Engine-CodesVolkswagen – P0673 Volkswagen

P0673 Volkswagen Code - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault

Quick Answer

The P0673 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for Volkswagen vehicles specifically refers to a fault in the cylinder 3 glow plug circuit. Common causes include Faulty glow plug in cylinder 3, Damaged wiring or connectors in the glow plug circuit, Malfunctioning glow plug control module. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0673 Volkswagen indicates Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty glow plug in cylinder 3, Damaged wiring or connectors in the glow plug circuit, Malfunctioning glow plug control module.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 10, 2024
💬 Need more help? Ask Auto Expert for instant answers — it's free!
AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play

Code P0673 Volkswagen Description

The P0673 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for Volkswagen vehicles specifically refers to a fault in the cylinder 3 glow plug circuit. Glow plugs are essential components in diesel engines, serving to heat the combustion chamber for easier starting in cold conditions. When the engine is cold, the glow plugs heat up to help ignite the air-fuel mixture. In the case of cylinder 3, a malfunction in the glow plug circuit can lead to starting difficulties, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential engine misfires.

OBDII Code P0673 Volkswagen - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault
P0673 Volkswagen Code - Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault

Common Causes of P0673 Volkswagen

  1. Faulty glow plug in cylinder 3.
  2. Damaged wiring or connectors in the glow plug circuit.
  3. Malfunctioning glow plug control module.
  4. Issues with the engine's computer system or sensors.
  5. Corrosion or poor electrical connections in the glow plug circuit.

Symptoms of P0673 Volkswagen

  1. Hard starting or difficulty starting the engine, especially in cold weather.
  2. Rough idling or a noticeable decrease in engine performance.
  3. Increased fuel consumption due to inefficient combustion.
  4. The check engine light may be illuminated on the dashboard.
  5. Engine misfires or hesitation during acceleration.

How to Fix P0673 Volkswagen

  1. Begin by diagnosing the specific cause of the fault using a diagnostic scanner to pinpoint the issue accurately.
  2. Inspect the glow plug in cylinder 3 to determine if it is faulty and needs replacement.
  3. Check the wiring and connectors in the glow plug circuit for any damage or corrosion, repairing or replacing as necessary.
  4. Test the glow plug control module to ensure it is functioning correctly and replace it if needed.
  5. Clear the DTC from the vehicle's memory using the diagnostic scanner and test the vehicle to ensure that the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P0673 Volkswagen

The typical repair costs for addressing a cylinder 3 glow plug circuit fault in a Volkswagen vehicle can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. On average, the cost of replacing a glow plug ranges from $50 to $150 per plug, with additional costs for labor and diagnostic testing. Overall, the total repair cost for this issue can range from $150 to $500, including parts and labor. It is essential to consult with a qualified mechanic or auto repair shop to get an accurate estimate based on the specific vehicle and the extent of the repair needed.

Tech Notes for P0673 Volkswagen









User Submitted Video

When is the Code Detected?

The Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a fault in the cylinder #3 glow plug circuit

Need more information about the P0673 Volkswagen code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0673 Volkswagen code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0673 Volkswagen code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0673 Volkswagen Code

1. What are the common symptoms of an OBDII code P0673 in a Volkswagen related to the Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault?

- Common symptoms include hard starting, rough idle, misfires, reduced engine power, and the illumination of the check engine light.

2. What are the possible causes of the OBDII code P0673 in a Volkswagen indicating a Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault?

- Potential causes may include a faulty glow plug, damaged wiring or connectors in the glow plug circuit, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0673 in a Volkswagen for a Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault?

- Diagnosing involves using a scan tool to read the code, inspecting the glow plug and related components, checking for continuity in the circuit, and testing the ECM.

4. Can I still drive my Volkswagen with an OBDII code P0673 related to the Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this fault, as it can lead to performance issues and potential engine damage. It is best to address the issue promptly.

5. How can I repair an OBDII code P0673 in a Volkswagen for a Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault?

- Repair typically involves replacing the faulty glow plug, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and resetting the fault code with a scan tool after the repair.

6. Are there any maintenance tips to prevent the OBDII code P0673 in a Volkswagen for a Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault?

- Regularly inspecting and testing the glow plugs, as well as ensuring proper maintenance of the glow plug circuit, can help prevent this code from appearing.

7. Is it possible for other cylinders to experience similar glow plug circuit faults in a Volkswagen besides Cylinder 3?

- Yes, other cylinders in the engine can also experience similar glow plug circuit faults, resulting in different OBDII fault codes related to those specific cylinders.

8. What should I do if the OBDII code P0673 in my Volkswagen persists after replacing the glow plug for Cylinder 3?

- If the fault code persists after replacing the glow plug, further diagnostics may be needed to identify any other underlying issues such as wiring problems or ECM issues.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast with basic automotive knowledge repair an OBDII code P0673 in a Volkswagen for a Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault?

- While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to replace a glow plug themselves, diagnosing and repairing the entire circuit fault may require more advanced knowledge and tools.

10. How long does it typically take to repair an OBDII code P0673 in a Volkswagen related to a Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit Fault?

- The repair time can vary depending on the extent of the issue and the experience of the technician, but it generally takes around 1-2 hours to diagnose and replace a glow plug.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0673 Volkswagen OBDII Code

Code P0673 Volkswagen comments

No comments found for this page.