P0617
Starter Relay Circuit High
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The P0617 code indicates that the PCM has detected higher-than-expected voltage in the starter relay circuit. The 'High' designation means the circuit has more voltage than it should, which typically means the starter relay is being kept energized when it shouldn't be. This is the opposite problem from P0616 (low) and can actually be more dangerous because it can cause the starter to remain engaged after the engine starts.
If the starter stays engaged after the engine fires, you'll hear a loud grinding or whirring noise from the starter area. This is the starter gear still spinning against the engine's flywheel, and it can quickly damage both the starter motor and the flywheel ring gear. You may also notice a burning smell if the starter overheats. If you experience this, turn off the engine immediately and address the problem before restarting.
The most common culprit is a starter relay with welded or stuck internal contacts — replace the relay first as it's inexpensive and easy to swap. Also inspect the ignition switch to make sure it properly returns from the Start position to the Run position. If you have an aftermarket remote start system, it could be the source of the problem. Check all wiring in the starter relay circuit for any shorts to power. Because a stuck-on starter can cause expensive damage to the starter and flywheel, this code should be addressed promptly.
Severity
Symptoms
- •Starter continues to engage after the engine has started (grinding noise)
- •Check engine light illuminated
- •Intermittent no-start or difficult starting
- •Burning smell from the starter area if it stays engaged too long
- •Starter motor may overheat and eventually fail
Likely Causes
Internal contacts in the starter relay can weld together or stick closed due to wear or electrical arcing, keeping the starter circuit energized even after the engine starts. This is a common failure mode for aging relays.
A wire in the relay control circuit that has shorted to a power source will keep the relay energized regardless of PCM commands, resulting in a continuously high voltage reading.
If the ignition switch mechanism fails to return from the 'Start' position to the 'Run' position, it will continue to send power through the starter relay circuit, causing high voltage.
The PCM's internal transistor or driver that controls the starter relay ground may have failed in a way that keeps the relay energized, or the PCM may be incorrectly reading high voltage due to an internal monitoring fault.
An improperly installed or malfunctioning aftermarket remote start system can apply continuous voltage to the starter relay circuit.
Estimated Cost
Professional Repair
Includes parts + labor
Common Fixes
- Replace the starter relay (check for welded or stuck contacts)
- Inspect the starter relay circuit wiring for shorts to power sources
- Replace the ignition switch if it fails to spring back from Start to Run
- Check and repair or remove any aftermarket remote start systems
- Test the starter motor and replace if damaged from prolonged engagement