Guide To P0817 OBD Error Code Solutions

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The Powertrain Control Module or the PCM sets this P0817 error code. In the vehicle there’s a starter disable circuit, which is also known as the “ignition interlock” or the “neutral safety switch”. The function of this is to interrupt the current flowing to the starter when the transmission is in gear and not in “park” or “neutral”, or if the clutch is not engaged on manual transmission status. When the PCM detects an abnormal level of current than what is specified by the manufacturer it will set P0817 error code. Once the code is stored the malfunction indicator lamp will also be illuminated.

The Powertrain Control Module or the PCM checks if the transmission in park or neutral before allowing the vehicle to crank up the speed. If the Transmission Control Module has not informed the PCM that it’s okay to crank then the P0817 code will be set.

What causes this problem with the Starter Disable Circuit?

• Failed Starter Disable Relay
• Fuses are blown or shorted
• Failure of the Starter Relay
• Failure of the Starter Motor or Solenoid
• Failure of the Battery Cable or Cable Ends/Clamps
• Circuits are open or shorted

1. Starter Disable Relay - Fix the P0817 code by repairing or replacing the relay.
2. Battery Fuse - Try to repair the fuse or opt for replacement.
3. Starter Relay - Check for the issues related to the starter relay and accordingly decide for repair or replacements. At Parts Avatar you can find high quality replacements compatible to your vehicle. Order online and have your order delivered to your doorstep within few days!
4. Starter Motor - As per diagnosis you can either repair the damages or opt for replacement.
5. Starter Solenoid - Replace the solenoid and get rid of the P0817 error, order online and avail free shipping on orders above CAD $99.
6. Starter Disable Circuits - All damaged circuits will have to be repaired or replaced based on the extent of damage, this may help resolve the P0817 code

Interested in knowing the symptoms to obd code P0817? If yes, then you have arrived at the right place. We at PartsAvatar have listed out few common symptoms associated with this fuel injector problem.

Common Symptoms

• Malfunction indicator light is illuminated
• Vehicle unable to start
• Vehicle exhibiting no crank condition.
  

After understanding the symptoms and few common causes behind the OBD error code, we are here to help you out in understanding the ways and means to correct the issue. To solve any issue, you need to follow certain steps, and to solve OBD error code P0817, you will need to

undergo the following replacements:

• Repair or replace the Primary battery cable
• Repair or replace the battery
• Repair or replace the starter disable relay

Apart from the fuel injector, you might need to undergo few more replacements. You might need Starter Disable Relay Failure, Blown Fuse, Starter Relay Failure, Starter Motor, Solenoid Failure, Open Circuits and many other parts. Where to get them from? Well, if you want quality parts, then we can prove to be your dream destination.

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

• Start off by doing a visual inspection of the battery cables and cable ends. If they are damaged repair them, if that’s not going to help, then replace them.
• Ensure that the battery is fully charged, perform a load and starting/charging test on the battery to see if it’s working fine. Compare the results to the manufacturer's specified ranges and replace any failed components as required.
• If you find that the battery and charging system exhibit no errors and are functioning fine, you can check the system fuses and fusible links and test them for any faults.
• First visually inspect the wiring and circuits for obvious damages like corrosion, shorted or blown wires and repair or replace them accordingly. If they all seem fine, you can proceed to checking the started end of the battery cable for voltage. Using the digital volt/ohmmeter or DVOM start checking with the ignition switch key turned to the start position.
• If you find that the voltage drops when the key is turned toward start, then you may have a problem with the battery cable or the battery cable connection.
• Check the ground connection of the starter, remember the starter is grounded by its own mounting bolts which are attached to the engine block. If your vehicle uses a starter relay as its secondary circuits, you will have to place the DVOM voltage end on the starter solenoid. Now find the small stud and retaining nut which is located at the rear of the solenoid, opposite the cable stud. Now place your DVOM probe there, and have someone or your assistance toggle the ignition switch from “start” position to “run” repeatedly.
• Be mindful that the secondary circuit should only have battery voltage when the ignition switch is in the start position. If you find that no voltage is present on the secondary wire, then you will now have to move on to the starter relay. Test the input circuit of the starter relay and compare it to the manufacturer’s factory specifications. If they are in sync with the manufacturer's specifications but there’s no output voltage signal you will have to replace the starter disable relay.
• If you find that there is no ignition switch input signal at the starter disable relay then the problem may be with the ignition switch. Keep in mind this refers only to the electrical portion and no the cylinder.
• If certain input signals don’t fall within the manufacturer's factory specifications then you will have to disconnect the relay connector and perform a continuity test, between the fuse panel and the connector. After checking repair or replace any open/shorted circuits and perform another test.
• Also test the PCMs input signal coming from the starter relay, accordingly repair or replace any shorted or open wires you may come across. PCM failure is rare, if you find that the input signal is present, then there is a chance of PCM failure. Fix it accordingly.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0817

• Replacing the starter instead of checking for the issues with the starter motors voltage supply and relay
• Diagnosing an issue with the PCM when PCM failure is extremely rare and shouldn’t be considered before fixing all other relevant issues first.

P0817 - Starter Disable Circuit

P081A - Starter Disable Circuit Low

P081B - Starter Disable Circuit High