How is fault code P0616 fixed?

A typical diagnostic sequence used by mechanics, provided here for educational reference only. Diagnostic work should be performed by a qualified mechanic with the appropriate tools and training. 1. Pull the relay and inspect it, the socket, and the surrounding fusebox for corrosion, melted plastic or green crust on the pins. A surprising number of these are solved right here before a meter comes out 2. Swap the suspected relay for an identical one from another circuit, fuel pump or horn relays are often the same part. If it cranks, you've found it 3. Back-probe the relay control terminal and check the voltage with the start commanded, you're looking for somewhere in the 5V to 12V range. A low or absent reading confirms the circuit fault 4. Check earth continuity from the relay back to the chassis, you want under 0.1 ohms. Anything higher and you've got a duff earth dragging the signal down 5. Wiggle-test and inspect the loom between the PCM and relay for chafing, breaks or corroded connectors, paying attention to anywhere it crosses a metal edge 6. If the relay, earth and wiring all check out, the PCM output driver is the remaining suspect, and that's where you book it in rather t

Starter Relay Circuit Low

Jump to the fix

Severity

Medium

Can I keep driving?

Usually drivable, but get it diagnosed without delay.

First step

A typical diagnostic sequence used by mechanics, provided here for educational reference only. Diagnostic work should be performed by a qualified mechanic with the appropriate tools and training. 1. Pull the relay and inspect it, the socket, and the surrounding fusebox for corrosion, melted plastic or green crust on the pins. A surprising number of these are solved right here before a meter comes out 2.

PPowertrain
0Generic code
6Computer Output
16Sequence number

What does it mean?

P0616 is a Powertrain (engine, transmission, fuel system) fault code. It indicates: Starter Relay Circuit Low . This is a standardised OBD-II code. The technical definition is the same regardless of the make or model of vehicle, although specific causes and symptoms can vary between vehicles.

Symptoms

Likely causes

How to fix it

Codes From the Same System

All Fault Codes

Related Similar Codes

This information follows the generic OBD-II definition and does not replace a vehicle-specific diagnosis. The severity rating is rule-based; an authorised diagnostic reading is required for a definitive answer.