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P0677 — Cylinder 7 Glow Plug Circuitopen

Generic OBD-II · all makesPowertrain (engine & transmission)

Code P0677 indicates that the engine control module has detected an open circuit in the glow plug heating element for cylinder 7. This means electrical current cannot flow through the plug, preventing it from heating the combustion chamber during cold starts.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed Glow Plug

The heating element inside the cylinder 7 glow plug has burnt out, creating an internal open circuit.

2. Corroded or Loose Connector

Corrosion or a loose fit at the glow plug terminal prevents electrical contact.

3. Wiring Harness Damage

The wiring leading to cylinder 7 is chafed, broken, or shorted, interrupting the circuit.

4. Faulty Glow Plug Control Module

The driver or relay within the glow plug control module has failed, preventing power from reaching the plug.

5. PCM/ECM Failure

The engine computer is failing to trigger the control module or incorrectly interpreting the circuit status.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve the specific fault code using an OBD-II scanner to confirm it is isolated to cylinder 7.
  2. Visually inspect the glow plug connector and wiring harness for signs of melting, corrosion, or physical damage.
  3. Remove the glow plug connector and measure the resistance of the glow plug using a digital multimeter; an infinite reading indicates a failed plug.
  4. Perform a continuity test on the wiring between the glow plug connector and the control module.
  5. Verify that the glow plug control module is providing the required voltage to the cylinder 7 circuit during the heating cycle.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Can I drive the vehicle with a P0677 code?

Yes, the vehicle will typically run fine once warm, but cold starting will be more difficult and may cause increased engine wear.

Do I need to replace all glow plugs if only one is failed?

While not strictly necessary to clear the code, glow plugs often fail around the same time; replacing the set is common practice for long-term reliability.

Should I replace the PCM if the glow plug circuit is open?

No. P0677 is almost always caused by the plug itself, the wiring, or the control module. Replacing the PCM is rarely the correct solution and should only be considered after all other components are proven functional.