AutoCodes – GMC – P133A 2017 GMC Sierra

P133A 2017 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 2017 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 208

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 2017 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 2017 GMC Sierra - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit - AutoCodes.com — P133A 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P133A 2017 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 2017 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 2017 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 2017 GMC Sierra code?

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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 2017 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P133A mean on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

P133A indicates that the Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Offset has exceeded its learning limit, meaning the engine control module (ECM) has detected an issue with the glow plug's operation or calibration on cylinder 3.

What are the common symptoms of code P133A on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include difficulty starting the engine in cold weather, rough idling, reduced fuel efficiency, and an illuminated Check Engine Light.

What causes the P133A code to appear in a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include a faulty glow plug on cylinder 3, wiring or connector issues, a malfunctioning glow plug control module, or incorrect glow plug calibration.

How can I diagnose the P133A code in my 2017 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves scanning for additional codes, inspecting the wiring and connectors for cylinder 3's glow plug, testing the glow plug itself, and verifying the operation of the glow plug control module.

Can I drive my 2017 GMC Sierra with the P133A code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, it could experience hard starts and reduced performance, especially in cold weather. Prompt repair is recommended to avoid potential engine damage.

How do I fix the P133A code on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty glow plug on cylinder 3, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or recalibrating the glow plug system using a scan tool.

What tools are needed to repair the P133A code?

A scan tool capable of reading and clearing OBDII codes, a multimeter for testing glow plug resistance, and basic hand tools for removing and installing the glow plug are typically required.

How much does it cost to fix P133A on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs can vary but generally range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the issue is a faulty glow plug, wiring repair, or control module replacement.

Can the P133A code be caused by bad fuel?

While bad fuel isn't a direct cause of P133A, poor combustion from bad fuel can exacerbate starting issues, making it important to use high-quality diesel fuel.

Do I need to recalibrate the glow plug system after replacing a glow plug?

Yes, recalibration may be necessary using a scan tool to ensure the ECM correctly recognizes the new glow plug and adjusts its parameters accordingly.