P0673 – BMW DTC

BMW DTC P0673 – Cylinder 3 Glow Plug Circuit/Open

DTC P0673 meaning on BMW

DTC P0673 for BMW indicates a fault in the glow plug circuit for cylinder 3. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the glow plug circuit to ensure proper operation during cold starts. A circuit/open issue means that there is a break or discontinuity in the electrical path for the glow plug in cylinder 3.

BMW DTC P0673 symptoms

Symptoms of DTC P0673 on a BMW may include:

  • Hard starting, especially in cold weather
  • Rough idling during cold starts
  • Decreased fuel efficiency
  • Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated on the dashboard

BMW DTC P0673 causes

The common causes of DTC P0673 on a BMW are:

  • Defective glow plug in cylinder 3
  • Wiring issues such as breaks or shorts in the circuit
  • Faulty glow plug relay
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

BMW DTC P0673 seriousness

Ignoring DTC P0673 on a BMW can lead to starting difficulties, especially in cold weather. Continued operation with a faulty glow plug can also cause damage to the engine due to incomplete combustion during cold starts. It is recommended to address this issue promptly to avoid further complications.

How to diagnose DTC P0673 on BMW

To diagnose DTC P0673 on a BMW, you can follow these steps:

  1. Use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the fault code
  2. Inspect the glow plug in cylinder 3 for continuity and proper operation
  3. Check the wiring harness for any breaks or shorts
  4. Test the glow plug relay for functionality
  5. Verify the ECM operation related to the glow plug circuit

How to fix DTC P0673 on BMW

To fix DTC P0673 on a BMW, you can perform the following steps:

  1. Replace the faulty glow plug in cylinder 3
  2. Repair any wiring issues in the glow plug circuit
  3. Replace the glow plug relay if necessary
  4. If the ECM is faulty, consider reprogramming or replacing it

How to erase DTC P0673 on BMW

To erase DTC P0673 on a BMW, you can use a diagnostic scanner to clear the fault code from the ECM’s memory. After addressing the underlying issue causing the fault code, clearing it from the system will reset the Check Engine Light and ensure proper operation.

Recommended tools & DTC Scanners for BMW

Best Diagnostic App for modern BMWs: BimmerLink

Recommended Bluetooth adapter for Bimmerlink: OBDLink CX

Cable adapter for Bimmerlink: Enet Cable USB Type C

For older BMWs we recommend: Autel AutoLink AL319 (2024 version)

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

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