AutoCodes – GMC – P0616 GMC

P0616 GMC 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 GMC 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 632

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

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 GMC 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 GMC - Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0616 GMC Code - Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0616 GMC?

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 GMC?

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 GMC 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 GMC code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0616 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific GMC Models

P0616 2014 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0616 2015 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0616 2016 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0616 2017 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage
P0616 2018 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage

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 GMC Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0616 mean on a GMC vehicle?

P0616 indicates a low voltage issue in the starter relay control circuit, which affects the vehicle's ability to start.

2. What are common symptoms of code P0616 in a GMC?

Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, intermittent no-start conditions, and possible warning lights on the dashboard.

3. What causes the P0616 code on a GMC?

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

4. Can a weak battery trigger code P0616 on a GMC?

Yes, insufficient voltage from a weak or failing battery can lead to this code being set.

5. How can I diagnose code P0616 on my GMC?

Start by checking the battery voltage, inspecting the starter relay, and examining wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to test circuit continuity.

6. Is it safe to drive with the P0616 code on a GMC?

While the vehicle may still drive if it starts, the risk of a no-start condition makes addressing this code promptly important.

7. Can a faulty PCM cause the P0616 code in a GMC?

Yes, a malfunctioning PCM can fail to properly control the starter relay, leading to this code.

8. How do you fix code P0616 on a GMC?

Repairs may involve replacing the starter relay, repairing damaged wiring, ensuring connections are secure, or replacing the battery if necessary.

9. How much does it cost to fix the P0616 code on a GMC?

Repair costs can vary, ranging from $50 for a new relay to several hundred dollars if wiring or PCM replacement is required.

10. Can a damaged starter motor cause code P0616 on a GMC?

While uncommon, issues with the starter motor itself can sometimes affect the circuit and contribute to this code.

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