What it means
The starter relay control circuit voltage is above the upper threshold — short to supply or stuck driver.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
The starter relay control circuit lets the control module command the starter relay. The module monitors that circuit and sets P0617 when its voltage rises above the expected range, which can happen if the circuit is shorted to a power supply or the driver is stuck on.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Relay circuit shorted to supply
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
- Supply wire pinched against B+ source
Symptoms
- No-crank or intermittent starting
How to diagnose it
- Use a scan tool to save freeze-frame data and check whether P0617 occurs during a start request or is present continuously.
- Inspect the starter relay and its connector for corrosion, loose pins, or signs of overheating.
- Follow the relay control wiring and look for a pinched section touching a battery-positive or other powered wire.
- With the circuit isolated as specified by the manufacturer, test for an unintended connection between the control line and a power supply.
- Check the relay and control module driver using the manufacturer's diagnostic procedure to distinguish a wiring short from a stuck output.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure corroded or loose connector terminals.
- Repair a pinched wire or short to a power supply in the relay control circuit.
- Replace the starter relay if testing shows it is stuck or faulty.
- Repair or replace the control module only if its driver fails the manufacturer's tests.
Can I keep driving?
Starting may be unreliable or impossible, so the vehicle could fail to restart after you switch it off. Arrange diagnosis before depending on it for a trip.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.