AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P133C Chevrolet

P133C Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet 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 1,437

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 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet - Cylinder 5 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit - AutoCodes.com — P133C Chevrolet Code - Cylinder 5 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P133C Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the P133C Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P133C Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

P133C 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 5 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133C 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 5 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133C 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 5 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133C 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 5 Glow Plug Offset Exceeded Learning Limit
P133C 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Cylinder 5 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 P133C Chevrolet Code

1. What does the OBDII code P133C mean on a Chevrolet?

P133C indicates that the glow plug offset learning limit for cylinder 5 has been exceeded, meaning the ECM has detected a problem with the glow plug circuit or its calibration for that cylinder.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P133C code?

Symptoms may include difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, reduced engine performance, increased exhaust smoke, and the check engine light being illuminated.

3. What causes the P133C code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty glow plug in cylinder 5, damaged glow plug wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning glow plug control module, or issues with the ECM's calibration.

4. Can I drive my Chevrolet with the P133C code?

Driving with this code may be possible, but it is not recommended as it can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and potential damage to the engine or exhaust system.

5. How do I diagnose the P133C code?

Diagnose the code by inspecting the glow plug for cylinder 5, checking the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and testing the glow plug control module for proper operation.

6. How do I fix the P133C code on my Chevrolet?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty glow plug for cylinder 5, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming/updating the ECM if necessary.

7. Are special tools needed to diagnose the P133C code?

Yes, tools like an OBDII scanner, a multimeter, and a glow plug tester may be required to properly diagnose and pinpoint the issue.

8. What is the role of the glow plug in a diesel engine?

Glow plugs are used to preheat the air inside the combustion chamber to aid in cold starting and ensure efficient combustion in diesel engines.

9. How much does it cost to repair the P133C code?

The cost can vary but typically includes the price of a replacement glow plug (around $20-$50) plus labor, which could range from $100 to $200 depending on the shop and difficulty of access.

10. Can a software update fix the P133C code?

In some cases, a software update to the ECM can resolve the issue if it stems from incorrect calibration or a known software bug. Consult your dealer or mechanic for more information.