Powertrain, generic (extended)

P26F3 Starter Relay B Stuck Off

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

P26F3 reports that starter relay B does not switch through when commanded, so the start sequence that depends on it cannot complete. It is the one code of this group with a public manufacturer case: an FCA STAR case for the Jeep Gladiator, released in March 2022, describes a check engine light and a no-start with P26F3, P00FD and P0562 stored, caused by loose power cables at the power control relay; tightening them to specification was the repair. That points to a missing supply on the load side rather than a failed relay. Otherwise burnt relay contacts or a coil that no longer pulls in are typical. P26F2 covers the opposite case, a relay B that will not release, and P26E4 to P26E6 its control circuit.

Likely causes

Loose power cable at the relay or power distribution unit
Burnt contacts in starter relay B
Weak battery or low system voltage so the relay does not pull in
Open coil in relay B

Symptoms

  • Check engine light
  • Engine does not start or crank
  • Further codes for low system voltage or battery state

Repair estimate

DifficultyEasyDIY possible
Parts and labour€0–400
Time0.3–2 h

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

Parts involved

starter relay bstarter motor b

Related codes

P26F2P26F1P26E4P0562P00FD

References: static.nhtsa.gov, static.nhtsa.gov, law.cornell.edu.