VOLVO
ECM-P138B16 - Glow Plug Control Module System Voltage. General Electrical Failures. Circuit voltage below threshold
System
Engine Control Module (ECM)
Volvo models this fault code applies to
Applies to the following models:
8 modelsS60 (2011–), S80 (2007–), V40 (2013–), V40 Cross Country (2013–), V60 (2011–), V70 (2008–), XC60 (2009–), XC70 (2008–)
Show models by year and engine (8)
- Volvo S60 (2011–)2014–2015Engine D4204T5 only
- Volvo S80 (2007–)2014–2015Engine D4204T5 only
- Volvo V40 (2013–)2015Engine D4204T14 only
- Volvo V40 Cross Country (2013–)2015Engine D4204T14 only
- Volvo V60 (2011–)2014–2015Engine D4204T5 only
- Volvo V70 (2008–)2014–2015Engine D4204T5 only
- Volvo XC60 (2009–)2014–2015Engine D4204T5 only
- Volvo XC70 (2008–)2014–2015Engine D4204T5 only
What does this fault code mean?
The fault concerns the earthing of the glow control module. The module is earthed both through the control module chassis and through a separate earth point, and the engine control module (ECM) sets the code when one of the earth connections is faulty.
Possible causes
- Damaged fuse
- Contact resistance or oxidation in the connector
- Open circuit in the signal wire
- Damaged glow plug relay
What you can do
- 1Check that the fuse for the glow control module is intact. The locations are in the owner's manual or on the fuse box cover.
- 2Check the earth points of the glow control module. It is earthed both through the chassis and through its own earth point, so both should be tight and clean.
- 3Go through the connector to the glow control module. It should be secure and free from oxide.
- 4Look for broken or chafed signal wires to the glow control module.
- 5Have a workshop check the glow plug relay and the supply to the glow control module, as this needs measurements.
Symptoms you may notice1
- The engine is hard to start and cranks slowly, especially on a cold start
What the fault can affect1
- Glow plug operation is limited
General guidance for car owners. Diagnosis on the car can point to a different cause.