Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The performance of the Glow Plug Circuit for Cylinder 11 is outside the expected range.
What does that mean?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that applies to OBD-II vehicles, including Ford, Toyota, Dodge, Ram, Chevy, GMC, VW Audi, Peugeot, Citroen, and others. The specific repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration of the vehicle.
When the code P06C3 is stored, it indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an issue with the glow plug control circuit for cylinder #11. To determine the location of cylinder #11 for your specific vehicle, consult a reliable source of vehicle information.
In diesel engines, glow plugs are used to increase cylinder temperature and maximize compression. Unlike spark plugs, glow plugs are threaded into the cylinder head and are heated by battery voltage. When the glow plug reaches the desired temperature, the voltage is restricted and the glow plug returns to its normal state.
If the PCM detects a voltage level outside the expected range for the glow plug control circuit of cylinder #11, it will store the code P06C3 and may illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL).
Photo of a typical glow plug:
What is the severity of this DTC?
A code related to glow plugs is likely to cause drivability issues. It is important to address a stored code P06C3 promptly.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P06C3 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Possible causes for this P06C3 code may include:
What are some P06C3 troubleshooting steps?
To accurately diagnose a code P06C3, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a reliable source of vehicle information, and a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM). Use the vehicle information source to search for applicable technical service bulletins (TSB) that match your vehicle make, model, symptoms, and stored code.
You may also need additional information such as diagnostic flow charts, wiring diagrams, connector face views, connector pin out charts, component locations, and component testing procedures/specifications. After visually inspecting the glow plug and control wiring and connectors, connect the diagnostic scanner to the vehicle diagnostic port. Retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data, and record them for reference. Test drive the vehicle to see if the code P06C3 is reset. If it is reset, continue with the diagnosis. If not, you may be dealing with an intermittent condition that requires further monitoring.
A reliable way to test glow plugs is to remove them and apply battery voltage. If the glow plug glows red, it is functioning properly. If it fails to heat up, you can use a DVOM to test its resistance. If it does not meet the manufacturer’s specifications, it is likely defective. Take precautions to avoid burns or fires during this test.
If the glow plugs appear to be working correctly, use the scanner to activate the glow plug timer and test for battery voltage (and a ground) at the glow plug connector using the DVOM. If no voltage is present, test the power supply for the glow plug timer or glow plug controller. Test all related fuses and relays as recommended by the manufacturer. It is best to test system fuses and fusible links with the circuit loaded to ensure accurate results.
If all fuses and relays are functional, use the DVOM to test the output voltage at the glow plug timer or PCM. If voltage is detected, there may be an open or shorted circuit. You can investigate the cause of the discrepancy or replace the circuit.
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