AutoCodes – Honda – P0616 Honda

P0616 Honda Code - Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The starter control system prevents the starter from accidentally activating when the shift position is not in the P or N position/mode, or when the engine is running. Common causes include Faulty Starter Cut Relay 2 (Built into the Relay Circuit Board), Starter Cut Relay 2 harness is open or shorted, Starter Cut Relay 2 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 Honda indicates Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Starter Cut Relay 2 (Built into the Relay Circuit Board), Starter Cut Relay 2 harness is open or shorted, Starter Cut Relay 2 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 919

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 Jan 03, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0616 Honda Description

The starter control system prevents the starter from accidentally activating when the shift position is not in the P or N position/mode, or when the engine is running. If the vehicle is turned mistakenly while the shift position is not in P or N or while the engine is running, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) will stop power to the starter cut relays. However, cranking to return from an auto idle stop does not correspond to this. In this system, two starter cut relays are connected in series (starter cut relay 1, starter cut relay 2) to prevent the starter from running continuously due to a starter cut relay malfunction. Also, a diagnosis line (START DIAG) is connected to monitor the voltage between the starter cut relay 1 and starter cut relay 2. Based on the diagnosis line signals, the PCM detects an OPEN malfunction of the diagnosis line, an ON malfunction of starter cut relay 1, and an ON malfunction of starter cut relay 2. The PCM also equipped with return signal circuits of starter cut relay 1 and starter cut relay 2 to detect an OFF malfunction. If the voltage of the diagnosis line (START DIAG) is a specified voltage for a set time when the starter is OFF (STS OFF), the PCM detects an ON malfunction of starter cut relay 2 and stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

OBDII Code P0616 Honda - Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0616 Honda Code - Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0616 Honda?

Faulty Starter Cut Relay 2 (Built into the Relay Circuit Board)
Starter Cut Relay 2 harness is open or shorted
Starter Cut Relay 2 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P0616 Honda?

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 Honda 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 Honda code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

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

Information for Specific Honda Models

P0616 2016 Honda CR-V — Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage
P0616 2017 Honda CR-V — Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage
P0616 2018 Honda CR-V — Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage
P0616 2019 Honda CR-V — Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage
P0616 2020 Honda CR-V — Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage
P0616 2021 Honda CR-V — Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis 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 Honda Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0616 in a Honda related to the Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage?

Common symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, intermittent starting issues, and the engine not cranking when the key is turned.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P0616 in a Honda to trigger?

The code P0616 in a Honda is typically triggered by a fault in the starter cut relay circuit, specifically low voltage detected in the circuit.

3. How can I diagnose the Starter Cut Relay Diagnosis Circuit Low Voltage issue in my Honda?

A diagnostic scan tool can help pinpoint the exact cause of the low voltage issue in the starter cut relay circuit. Checking the wiring, connections, and relay itself is also recommended.

4. Are there any common repair tips for fixing OBDII code P0616 in a Honda?

Repairing the wiring harness, replacing damaged connectors, or replacing the starter cut relay are common repair steps to address the low voltage issue causing code P0616.

5. Can I still drive my Honda with OBDII code P0616 present?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with code P0616 present as it can lead to starting issues and potential safety concerns if the vehicle fails to start unexpectedly.

6. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code P0616 in my Honda without addressing the underlying issue?

Resetting the code without fixing the low voltage issue in the starter cut relay circuit may temporarily clear the warning light, but the problem will likely reoccur, causing starting problems.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0616 in a Honda?

The cost of repairing OBDII code P0616 in a Honda can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0616 in a Honda, or is professional help recommended?

While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to diagnose and repair the issue causing code P0616, it is often recommended to seek professional help, especially for complex electrical problems.

9. Will OBDII code P0616 cause any long-term damage to my Honda if left unresolved?

Continued driving with code P0616 can potentially lead to further damage to the starter cut relay circuit and other related components, impacting the vehicle's overall starting system.

10. How can I prevent OBDII code P0616 from appearing in my Honda in the future?

Regularly inspecting and maintaining the starter cut relay circuit, checking the electrical connections, and addressing any starting issues promptly can help prevent code P0616 from reoccurring in your Honda.