2251 real customers worldwide
Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
Issue with the Starter Relay Circuit
What does that signify?
This is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that is applicable to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer). This includes vehicles from various manufacturers such as Cadillac, Nissan, Chevy, Buick, Honda, Acura, Infiniti, Peugeot, Toyota, GMC, Chevrolet, Mazda, Ford, Subaru, etc. While it is a generic code, the specific repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration of the vehicle.
The P0615 trouble code is associated with the Starter Relay Circuit, and in most cases, the vehicle will not start. When the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a malfunction in the starter relay circuit, also known as the ignition switch circuit, it can set several codes based on the specific malfunction. The most common codes associated with this circuit are P0615, P0616, and P0617.
The purpose of the Starter Relay Circuit is to provide power to the starter in order to crank the engine and start the vehicle. This process involves several components, depending on the specific vehicle and drivetrain configuration. The circuit starts at the battery and includes the ignition switch, fuses, starter solenoid, starter relay, and various safety devices such as clutch position sensors and neutral safety switches.
Code P0615 is set by the PCM when it detects a general malfunction in the starter relay circuit.
Starter relay in a Ford:
What is the severity of this DTC?
The severity of this code can vary greatly, ranging from just an illuminated check engine light on a vehicle that starts and runs, to a vehicle that will not start at all.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P0615 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this P0615 code may include:
What are some P0615 troubleshooting steps?
The first step in the troubleshooting process for any malfunction is to research the Technical Service Bulletins (TSB’s) for the specific vehicle by year, model, and power plant. In some cases, this can save a lot of time by providing guidance in the right direction.
The second step is to consult the specific technical data for the vehicle to determine if a fuse is included in the starter relay circuit and check if it is blown, if applicable. If the fuse is good, you should inspect all the components associated with the starter relay circuit for any obvious damage. Perform a thorough visual inspection of the wiring for any defects such as scraping, rubbing, bare wires, or burn spots. Next, check the connectors and connections for security, corrosion, and damaged pins. This process should include all wiring connectors and connections to the battery, ignition switch, PCM, starter, starter relay, and starter solenoid.
Advanced Steps
The advanced steps are highly specific to the vehicle and require advanced equipment for accurate diagnosis. These procedures involve using a digital multimeter and referencing the specific technical data for the vehicle. Voltage requirements will vary based on the specific year and model of the vehicle.
Voltage Checks
The battery voltage should be around 12 volts, and the starter should have battery voltage when the ignition switch is in the start position. The presence of voltage without the starter engaging indicates a defective starter or starter solenoid. The absence of voltage indicates a faulty ignition switch or a wiring issue.
If this process reveals a lack of power source or ground, continuity testing may be necessary to check the integrity of the wiring, ignition switch, and other components. Continuity tests should always be performed with the power removed from the circuit, and the normal readings for wiring and connections should be 0 ohms of resistance unless otherwise specified by the technical data. Resistance or lack of continuity indicates faulty wiring that is either open or shorted and must be repaired or replaced.
What are some common repairs for this code?
Common mistakes may include:
Hopefully, the information in this article has been helpful in guiding you towards resolving the problem with your starter relay circuit fault code. This article is purely informational, and the specific technical data and service bulletins for your vehicle should always take precedence.
Professional Service
While we always recommend seeking professional mechanical assistance to address this issue, if that is not possible, we offer the option to permanently delete this specific DTC. All other codes will continue to be addressed. If you are interested in this option, please upload your ECU file to our portal.
