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DTC codes / P06xx · Computer and output circuits / P0617

P0617Starter Relay Circuit High

P0617 means the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an abnormally high voltage on the starter relay control circuit, which is the wire the PCM uses to command the relay on. The PCM expects that circuit to pull low when the relay is energized, so a high-voltage reading tells the module the circuit is open, shorted to power, or the relay coil is not loading it correctly.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaComputer and output circuits

Symptoms you may notice

  • The engine may not crank at all when you turn the key or press the start button.
  • The starter may crank weakly or intermittently, especially in cold or damp conditions.
  • A no-crank condition with a single click from the relay area is common.
  • The security or immobilizer light may stay on because the PCM will not authorize a start.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with the engine starting normally.
  • A remote start system may fail to operate even though manual starting works.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. A faulty starter relay with an open or high-resistance coil.
  2. Corroded, loose, or backed-out terminals at the relay socket or PCM connector.
  3. An open circuit in the control wire between the PCM and the starter relay.
  4. A short to battery voltage on the control wire, often from chafed insulation.
  5. A failed PCM driver for the starter relay circuit, though this is less common.
  6. Aftermarket alarm or remote start wiring that has been spliced into the starter circuit.
  7. A poor ground at the relay mounting point or at the PCM ground strap.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules and record freeze-frame data for P0617 before clearing anything.
  2. Inspect the starter relay, its socket, and the PCM connector for corrosion, looseness, or pushed pins.
  3. Test the relay coil resistance and compare it to the manufacturer's specification.
  4. With the relay removed, measure voltage on the control wire at the socket with the key on and during a crank request.
  5. Check the control wire for continuity to ground and for shorts to battery voltage along its full length.
  6. Verify the PCM ground and the relay ground are clean and tight before condemning the PCM.
  7. If the circuit and relay test good, perform a bidirectional scan-tool test of the starter relay output to confirm the PCM driver.

What a high starter relay reading really means

  • A high-voltage reading on this circuit usually means the PCM is not seeing the relay coil load, so an open coil or open wire is far more likely than a short to power.
  • A relay that clicks does not prove the coil is good, because a partially open coil can still pull in the armature while drawing too little current for the PCM to recognize.
  • Aftermarket remote start and alarm splices are a frequent hidden cause, especially when the fault appeared after electrical work or a stereo install.
  • The PCM may set P0617 as a consequence of a low or unstable battery voltage during cranking, so load-test the battery before chasing wiring.
  • On some vehicles the starter relay is controlled through a body control module or smart junction box, so the PCM code can point at a module that is not the PCM itself.

Can I keep driving with P0617?

If the engine still cranks and starts normally, you can drive the vehicle to a repair shop, but avoid repeated long crank attempts that could overheat the starter. If the engine will not crank at all, do not keep cycling the key, because you risk damaging the starter or relay and you will need a tow.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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