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StartingSeverity Low: usually safe to drive

P0381Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit

What it means

The ECU sees a fault in the circuit of the glow plug warning lamp on the dashboard.

Symptoms

  • Glow plug lamp not working or always on

Common causes

  • Faulty lamp or instrument cluster circuit
  • Wiring fault
  • Communication fault with the cluster

What to check first

  1. Check whether the lamp comes on at key-on
  2. Check the wiring or CAN messages to the cluster
  3. Check for other cluster codes
Can I drive with P0381? Usually yes. P0381 rarely affects how the car drives, but it keeps the check engine light on and can fail an emissions test.

Generic OBD-II meaning. Manufacturer-specific meanings and checks can differ; always check the service information for the car.

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P0381: questions and answers

What does P0381 mean?

P0381: Glow Plug/Heater Indicator Circuit. The ECU sees a fault in the circuit of the glow plug warning lamp on the dashboard.

What are the symptoms of P0381?

Glow plug lamp not working or always on.

What causes P0381?

Faulty lamp or instrument cluster circuit. Wiring fault. Communication fault with the cluster.

How do you diagnose P0381?

1. Check whether the lamp comes on at key-on 2. Check the wiring or CAN messages to the cluster 3. Check for other cluster codes

Can I drive with P0381?

Usually yes. P0381 rarely affects how the car drives, but it keeps the check engine light on and can fail an emissions test.