, and testing the glow plug's resistance.

4. What should I do if I encounter code P133A?

If you encounter code P133A, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to the engine. Consult a mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair.

5. Can I continue driving with OBDII code P133A present?

It's not advisable to continue driving with this code active, as it can lead to poor engine performance and potential damage. It's best to address the issue as soon as possible.

6. Are there any simple repair tips for resolving OBDII code P133A?

Simple repair tips may include checking and replacing the faulty glow plug, ensuring proper wiring connections, and clearing the code with an OBDII scanner after repairs are made.

7. Is it necessary to replace all glow plugs if only one is faulty?

While it's not always necessary to replace all glow plugs, it's recommended to inspect all of them during diagnosis to prevent future issues. Replacing them in sets can help ensure consistent performance.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P133A at home?

Depending on your skill level and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to address this code at home by following repair guides and tutorials. However, if in doubt, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.

9. How long does it usually take to repair OBDII code P133A?

The repair time for this code can vary based on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair. It's best to consult a mechanic for a more accurate estimate of the repair duration.

10. Is it possible for OBDII code P133A to reoccur after repairs have been made?

If the underlying cause of the code is not fully addressed during repairs, there is a possibility for it to reoccur. It's important to ensure all related components are thoroughly inspected and repaired to prevent recurrence.