A180 (2016) Glow Plug Life Span. Timing Belt Change. B Service

[Ricki Divetta]

Hi, I have an A180 (2016) 1.5 diesel. I had the glow plugs (x4) replaced in July 2020 when the vehicle had done 59k. The glow plug warning has illuminated again (fault code
P0380 - Glow Plug/Heater Circuit A) and the car has done approx. 17k since they were changed last. Is this normal failure time? What is recommended here?

I also would like to know when the timing belt (or other timing system type) requires changing?

Finally, what is a B service? I have a warning on dash that it is due soon.

Thanks
Ricki

 

[mattkh]

Have you had it from new..?
This time it may be the glow plug relay.
A B service is more than just an oil+filter change.

 

[alexanderfoti]

B service is usually oil and filter + Brake fluid

B then a number usually indicates additional items (Air filter, fuel filter, gearbox oil change etc)

I would expect them to last longer than that, may warrant further diagnostics on the GP side

 

[mioba]

The plugs on my W220 lasted 72k (18 years) ..... (note to self: Jesus the car still looks great). Only one plug failed but I replaced them all. Plugs last a looooong time and I would say the relay is shot.

B service includes lots of visible checks and of course additional items that will need doing based on mileage/time.

Mercs mostly use a timing chain, but I cant say for the smaller cars and yours may be Renault engine with belt, but someone more familiar with the engine will clarify.

 

[alexanderfoti]

Belt is every 62k or 5 years.

 

[malcolm E53 AMG]

Depends on who did the service and changed the plugs if Mercedes take it back if not find out whether the parts are OE branded not all glow plugs are born the same so as to speak I only fit Mercedes parts and as said you should expect >70k miles from them

 

[Ricki Divetta]

Thanks for all replies, much appreciated. I've heard Pre-glow control module & control relay mentioned a few times (Google search). any idea where this is located, how to test or cost of a replacement?? Could it be done at home I guess I'm asking?? Also seem to have a fault with drivers side front proximity sensors, goes into alarm very frequently & only started same time as glow plug warning light came on. I've tried making sure they're all clean. Could this point toward something??

Thanks
Ricki

 

[Frontstep]

Glow plugs work like incandescent bulbs if you can get to them put a multimeter across them to test continuity.
If they aren't getting power when you put your ignition on in right place then it maybe the relay.

What are the starting symptoms?

 

[Ricki Divetta]

Glow plugs work like incandescent bulbs if you can get to them put a multimeter across them to test continuity.
If they aren't getting power when you put your ignition on in right place then it maybe the relay.

What are the starting symptoms?

The car starts fine just the Pre-glow warning lamp stays on. I've reset it using a small code reader but comes back on again when car restarts

 

[Frontstep]

If it starts evenly and the plugs measure up and are receiving their volts, then the relay might have an issue as it governs the plug's overall operation when and how long there on.

I don't know where it is on your car have a look for one online then match it up and you should see where it is on your car.