AutoCodes – GMC – P133C 2015 GMC Sierra

P133C 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Cylinder 5 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 5, Glow Plug 5 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: P133C 2015 GMC Sierra indicates Cylinder 5 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit.
Common causes: Common causes include Perform Glow Plug Learn procedure, Faulty Glow Plug 5, Glow Plug 5 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 139

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 P133C 2015 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 P133C 2015 GMC Sierra - Cylinder 5 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit - AutoCodes.com — P133C 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Cylinder 5 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P133C 2015 GMC Sierra?

Perform Glow Plug Learn procedure
Faulty Glow Plug 5
Glow Plug 5 harness is open or shorted
Glow Plug 5 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P133C 2015 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 P133C 2015 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 P133C 2015 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P133C 2015 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 P133C 2015 GMC Sierra Code

What does the OBDII code P133C mean for a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P133C indicates that the offset for the glow plug in cylinder 5 has exceeded the learning limit, meaning the system has detected an issue with how the glow plug is functioning.

What are the symptoms of code P133C in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include difficulty starting in cold weather, a check engine light, reduced engine performance, and potentially increased emissions.

What causes the P133C code to appear?

The code is often triggered by a faulty glow plug in cylinder 5, poor electrical connections, a damaged glow plug controller, or a software issue in the engine control module (ECM).

Can I drive my 2015 GMC Sierra with the P133C code?

While the vehicle may still run, driving with this code can lead to prolonged starting issues, especially in cold conditions, and may affect engine performance over time.

How do I diagnose the P133C code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves scanning the ECM for codes, testing the cylinder 5 glow plug for proper resistance, inspecting wiring and connectors, and checking the glow plug control module.

How do I fix the P133C code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common fixes include replacing the faulty cylinder 5 glow plug, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or reprogramming the ECM if a software issue is identified.

What tools are needed to repair the P133C code?

You may need a diagnostic scanner, a multimeter to test electrical connections, and basic tools to remove and replace the glow plug or repair wiring.

How much does it cost to repair the P133C code?

Repair costs can vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the glow plug or wiring needs replacement and labor costs in your area.

Can a bad glow plug in cylinder 5 cause other issues?

Yes, a faulty glow plug can lead to hard starts, uneven combustion, increased fuel consumption, or damage to other engine components if not addressed.

How can I prevent the P133C code from reoccurring?

Regular maintenance, inspecting glow plugs during service intervals, and addressing any electrical issues promptly can help prevent this code from reoccurring.