Code Definition

P161C — Glow Plug for Cylinder 3 (Q12) Open Circuit: Upper Limit Exceeded

System: Powertrain  |  Type: Manufacturer-Specific  |  Make: Audi

About P161C

P161C is a manufacturer-specific powertrain diagnostic trouble code recorded for Audi vehicles. It belongs to the P-prefix family of codes, which covers engine, transmission, emissions, or fuel-system faults.

When P161C is stored, the module has detected an open (broken or disconnected) electrical path in the monitored circuit; and a signal or supply voltage lower than the expected operating range.

Scanning & clearing: A generic OBD-II scan tool will usually read and clear powertrain (P) codes. For live data, freeze-frame capture, and bi-directional tests you may need a more capable scan tool that supports the vehicle's ECM protocol.

P161C is a manufacturer-specific code. The same code string on a different make may have a different meaning. Always confirm the code's definition against the vehicle's service information for the specific make and model under test.

Code Information

The Engine Control Module (ECM), in conjunction with the glow plug control module (J179), monitors the glow plug circuit for each cylinder to verify correct electrical resistance and current draw during pre glow, post glow, and intermediate diagnostic checks. Each glow plug is a high current resistive heater that warms the combustion chamber to assist cold start ignition and to reduce cold idle smoke and emissions. DTC P161C is set when the control module detects an open circuit or excessively high resistance on the cylinder 3 glow plug (Q12) circuit, with the measured current draw falling bel...

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