AutoCodes – Ford – P138A Ford

P138A Ford Code - Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit Range/Performance

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Glow Plug Control Module. Common causes include Faulty Glow Plug Control Module, Glow Plug Control Module harness is open or shorted, Glow Plug Control Module circuit poor electrical connection. 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
P138A Ford indicates Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit Range/Performance.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Glow Plug Control Module, Glow Plug Control Module harness is open or shorted, Glow Plug Control Module circuit poor electrical connection.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 2,263
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 24, 2019
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Code P138A Ford Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Glow Plug Control Module. The ECM sets the OBDII code when Glow Plug Control Module is not working properly.
OBDII Code P138A Ford - Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com
P138A Ford Code - Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit Range/Performance

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P138A Ford?

  • Faulty Glow Plug Control Module
  • Glow Plug Control Module harness is open or shorted
  • Glow Plug Control Module circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P138A Ford?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P138A Ford 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 P138A Ford 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 P138A Ford Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P138A in a Ford related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, difficulty starting the engine, reduced fuel efficiency, and the check engine light turning on.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P138A in a Ford related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit?

- Possible causes include a faulty glow plug control module, damaged wiring or connectors, a defective glow plug relay, or issues with the glow plugs themselves.

3. How can I diagnose OBDII code P138A in a Ford related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit?

- Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the trouble code, checking the glow plug control module, inspecting wiring for damage, and testing the glow plugs and relay.

4. Can I continue driving my Ford with OBDII code P138A related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code as it can lead to poor engine performance and potential further damage if left unresolved.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P138A in a Ford related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit?

- Repair involves replacing the glow plug control module if faulty, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, testing and replacing the glow plug relay if necessary, and ensuring proper functioning of the glow plugs.

6. Are there any maintenance tips to prevent OBDII code P138A related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit in a Ford?

- Regularly inspect and maintain the glow plug system, follow the manufacturer's recommended service intervals, and address any engine performance issues promptly to prevent this code from occurring.

7. Can weather conditions affect OBDII code P138A in a Ford related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit?

- Extreme cold weather can put more strain on the glow plug system, potentially leading to issues related to this code. Ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained can help prevent weather-related problems.

8. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P138A related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit in a Ford?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may take anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day to diagnose and repair the problem effectively.

9. Can I reset the check engine light after resolving OBDII code P138A in a Ford related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit?

- Yes, once the underlying issue is fixed, the check engine light can be reset using an OBDII scanner to clear the trouble code from the vehicle's system.

10. Is it necessary to take my Ford to a mechanic for OBDII code P138A related to the Glow Plug Control Module Control Circuit, or can I fix it myself?

- Depending on your experience and access to tools, you may be able to diagnose and repair this issue yourself. However, if you're unsure or if the problem persists, it's recommended to seek professional assistance.

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