What is P0616 fault code and what does it mean? What is the definition of Starter Relay Circuit low Voltage? How do I fix the P0616 fault code What are the causes and symptoms of the P0616 error code?
What is the P0616 fault code? What does it signify?
If the powertrain controller module (PCM), detects voltage signals from the starter circuit, also known by the ignition switch circuit below manufacturer’s parameters, P0616 will trigger a code. This circuit is also responsible for P0615 and other fault codes.
The starter relay, also known as PNP relay or Park/Neutral (or PNP relay), circuit provides power to the starter to turn on the vehicle. This process involves many components, depending on the vehicle’s configuration and features. This circuit begins at the batteries and includes various safety components, such as the ignition switch and fuses, starter solenoid or starter relay, starter relays, clutch position sensors, neutral safety switches, and starter solenoid.
The starter relay should be located in the “Off” Position to stop the vehicle’s starting when it is in gear. The transmission should be in position “On” Position when the car is in neutral or parked. If the relay is not functioning properly, the PCM will indicate this and set a fault code. When the voltage signal from starter relay circuit drops below the specified parameters, P0616 will be set.
Vehicles susceptible to the P0616 fault code include but aren’t limited to: various models of Proton and Mercedes-Benz, Kia or Toyota, Suzuki, Hyundai. Jeep, Mitsubishi. Dodge, Chrysler, Saturn. Honda. Ford.
What causes the P0616 Fault code?
Here are some reasons why P0616 should be set.
- Defective ignition switch
- – Defective starter relay
- – Damaged or broken wires to the starter relay
- – Connectors that are damaged, rusty, or missing
- – Blown starter fuse
- – Batteries that have become corroded or are defective
- – A dead or weak battery
- – Defective solenoid or starter (A faulty solenoid typically presents the same symptoms of a faulty relay).
- Low system voltage (one/more of the fault codes: P0560,P0561 or P0562 are set)
- – A PCM is not working properly or has to be reprogrammed. Very unlikely.
What are the symptoms for P0616 Malfunction Codes?
These symptoms may be present in vehicles with code P0616.
- – Illumination for the check engine light
- – The starter might not turn on at all, or it may only press intermittently.
- – Pressing the starter can be very difficult
- Starter motor makes clicking sound
How to Fix the P0616 Fault Code
Drivers don’t want P0616 to indicate that their vehicle has a problem. They consider this code temporary and a PCM malfunction. The PCM is not usually the problem in such cases. This code is often caused by a problem with the starter, battery, or connectors.
It is a common mistake when diagnosing code 0616. This is because you try to diagnose the problem too quickly. Sometimes, the mechanic will assume that the problem is with the starter motor and repair it. This may not always be true. In some older vehicles, the issue is not with the starter but with the voltage supply.
The following repairs may be able to resolve the P0616 fault code:
- – Repair or replacement for damaged, melted or broken, open, or short-circuited wiring
- – Replacing weak, rusty or loose electrical connectors
- – Replacing an exploded fuse
- – Repairing or cleaning out corrosion on cables and terminals
- – Replacing a weak or dead battery
- – Replacing the defective starter relay
- Repairing an ignition switch that is not working properly
- – Replacing a damaged solenoid or starter
- – Reprogramming or replacement for a defective PCM
How serious is the P0616 Fault code?
It is a bad sign to have codes on your vehicle. The P0616 fault code can appear to be a good sign that your vehicle is in good condition. This false sense of security is misleading. After you set this code, your mechanic must inspect your vehicle. If it doesn’t, it might let you down.
