P0616 Starter Relay Circuit Low

P0616 points to a low condition in the starter relay circuit. The relay control or feedback voltage is below the expected range when monitored by the controller.

Code details

Generic OBD-II · P0

System: Computer
Code type: Generic (SAE / ISO controlled)
Standard: SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6

Diagnostic boundary

A diagnostic trouble code reports that a monitored test failed. It does not prove one specific part is bad, and manufacturer logic can add vehicle-specific conditions.

Do not bypass starter safety circuits while diagnosing P0616.

Symptoms of P0616

Check-engine light, sometimes with several unrelated codes at once.
Warning lights, a no-start, or intermittent electrical faults.
Communication or module-reset problems on a scan tool.

Common causes of P0616

Low battery voltage, poor grounds, corroded connectors, or blown fuses.
Wiring or network (CAN bus) faults between modules.
A module software/programming issue, or rarely a failed controller.

Useful checks before replacing parts

Check starter relay command, coil voltage, control circuit voltage, fuse feed, ground or driver control, start request status, and freeze-frame conditions.
Inspect for short-to-ground faults, open power feed, weak relay coil, corroded terminals, damaged wiring, and immobilizer or park-neutral inhibit inputs.
Measure the circuit while a start request is made to identify whether the low reading comes from power, ground, relay load, or driver control.

Related OBD-II codes

These nearby computer entries can help compare wording and pin down the fault area.