Glow Plug: Description and Operation

The four glow plugs are small heating elements, one for each cylinder, mounted in the cylinder head with the tips projecting into the combustion pre-chambers. The glow plugs assist combustion during cold starts by providing additional heat for ignition. Voltage to the bus bar connecting the glow plugs is supplied by the glow plug relay whenever the ignition key is turned on. The glow plug relay is located on the fuse/ relay panel. An indicator light on the instrument cluster signals that the system is operating, and also indicates when the engine is ready to start when it goes out. The length of time that the system operates and the indicator remains lit is controlled by an engine temperature sensor. Above a certain temperature, the system does not operate.