AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

When the ignition switch is placed in the START position, a discrete signal is supplied to the Body Control Module (BCM) notifying it that the ignition is in the START position. Common causes include Faulty Starter Relay, Starter Relay harness is open or shorted, Starter Relay circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Starter Relay, Starter Relay harness is open or shorted, Starter Relay circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 453

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 15, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description

When the ignition switch is placed in the START position, a discrete signal is supplied to the Body Control Module (BCM) notifying it that the ignition is in the START position. The BCM then sends a message to the Engine Control Module (ECM) that a crank has been requested. The ECM then verifies that the clutch pedal is depressed, or the transmission is in Park/Neutral. If it is, the ECM then supplies 12 V to the control circuit of the starter relay. When this occurs, battery voltage is supplied through the switch of the starter relay to the starter solenoid. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects improper voltage on the control circuit of the starter relay.

OBDII Code P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Faulty Starter Relay
Starter Relay harness is open or shorted
Starter Relay circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0616 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0616 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

P0616 indicates a "Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage," meaning the vehicle's PCM has detected a low voltage issue in the starter relay control circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0616 in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include difficulty starting the vehicle, a no-start condition, the starter not engaging, or intermittent starting issues.

3. What causes the P0616 code to appear in a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common causes include a faulty starter relay, damaged wiring or connectors in the starter relay circuit, a weak battery, or a malfunctioning PCM.

4. Can a weak battery trigger the P0616 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Yes, a weak or discharged battery can result in insufficient voltage to the starter relay circuit and trigger the P0616 code.

5. How do I diagnose the P0616 code on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Start by checking the battery voltage, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, testing the starter relay, and verifying the PCM is functioning properly.

6. Is it safe to drive my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado with a P0616 code?

Driving with a P0616 code is not recommended, as it can lead to starting issues and leave you stranded if the vehicle fails to start.

7. How do I fix the P0616 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing a faulty starter relay, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, charging or replacing the battery, or reprogramming the PCM if necessary.

8. How much does it cost to repair the P0616 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repair costs can vary, but replacing a starter relay typically costs $50â€“$150, while addressing wiring issues or PCM problems may cost more depending on labor and parts.

9. Can a faulty PCM cause the P0616 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Yes, a malfunctioning PCM can fail to properly control the starter relay circuit and trigger the P0616 code, but this is less common compared to other causes.

10. Do I need a professional mechanic to fix the P0616 code on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

While some issues like checking the battery or replacing the starter relay can be done by DIYers, diagnosing and repairing wiring or PCM problems may require a professional mechanic.