Glow Plug: Why It's On With Warm Engine?

The glow plug light on my Volkswagen Golf IV comes on briefly (about 2 seconds) even when the engine is already warm.
There's nothing wrong with the drive.
Does this indicate a problem, or is it harmless?


Besides that, can I also use ceramic glow plugs, or not?

Sure, here is the translation of the text from German to English:

"Hi,"

For the preheating indicator: Please read your operating manual. This is a normal function test of the MSG (Motor Start Generator) and has nothing to do with the preheating function.

Best regards,

January.

Please read the forum rules carefully (which you haven't done yet). Also, use the search function. Otherwise, as Jan mentioned, please read the user manual; it explains that this lamp, among other things, indicates the engine's preheating status, but also has other functions.
If you also tell us exactly which candles you want and what hopes you have regarding them, I'm sure we can be of more help. Otherwise, check the manufacturer's website, as it specifies where each product is suitable. This makes sense because they develop products specifically for certain purposes and don't just put anything on the market without a reason.

On my Golf IV, the glow plug light illuminates briefly (approximately 2 seconds) even when the engine is warm.
There's nothing wrong with the drive.
Does this indicate a problem, or is it harmless?

Why do all the other warning lights illuminate briefly when the ignition is turned on?



Furthermore, can I also use ceramic glow plugs or not?

If you're referring to GSK-3, then no, not at all. (IIRC - If I Recall Correctly)

I'll need to take a closer look at that next week...


CU Gremlin.

@Jan6K
Yes, I know that being able to read and write is always an advantage!

If this is just a self-test by the MSG (Message Service Group), then I'm relieved.
But the instruction manual says something different.

Quote: Golf Owner's Manual (Section 3.1)
Page 14, point 5 (preheating system), fourth paragraph.

When the engine is at its operating temperature, the preheating indicator light does not illuminate – the engine can be started immediately.

and: See pages 131 and 132 for information on diesel engines.

After turning the ignition to the 'on' position, the required preheating time is indicated by a preheat indicator light that is controlled by the coolant temperature – see page 14.

Starting the engine when it is already warm

The preheating indicator light is not illuminated; the engine can be started immediately.

Quote end

Label on the back of the booklet.
Golf - Operation/Instructions.
text
german 5.99
201.551.1JB.00



@matthiasTDI96

Okay, I have to admit a mistake; I disregarded rules 4 and 5 .
It's a Volkswagen Golf IV TDI manufactured in 1999 with 90 horsepower.

I used the search function, but it only gives me results for general keywords like 'glow plug' or 'warm engine.'
Only the preheating lights flash during operation; they do not illuminate when starting the engine with a warm motor.

Where in the instructions does it mention the MSG?



Regarding the spark plugs:
I don't care which one it is, as long as they fit and reduce the preheating time.

Golf User Manual, German, 03.01 - 221.551.GOB.00

On page 17, in the "Cockpit" section, under point 5 "Glow Plug System": If a fault occurs in the MSG (Main Service Generator), it will be indicated by the illumination of the glow plug control lamp.

As always, paying close attention is worthwhile.

That would probably be clarified then; otherwise, please see Gremlins' response.

Okay then, happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

So, that's the case with every Volkswagen Golf IV.
Only the passages mentioned above made me quite uneasy.

Apparently, VW has made quite a few changes to the controls.
I only saw a flashing light while driving => straight to the workshop.