AutoCodes – Generic – P133B

P133B Code - Cylinder 4 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 4, Glow Plug 4 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: P133B indicates Cylinder 4 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit.
Common causes: Common causes include Perform Glow Plug Learn procedure, Faulty Glow Plug 4, Glow Plug 4 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 9,187

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 P133B 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 P133B - Cylinder 4 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit - AutoCodes.com — P133B Code - Cylinder 4 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P133B?

Perform Glow Plug Learn procedure
Faulty Glow Plug 4
Glow Plug 4 harness is open or shorted
Glow Plug 4 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P133B?

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 P133B 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 P133B code?

Need more information on how to fix the P133B code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P133B code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P133B Buick — Cylinder 4 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133B Cadillac — Cylinder 4 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133B Chevrolet — Cylinder 4 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133B GMC — Cylinder 4 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 P133B Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P133B (Cylinder 4 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit)?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, reduced engine performance, misfires, and increased fuel consumption.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P133B?

- The code P133B can be triggered by issues such as a faulty glow plug, a malfunctioning glow plug control module, wiring problems, or software issues.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P133B?

- To diagnose the issue, you may need to perform a thorough inspection of the glow plug, test the glow plug control module, check the wiring for any damage, and scan the vehicle's computer for related error codes.

4. Can I continue driving with OBDII code P133B active?

- It is not recommended to drive with the code P133B active as it can lead to further engine damage and decreased performance. It's best to address the issue promptly.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P133B?

- Repairing the code P133B may involve replacing the faulty glow plug, repairing or replacing the glow plug control module, fixing any wiring issues, and clearing the error code from the vehicle's computer.

6. Are there any DIY tips for fixing OBDII code P133B?

- While some basic troubleshooting like checking the glow plug connections can be done by DIY enthusiasts, it's recommended to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair complex issues related to code P133B.

7. Can a software update fix OBDII code P133B?

- In some cases, a software update from the vehicle manufacturer may address issues related to code P133B, especially if it's caused by software glitches. Consult with a dealership or mechanic for more information.

8. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P133B?

- The cost of repairing OBDII code P133B can vary depending on the underlying cause, parts needed for replacement, and labor costs. It's advisable to get a few quotes from different mechanics to find the best deal.

9. Is OBDII code P133B a common issue in certain vehicle models?

- OBDII code P133B related to the cylinder 4 glow plug offset is more commonly found in diesel vehicles with glow plug systems. However, it can occur in various vehicle models that use glow plugs for cold starts.

10. Can OBDII code P133B lead to other engine problems if left unresolved?

- Yes, leaving OBDII code P133B unresolved can potentially lead to more severe engine issues such as damage to the cylinder, decreased fuel efficiency, and engine misfires. It's crucial to address the problem promptly.