P0617
Starter Relay A Circuit High
Starting system
Generic OBD-II
High
What it means
P0617 means the ECM detected high voltage on the starter relay control circuit. Because this relay energises the starter, a fault here can cause a no-crank or no-start condition. It is most often a bad relay or a wiring problem, with the ECM being the least likely cause.
High
Can I keep driving? May not crank or start — if the engine won't turn over, don't keep trying; get the starter relay circuit checked.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Engine does not start
- No-crank condition (starter does not engage)
- Intermittent or delayed cranking
- Check-engine light on
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty starter relayLikely
- Corroded, open, or short-to-voltage wiring in the relay control circuitCommon
- Poor connection at the relay socket or groundCommon
- Failed engine control module (ECM), least likelyLess often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and confirm the relay control circuit reads high.
- Swap or bench-test the starter relay to rule it out (often interchangeable with another relay).
- Inspect the relay control wiring and connector for corrosion, opens, or a short to voltage.
- Verify the ECM is grounding the relay control circuit when start is commanded.
- Repair the wiring or replace the relay, then re-test starting.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0617?+
The concern here is starting, not driving. If the engine does start, it will run, but you risk a no-crank the next time. Fix the relay circuit before you get stranded.
Can I just clear P0617?+
Clearing won't help if the relay or wiring is faulty — the code returns and you may face a no-start. Repair the circuit first.
Related codes
Often seen with P0617
Read & clear P0617 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX