P0380 on Audi
Glow Plug/Heater Circuit A Malfunction
P0380 on Audi vehicles indicates glow plug/heater circuit a malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Audi model — most commonly on A3. P0380 applies to diesel engines and means the computer detected a malfunction in glow plug heater circuit 'A'. Glow plugs preheat the combustion chambers to help a cold diesel start, and the control module monitors the glow plug circuit (often through a relay/control module); when the current or voltage isn't what it expects, it sets this code. The most noticeable symptom is hard cold starting, rough running until warm, or extra white smoke at startup. It indicates an electrical fault in the glow plug system rather than a fuel-injection problem. Typical repair costs on Audi range from $150 to $600, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0380
- •One or more failed glow plugs
- •Faulty glow plug control module or relay
- •Corroded or loose glow plug wiring/connectors
- •Open or shorted glow plug circuit wiring
- •Blown glow plug fuse
- •Poor power feed or ground to the glow plug circuit
- •Failed driver in the engine control module
P0380 on Audi by Model
Audi A3(1 issue)
- Glow Plug Failure2010-2015
Glow plugs can fail, making cold starting difficult, especially in cold weather. The CBEA/CJAA engines use 'smart' glow plugs with integrated cylinder pressure sensors. OEM glow plug: 03L905061F (superseded to 03L905061K, then 03L905061M, current: 03L905061L). 4 plugs per engine. Glow plug control module (J179): 03L907281 (superseded to 03L907281B). Failed glow plugs can break during removal, requiring special extraction.
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View P0380 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0380 mean on Audi?▼
P0380 stands for "Glow Plug/Heater Circuit A Malfunction." P0380 applies to diesel engines and means the computer detected a malfunction in glow plug heater circuit 'A'. Glow plugs preheat the combustion chambers to help a cold diesel start, and the control module monitors the glow plug circuit (often through a relay/control module); when the current or voltage isn't what it expects, it sets this code. The most noticeable symptom is hard cold starting, rough running until warm, or extra white smoke at startup. It indicates an electrical fault in the glow plug system rather than a fuel-injection problem. On Audi specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P0380 on Audi vehicles?▼
Common causes on Audi: One or more failed glow plugs, Faulty glow plug control module or relay, Corroded or loose glow plug wiring/connectors, Open or shorted glow plug circuit wiring, Blown glow plug fuse. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0380 on a Audi?▼
Repair costs on Audi range from $150 to $600, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Audi models have P0380 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0380 on 1 Audi model: A3.