AutoCodes – GMC – P0616 2015 GMC Sierra

P0616 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 161
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 15, 2022
πŸ’¬ Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers β€” it's free!

Code P0616 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra - Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P0616 2015 GMC Sierra Code - Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0616 2015 GMC Sierra?

  • 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 2015 GMC Sierra?

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 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0616 2015 GMC Sierra code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0616 2015 GMC Sierra 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 2015 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0616 mean on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

P0616 indicates a Starter Relay Control Circuit Low Voltage, meaning the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a voltage issue in the starter relay circuit.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0616 in a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include the engine not starting, a clicking sound when turning the key, or intermittent starting issues.

3. What causes the P0616 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty starter relay, damaged or corroded wiring, a weak battery, or a malfunctioning Engine Control Module (ECM).

4. How do I diagnose the P0616 code on my 2015 GMC Sierra?

Start by checking the battery voltage, inspecting the wiring and connections to the starter relay, and testing the relay itself for proper functionality.

5. Can a weak battery trigger the P0616 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Yes, a weak or discharged battery can cause low voltage in the starter relay circuit, triggering the P0616 code.

6. How do I fix the P0616 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the starter relay, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or replacing the battery if it's weak.

7. Will a P0616 code prevent my 2015 GMC Sierra from starting?

Yes, in many cases, a P0616 code can prevent the engine from starting due to insufficient voltage in the starter relay circuit.

8. Is the P0616 code dangerous to drive with on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

If the truck starts, it may still drive, but the issue could worsen and leave you stranded. It's best to address the problem promptly.

9. Can a faulty ECM cause the P0616 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Yes, although less common, a malfunctioning ECM can fail to send the correct signals to the starter relay, causing the P0616 code.

10. How much does it cost to repair the P0616 code on a 2015 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs depend on the cause. Replacing a starter relay may cost $50-$100, while wiring repairs or ECM replacement can be more expensive.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0616 2015 GMC Sierra OBDII Code

Code P0616 2015 GMC Sierra comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play