Powertrain, generic · Computer and auxiliary outputs

P0615 Starter Relay A Circuit

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modeNo

The engine module switches the starter relay coil through its own driver – GM petrol engines with 12 V stop-start use a low-side driver, the Saab 9-4X switches 12 V to the coil. CARB requires output components to be checked for open and short circuits. GM sets the codes after two trips on stop-start engines, while GM diesels (2016) and the Saab 9-4X store them without the check engine light. At Ford an active starter code blocks stop-start. P0615 is the open or general circuit fault: GM measures the driver output with the driver off and sets the code at 200 kΩ or more after 40 of 50 samples at 50 ms. Chrysler traced no-start cases with P0615 to a harness chafed or pinched at the engine mount near the starter. Short to ground and to voltage are P0616 and P0617; the start request input is P0512.

Likely causes

Starter relay faulty (coil open)
Control wire open, harness chafed or pinched, connector corroded
Relay ground, fuse or supply faulty
Driver in the engine module faulty

Symptoms

  • Engine does not crank
  • Stop-start not working
  • Intermittent starting problems
  • Check engine light only with some makers

Repair estimate

DifficultyEasyDIY possible
Parts and labour€15–300
Time0.3–2 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

starter relaystarter relay control circuitengine control module

Related codes

P0616P0617P26E4P26F1P0512

References: law.cornell.edu, gsi.ext.gm.com, gsi.ext.gm.com, saabwisonline.com.