AutoCodes – RAM – P0617 RAM

P0617 RAM Code - Starter Control Circuit High

Quick Answer

The starter relay is an electromechanical device that switches battery current to the pull-in coil of the starter solenoid when the ignition switch is turned to 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: P0617 RAM indicates Starter Control Circuit High.
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 858

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 31, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0617 RAM Description

The starter relay is an electromechanical device that switches battery current to the pull-in coil of the starter solenoid when the ignition switch is turned to the Start position. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects a short to voltage on the Starter Relay Control circuit for 0.5 seconds.

OBDII Code P0617 RAM - Starter Control Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0617 RAM Code - Starter Control Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0617 RAM?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0617 RAM?

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 P0617 RAM 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.

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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 P0617 RAM Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High?

- Common symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, intermittent starting issues, and in some cases, the engine may not start at all.

2. What are the potential causes of OBDII code P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High?

- The code P0617 can be caused by a faulty starter relay, damaged wiring in the starter control circuit, a malfunctioning starter motor, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High?

- To diagnose the issue, you can perform a visual inspection of the starter and its related wiring, test the starter relay, check for any loose connections, and use a multimeter to test for continuity in the circuit.

4. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High?

- If you have experience working on automotive electrical systems, you may be able to repair this code yourself by replacing the faulty starter relay, repairing damaged wiring, or addressing any other identified issues.

5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with this code present, as it can lead to potential starting issues or engine failure. It's best to address the problem promptly to avoid further damage.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High at a mechanic?

- The cost of repairing this code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the labor rates of the mechanic. It's advisable to get a diagnostic inspection to determine the exact repair costs.

7. Can a faulty battery cause OBDII code P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High?

- While a weak or dead battery can cause starting issues, it is not a common cause of OBDII code P0617. It's recommended to rule out other potential causes before replacing the battery.

8. Will resetting the OBDII system clear the P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High code?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to return. It's crucial to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem.

9. Are there any preventative measures to avoid OBDII code P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High?

- Regular maintenance of the starter system, including checking for loose connections and ensuring proper wiring integrity, can help prevent issues that may trigger the P0617 code.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0617 RAM Starter Control Circuit High?

- The repair time for this code can vary depending on the cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair. Simple fixes like replacing a starter relay may take a shorter time compared to diagnosing and repairing a wiring issue.