AutoCodes – GMC – P133A 2016 GMC Sierra

P133A 2016 GMC Sierra 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 2016 GMC Sierra 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 167

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 2016 GMC Sierra 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 2016 GMC Sierra - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit - AutoCodes.com — P133A 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P133A 2016 GMC Sierra?

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 2016 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 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 2016 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 P133A 2016 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P133A 2016 GMC Sierra 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 P133A 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P133A mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P133A indicates that the glow plug offset for cylinder 3 has exceeded the learning limit, meaning the engine control module (ECM) has detected a performance issue with the glow plug system for that cylinder.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P133A on a GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include difficulty starting the engine in cold weather, reduced engine performance, rough idling, or an illuminated check engine light.

3. What causes the P133A code to appear on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty glow plug, poor electrical connections to the glow plug, a damaged glow plug control module, or carbon buildup affecting the glow plug's performance.

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with the P133A code?

While it may be possible to drive the vehicle, prolonged operation with this code can lead to starting difficulties in cold weather and potential long-term engine damage. Prompt diagnosis and repair are recommended.

5. How do I diagnose the P133A code on my GMC Sierra?

Start by inspecting the glow plug for cylinder 3, checking for electrical continuity and signs of wear. Verify the wiring and connections to the glow plug and test the glow plug control module for proper operation.

6. How do I fix the P133A code on my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common fixes include replacing the faulty glow plug, cleaning or repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, or replacing the glow plug control module if it's not functioning correctly.

7. How much does it cost to repair the P133A code on a GMC Sierra?

The cost varies depending on the issue, but replacing a glow plug typically costs $100â€“$300, including labor. If the control module is faulty, the cost may be higher.

8. What tools are needed to diagnose and repair the P133A code?

Youâ€™ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter for electrical testing, and basic hand tools for removing and replacing the glow plug.

9. Is the P133A code specific to cylinder 3?

Yes, P133A specifically refers to an issue with the glow plug in cylinder 3. Similar codes may indicate problems with glow plugs in other cylinders.

10. Can a dirty or clogged glow plug cause the P133A code?

Yes, carbon buildup on the glow plug can reduce its effectiveness and trigger the P133A code. Cleaning or replacing the glow plug may resolve the issue.