Fault code P0616 is called “Starter Relay Circuit Low” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P0616
OBD-II fault code P0616 is a generic fault code defined as “starter relay circuit signal low”. It is set when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects abnormal voltage in any of the circuits related to the starter relay.
The starter relay is a switch that closes the high current circuit to supply battery voltage to the starter when it is activated by the low current circuit. The advantage of this approach is that the ignition switch does not have to withstand extremely high amperage. Which are required for some components to work effectively.
The relay requires an input voltage that is applied when the ignition key is turned to the start position. When the input circuit closes, the solenoid is activated and the battery voltage is transmitted through contacts directly to the starter solenoid. This actuates the electric motor to crank the engine.
When the ignition key is released, the input voltage is interrupted, de-energizing the solenoid. The spring-loaded contacts then return to the open position.
Depending on the application, the starter relay may have more than four contacts. In such designs, one pin is for the input voltage and the other pin is for the input voltage output back to the battery minus or ground.
Of the two remaining contacts, one is connected to the battery via a fuse and the other to the starter solenoid. If there are five pins, another pin is usually used for the feedback signal to the PCM.
Therefore, if a problem is detected while monitoring the starter relay circuit, code P0616 will be stored and the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may illuminate. Depending on the perceived severity of the fault, it may take several failure cycles for the MIL to illuminate.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P0616 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- The “Check engine” control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a fault).
- The engine will not start.
- There is a sound from the starter, without the engine cranking.
The severity of the stored code P0616 can vary greatly, it depends on the specific symptoms. It may just be a burning malfunction light, or the car will stop starting altogether.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P0616 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- Faulty ignition switch.
- Faulty starter relay.
- Defective starter solenoid.
- Open or short circuit in wiring harness.
- Loose or damaged connectors.
- Poor grounding is a common cause.
- Low charge level or fully discharged battery.
- Blown fuses.
- Defective starter.
- Sometimes the cause is a faulty PCM module or programming error.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0616
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0616:
- Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool. To find out when and under what circumstances error P0616 appeared.
- Clear the error codes from the computer memory and test drive the vehicle to see if the fault appears again.
- If the error code appears again, visually inspect the electrical wires and connectors.
- Visually inspect and test the starter.
- If necessary, repair or replace the starter and any defective wires.
- Check the fuses and the battery.
- If there are no defects, check the PCM module itself and its software part.
Diagnose and repair of problems
In order to eliminate the P0616 fault, all stored data and error codes must be read with an OBD-II scan tool. This information may be useful if an intermittent fault is later diagnosed.
If there are no additional codes, the first thing to do is to check the battery to determine its state of charge and overall performance. If the battery is discharged or damaged, recharge or replace it.
Checking the wiring
After checking the battery, visually inspect all wiring associated with the starter. If necessary, repair or replace to ensure effective load transfer.
If no visible signs of shorts or other damage are found, use a voltmeter to check resistance and ground. Replace if necessary to ensure that all electrical values are within the limits specified by the manufacturer.
Also locate any fuses that are in any way connected to the starting system. After checking, replace any damaged or suspect fuses.
Testing the starter
If all the wiring is checked, you need to test the starter itself with a multimeter. In most cases, it is the defective starter or its components that cause error P0616.
If the defect in the starter is confirmed, replace it with a new or rebuilt one, as it is almost always more cost-effective than a repair. However, make sure that the unit being replaced is identical to the original in all respects, including mounting brackets and features.
After replacement, start the engine and monitor the indicator light on the dashboard to make sure the starter is working properly. The warning light should go out within a few seconds.
You can also measure the system voltage and it should be between 14.2 and 14.8 volts. Allow the vehicle to run at least one full drive cycle before rescanning the system. Most likely there will be no P0616 error, but sometimes additional clearing with a special scanner is necessary.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P0616 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Acura
- Buick
- Cadillac
- Chevrolet
- Citroen
- Ford
- GMC
- Honda
- Hyundai (Solaris, i10)
- Infiniti
- Kia (Rio)
- Mazda
- Mercedes-Benz
- Nissan
- Peugeot
- Saab (9-3)
- Subaru
- Toyota
- Volvo
- GAZelle
- LADA (Granta, Kalina, Priora)
- VAZ
Fault code P0616 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0615, P0617.
