P0616 - STARTER RELAY CIRCUIT LOW

The starter relay is responsible for delivering various electrical signals to the starter, in order for the starter to facilitate the ignition of the engine, thereby starting the vehicle. The circuit of this relay is composed of the ignition switch, battery, sensors, fuse, and starter solenoids.

If the Powertrain Control Module detects problems in the operation of those that make up the starter relay circuit, a series of codes will be stored. In the case of the DTC P0616 OBDII code, it indicates that a low voltage condition has been found in the starter relay circuit.

• Check Engine lamp illuminated.
• Difficult to start the engine.

The factors for which the P0616 OBD2 fault code is set are:

• The battery charge level may not be sufficient.
• There may be a blown fuse in the circuit.
• The circuit wires or connectors may have been damaged.
• Possibly the ignition switch is defective.
• The starter solenoid may be damaged.

To troubleshoot the P0616 OBDII diagnostic code you must do the following:

• To begin with, you should consult the TSB (Technical Service Bulletins) provided by the manufacturer.
• Check that the battery has the proper charge level. If the battery voltage is not adequate, make the necessary corrections.
• Inspect the components of the circuit to make sure that the cables, connectors, and fuses are in optimal conditions for a good performance of the same one. If they have damage that affects the stability of the circuit, proceed to repair or, if necessary, replace them.
• Using a DVOM, test that the different components of the relay do not have inconsistencies in terms of electrical signals. The values you obtain should be compared with those specified by the manufacturer and, if there are large differences, make the appropriate repairs.