Diagnostic Aids
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sierra, 2003 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2003 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
If glow plug relay or controller is stuck in ON position, check for proper operation of the glow plugs. When glow plugs are commanded ON by scan tool, an internal ECM timer protects glow plugs from damage by cycling them ON for 3 seconds and then OFF for 12 seconds. Most glow plug system failures are covered by DTC P0380. If no DTCs are stored and the engine is hard to start, and White smoke is present during cranking or after engine is started, the most likely cause of failure is faulty glow plugs.