P0617 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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Problematic engine start-ups and delayed starts along with engine stalling and not starting at all and Check Engine Light getting illuminated on the dashboard? These indicate towards faults in relation to the starting system of the vehicle causing OBD code P0617 getting stored and flashed in the Powertrain Control Module.

OBD code P0617 is associated with the Starter Relay Circuit and in most circumstances the vehicle will not start. When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a malfunction within the starter relay circuit, also known as the ignition switch circuit. Several codes can be set when the PCM detects improper signals within the starter relay circuit based on the specific malfunction. The purpose of the Starter Relay Circuit is to provide a power source to the starter to crank the engine and start the vehicle. Based on the specific vehicle and the drivetrain configuration several components are involved in this process. This circuit starts at the battery and includes the ignition switch, fuses, starter solenoid, starter relay and various safety devices such as clutch position sensors and neutral safety switches. Code P0617 is set by the PCM when it detects a high voltage situation within the starter relay circuit.

What causes this problem with the Starter Relay Circuit High?

• Corroded or damaged battery cable
• Faulty or damaged wiring
• Faulty Powertrain Control Module
• Defective starter
• Faulty ignition switch
• Defective starter relay
• Faulty starter solenoid
• Blown fuse or fuse-able link
• Corroded or damaged connector

1. Powertrain Control Module - There can be some issues with the Powertrain Control Module due to which you may see P0617 code appearing over and over again. Visit us to buy best quality PCM components and replace them now!
2. Starter - Faulty starter has to be replaced immediately as it will lead to engine not starting and delayed starts. Buy new starter and replace it now!
3. Starter Relay - Examine and replace faulty starter relay as it will cause performance issues and the vehicle will be difficult to start. Buy new starter relay now!
4. Starter Solenoid - Starter solenoid, if faulty should be replace at first instance. Buy new starter solenoid from us!
5. Starting System Fuse - Replacing faulting fuses is the most common solution to such OBD code error. Buy new fuses from us now!
6. Car Battery & Cables - Faulty wiring and cables must be replaced immediately as they can cause performance issues. Buy new batteries and cables now!
7. Starter Motor - Faulty starter motor should be repaired or replaced at first instance. Buy new starter motor now!
8. Starter Connector - Check for connectors being faulty or damaged and replace if damaged or corroded. Buy new starter connector now!
9. Ignition Switch - Sometimes the ignition switch can be at fault of this OBD code error and might need immediate replacement. Buy new ignition switches now!

Willing to know some common symptoms of OBD Code P0617? Your wish is our demand. Have a look at them below:

Common Symptoms

• Engine not starts
• Sporadic no-crank occurrences
• Check Engine Light illuminated

We have listed out some ways which would help you to correct the occurrence of OBD Code P0617. They are mentioned here as follows:

• Replacement of faulty battery cables or cable ends
• Replacement of defective starter solenoids or starter motors
• Repairing poor electrical connection in the starter relay circuit
• Replacing or repairing open or shorted starter relay harness
• Faulty ignition switch replacement
• Replacement of blown fuses
• Replacement of bad starter relay
• Repair of any circuits which are shorted or open
• Replacement of defective battery

There is no need to get strained if your OBD Code is still flashing up as we are here at your service. Have a look at our superior variety of Starter Relay, Starter, starter motor, ignition switch, starter solenoid, Blown fuse, connector, battery cable, PCM and many more. Now all your problems would vanish within no time.

If you want to easily diagnose this fault code, then all you have to do is to follow the steps which are mentioned below:

• A suitable OBD-II scanner (or code reader) and a digital volt/ohmmeter will be most helpful in performing a successful diagnosis. An infrared thermometer with a laser pointer will also be helpful. Begin with a visual inspection of all wiring and connectors. Repair or replace damaged, disconnected, shorted, or corroded wiring, connectors, and components as necessary.
• Always retest the system after repairs are completed to ensure success. If all system wiring, connectors, and components (Including fuses) appear to be in normal working order, connect the scanner (or code reader) to the diagnostic connector and record all stored codes and freeze frame data.
• After the codes are cleared, test drive the vehicle to see if the code returns. If the code fails to immediately return, you may have an intermittent condition.
• The ignition switch (not the cylinder but the electrical switch which the cylinder engages) is used to activate the secondary circuit (in this case, via the starter relay) which causes the contacts of the starter solenoid to close.
• With the solenoid contacts closed, battery voltage is supplied to the starter motor, causing it to spin and engage the engine flywheel, thus cranking the engine. Also check for the battery cables and battery cable ends. Clean or replace cables and ends as required. Make sure that the battery is fully charged and then perform a battery load and starting/charging system test.
• Replace faulty components as needed. If the battery and starting/charging system are normal, then test system fuses and fusible links. Replace faulty components as needed and retest the system. If the problem persists, test the starter end of the battery cable for battery voltage.
• Make sure that the battery ground cable is securely attached to the engine block by testing the engine block ground and starter housing ground. If the starter motor housing has no ground, repair the ground cable or connection as required.
• The secondary circuit should have battery voltage with the ignition switch in the start position, only. If there is no voltage on the secondary wire, move your testing to focus on the starter relay.
• Test the input circuits of the starter relay and compare your findings with the manufacturer’s specifications. If the input readings coincide with manufacturer’s specs, and there is no output voltage signal, replace the starter relay. If there is no ignition switch input signal at the starter relay, suspect a faulty ignition switch.
• Test the PCM input signal from the starter relay and repair open or shorted wiring as necessary. If the PCM input signal is present, suspect a faulty PCM.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0617 Code

Always tale help of a qualified technician with experience to counter the OBD code errors. Use professional factory grade scanning and diagnostic tools to diagnose this problem.

• Missing the diagnosis steps leading to misdiagnosis and error to return.
• Though the most common cause is the starting system, it will not be a necessary problem for all vehicles. Thus, proper inspection needs to be done.
• It is important to follow the steps so unnecessary repairs are not performed wasting time and money. Never forget to check for faulty or damaged wiring and connections as they can be the reason for the OBD error code and can be a cheap solution to the problem.

P0615 - Starter Relay Circuit

P0616 - Starter Relay Circuit Low