0281003038 Compatible with Volkswagen/Audi 2.0L TDI Glow Plug Relay Controller 038907281D, 03L907281 – Fits Jetta 06, 09–14; Golf 10–14; Jetta SportWagen 2010–2014; Passat 2014–2015; A3 2010–2013

Glow Plug Relay/Controller – 038907281DThis 12V diesel glow plug control module manages pre-heating and after-glow for efficient cold starts on select North American 2.0L TDI vehicles. Position: engine compartment (fuse/relay area).Key FeaturesDirect-fit control of glow plug timing to improve cold-start reliability and reduce warning-light issues.Engine-bay mounting for quick access and straightforward replacement.Supersession-aware: OE 038907281D; supersedes 03L907281.OE & Cross ReferencesOE Number: 038907281D (supersedes 03L907281)Common supplier references: Compatible with Bosch 0 281 003 038 (0281003038) and 0281003083 (verify by VIN/engine code)Compatibility (North America)Compatible with Volkswagen Jetta TDI: 2006 (VIN > 1K-6-617332), 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014Compatible with Volkswagen Golf TDI: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014Compatible with Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014Compatible with Volkswagen Passat TDI: 2014, 2015Compatible with Audi A3 TDI: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013Installation NotesInstalls in the engine-compartment fuse/relay carrier; transfer original fasteners.For late-2006 BRM and 2009+ common-rail models, some vehicles require an ECU software update when installing the updated controller (per OEM campaigns/TSBs).Helpful ComplementsGlow plugs (e.g., 03L905061L for 2.0L TDI applications listed). Replacing plugs with the controller helps ensure consistent starting performance.Always confirm part number and VIN-specific fitment before purchase.

• Spec & OE references — 12V glow plug controller/module for compatible 2.0L TDI diesel applications; manages pre-heat/after-glow; engine-compartment mounted. Interchange/OE: 038907281D (supersedes 03L907281); verify by VIN/engine code and match the number printed on your old unit. Bosch catalog cross-references commonly seen include 0 281 003 038 (0281003038) and 0 281 003 083 (0281003083) (revision varies by application).
• Operation & install location — Mounts in the engine-compartment fuse/relay area (exact position varies by model). Restores proper glow-plug preheat/after-glow control when the original module fails; symptoms may include a flashing glow plug light, hard cold starts, and related fault codes.
• Service note (keep compliant) — For some compatible 2.0L TDI applications, OEM service procedures may also include an ECM/software update when replacing the glow plug controller; follow the repair manual/TSB for your VIN.
• Fitment — Compatible with Volkswagen Jetta TDI (2.0L diesel, engine-compartment module): Compatible with 2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI (from chassis/VIN 1K-6-617332); Compatible with 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 Volkswagen Jetta TDI.Fitment — Compatible with Volkswagen Golf TDI (engine-compartment module): Compatible with 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 Volkswagen Golf TDI.
• Fitment — Compatible with Volkswagen SportWagen TDI (engine-compartment module): Compatible with 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 Volkswagen SportWagen TDI.Fitment — Compatible with Volkswagen Passat TDI (engine-compartment module): Compatible with 2014, 2015 Volkswagen Passat TDI (always confirm by VIN/part number before purchase).Fitment — Compatible with Audi A3 TDI: Compatible with 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 Audi A3 TDI.
• Recommended complementary items — For a complete glow-system refresh, consider replacing glow plugs at the same time to reduce repeat cold-start faults. Common-rail 2.0L TDI applications often reference OE 03L905061L, but confirm by VIN/engine code before purchase.