What Is the P0380 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
When your vehicle throws code P0380, it means there’s a problem with your glow plug or other heater circuit. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM) always monitors the voltage from the glow plug circuit to ensure it functions appropriately. This code does not mean that the glow plug is malfunctioning. Instead, the PCM or ECM has noticed a lower or higher circuit output than usually intended.
More About Error Code P0380
The glow plug is part of a diesel engine that helps heat a combustion chamber from cold engine temperatures. During a cold start, the cold steel of the head and piston will absorb the heat from the combustion process, making it difficult and, in some cases, even impossible to start the engine without adding extra heat to the cold diesel engine. Glow plugs help heat the combustion chambers in most diesel engines, and while they’re most important during cold weather, they’re a key part of the function in any diesel engine, regardless of the temperature outside. If it’s malfunctioning, there’s a serious problem.
Who Has the Lowest Price?
Some service centers will give you an online estimate to compare. Why drive around Town!?
What Are the Symptoms of a P0380 Code?
As with most error codes, the P0380 code will initially turn on the check engine light. Depending on the engine, this code can also make it difficult to start the engine, especially when performing a “cold start,” where the engine has been turned off at least overnight. It’s most impactful in cold temperatures, as this creates more adverse conditions, but this code can cause difficulty starting even when temperatures are fairly moderate.
What Are Some Causes of a P0380 Code?
Code P0380 can occur for several reasons. This problem may be due to a bad glow plug relay, a glow plug relay that is stuck closed, or has a short to power. The glow plug control unit or glow plug module may also be faulty. In some cases, you may be dealing with faulty glow plugs, issues with electrical connections and wiring in the harness, or an open fuse somewhere in the system. In very rare situations, it may be due to a problem with the PCM, but this is exceptionally uncommon.
How Serious Is the P0380 Code?
The P0380 code can be very serious, especially during cold weather. If you’re experiencing problems with DTC P0380, it can lead to general difficulty starting your vehicle, and if the problem worsens, it can leave you stranded. While it isn’t as serious when the weather is fair, you can still see startup issues if your vehicle sits idle overnight or longer. If you’re seeing the P0380 trouble code, you should get help as soon as possible.
Can I Still Drive with a P0380 Code?
You may physically be able to drive when the P0380 trouble code is active. However, that doesn’t mean you should ignore it and keep driving regardless of the code’s presence. The longer you allow this code to stay active, the more likely you’ll find it impossible to start the vehicle. Even if it’s not impeding drivability, you should still get a professional mechanic’s insight into the problems associated with the P0380 code.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0380 Code?
The P0380 code is often quite difficult to diagnose. The code has many possible causes, and many people don’t fully understand the glow plug system impacted in this case. You’ll need to know how to interpret freeze frame data, test the glow plug relay, get information about the control unit, and more. If you’re experiencing the P0380 code, especially if you’re not well-versed in diesel engines and the glow plug relay overall, it’s a good idea to get an expert’s help with the repair steps.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0380 Code?
The inspection process for the P0380 code requires you to follow several steps. You’ll need to check associated fuses, test the glow plug relay, visually inspect the full glow plug system, check the harness connectors, measure glow plug wire resistance, and more. For those with experience with the glow plug system, this might not be especially difficult, but it requires specialty tools that not all DIYers can access. If you’re not sure how difficult it will be for you to inspect the P0380 code, there’s nothing wrong with getting help from an expert mechanic.
Need Additional Help with Your P0380 Code?
If you need extra help with the P0380 code, no worries. Many people do, and a certified mechanic can handle the issues that you’re dealing with.
First, you’ll want to find an auto repair shop in your area. Because it’s not a great idea to drive very far with the P0380 code active, finding a local automobile repair shop will go a long way in helping you find a fix more effectively.
It’s also a good idea to check out the OBD-II database at KBB.com. This database will give you more insight into the definition of any other fault codes you’re experiencing, which can go a long way in diagnosing the problem.
P0380 Q&A
Common Error Codes
Browse All OBD-II Codes
Get Recall Alerts
All recalls are considered serious. Stay safe. Take care of any recalls ASAP. The good news? Recall repairs are free when performed at a local dealer.