AutoCodes – GMC – P0617 GMC

P0617 GMC Code - Starter Relay Control Circuit High 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: P0617 GMC indicates Starter Relay Control Circuit High 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 571

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 P0617 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 P0617 GMC - Starter Relay Control Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0617 GMC Code - Starter Relay Control Circuit High Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0617 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 P0617 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 P0617 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 P0617 GMC code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0617 GMC code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0617 GMC code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific GMC Models

P0617 2014 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit High Voltage
P0617 2015 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit High Voltage
P0617 2016 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit High Voltage
P0617 2017 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit High Voltage
P0617 2018 GMC Sierra — Starter Relay Control Circuit High 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 P0617 GMC Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0617 mean on a GMC vehicle?

The P0617 code indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a high voltage condition in the starter relay control circuit.

2. What are common symptoms of the P0617 code in a GMC?

Symptoms may include the engine not starting, intermittent starting issues, illuminated check engine light, or a no-crank condition.

3. What causes the P0617 code to appear on a GMC?

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

4. Can a bad starter relay cause the P0617 code?

Yes, a malfunctioning starter relay can result in high voltage being detected in the control circuit, triggering the P0617 code.

5. How do you diagnose the P0617 code on a GMC?

Diagnosis involves checking the battery voltage, inspecting the starter relay and related wiring for damage, and testing the control circuit for proper voltage levels.

6. Can I drive my GMC with the P0617 code active?

Driving may be impossible if the engine fails to start. Even if it starts, itâ€™s best to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage.

7. How can I fix the P0617 code on my GMC?

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

8. Is a weak battery a possible cause of the P0617 code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can contribute to electrical irregularities, potentially causing the P0617 code.

9. How much does it cost to repair the P0617 code on a GMC?

Repair costs vary but may range from $50 for a starter relay replacement to several hundred dollars if ECM replacement or extensive wiring repairs are needed.

10. Can clearing the P0617 code without repairs solve the problem?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the underlying issue must be fixed to prevent the code from returning.