Failed glow plug control module due to internal overheating or component failure.; Short circuit in the glow plug wiring harness, causing excessive current draw.; Defective glow plug with low resistance or short to ground, overloading the module.; Poor electrical connection at the module or glow plugs, leading to resistance and heat build-up.; Corroded or damaged connector pins at the module, increasing resistance.; Water intrusion or contamination in the module connector or housing.; Engine control module (ECM) software issue or faulty communication causing false over-temperature reporting.

DTC codes / P26xx · Computer and output circuits / P263E

P263EGlow Plug Control Module 1 Over Temperature

Q: What does code P263E mean?

Glow Plug Control Module 1 Over Temperature. P263E means the glow plug control module (the computer that regulates power to the glow plugs) has reported an internal over-temperature condition to the engine control module. The engine computer sets this code when the module's internal temperature sensor indicates the module itself is too hot, usually due to excessive current draw, a short circuit, or a failing module.

P263E means the glow plug control module (the computer that regulates power to the glow plugs) has reported an internal over-temperature condition to the engine control module. The engine computer sets this code when the module's internal temperature sensor indicates the module itself is too hot, usually due to excessive current draw, a short circuit, or a failing module.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaComputer and output circuits

Symptoms you may notice

Illuminated check engine light or glow plug warning light, often with no other symptoms.
Hard cold starting or rough idle after start-up because glow plugs may be disabled.
Extended cranking time before the engine fires, especially in cold weather.
White smoke from the exhaust after a cold start due to incomplete combustion.
In some cases, the engine may enter limp mode or limit power to protect the module.
No noticeable performance issue in warm weather or once the engine is warm.

Common causes, most likely first

Failed glow plug control module due to internal overheating or component failure.
Short circuit in the glow plug wiring harness, causing excessive current draw.
Defective glow plug with low resistance or short to ground, overloading the module.
Poor electrical connection at the module or glow plugs, leading to resistance and heat build-up.
Corroded or damaged connector pins at the module, increasing resistance.
Water intrusion or contamination in the module connector or housing.
Engine control module (ECM) software issue or faulty communication causing false over-temperature reporting.

How to diagnose and fix it

Scan all modules for stored and pending codes, and record freeze-frame data to understand when the fault occurred.
Visually inspect the glow plug control module, its connectors, and wiring for damage, corrosion, or signs of overheating.
Measure the resistance of each glow plug and compare to specifications; replace any that are out of range.
Check for short circuits or excessive current draw in the glow plug circuit using a multimeter or clamp meter.
Test the glow plug control module with a known-good unit or follow the manufacturer's diagnostic procedure to confirm failure.
Repair or replace damaged wiring, connectors, or the module as needed, then clear codes and verify the repair with a test drive.

Overheating module often points to glow plug faults

A shorted or low-resistance glow plug can cause the control module to overheat and set P263E, so always test the plugs before replacing the module.
The module may report over-temperature even when the engine is cold if the internal sensor is faulty, leading to unnecessary module replacement.
Intermittent wiring faults that only appear when the engine is hot or vibrating can trigger this code without a permanent failure.
Some vehicles use the glow plug control module to communicate over a dedicated bus; a communication error can be misread as an over-temperature fault.
After replacing the module, it may require programming or adaptation to the vehicle, which is often overlooked.

Can I keep driving with P263E?

You can usually drive the vehicle, but cold starting may be difficult and the engine may run rough until warm. Avoid heavy electrical loads and prolonged driving if the engine is in limp mode; have the fault diagnosed soon to prevent further damage.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.