OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic, extended)
P26A2 Exhaust Aftertreatment Glow Plug Circuit High
The aftertreatment glow plug current is above expected. Internal short reduces resistance. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.
Is it safe to drive with P26A2?
Usually safe to drive in the short term. Get it diagnosed when convenient, sooner if the car drives differently.
Common causes
- Most likelyInternal short in the glow plug element
- Less likelySupply voltage above specification
- Less likelyConnector pins corroded - high contact resistance
Symptoms
- Glow plug warning light on (often orange coil symbol)
- Hard cold start or no start in cold weather
- White smoke from exhaust during warm-up
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Medium
- DIY friendly
- Best left to a mechanic
- Typical labour
- 0.8–3 h
- Emissions test
- Usually unaffected
- Parts involved
- Aftertreatment Glow Plug
Related codes
- P269FExhaust Aftertreatment Glow Plug Circuit / Open
- P26A0Exhaust Aftertreatment Glow Plug Performance
- P26A1Exhaust Aftertreatment Glow Plug Circuit Low
- P26A3Engine Coolant Bypass Valve A Range/Performance
- P26A4Engine Coolant Bypass Valve A Position Sensor Circuit
- P26A5Engine Coolant Bypass Valve A Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.