OBD-II fault code

P25B8: Auxiliary Ignition Switch On/Start Position Circuit Low

What it means

Auxiliary ignition switch On/Start input reads stuck low — short to ground or stuck-closed contact. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light

How it works

The auxiliary ignition switch sends a Run/Start request from a second operating station to the controller. This code sets when the controller reads the On/Start input as continuously low, which can happen if the signal wire is grounded or the switch circuit is stuck in its inactive state.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Wire shorted to ground
  2. Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
  3. Harness chafing through insulation

Symptoms

  • Auxiliary ignition or start function may be unavailable

How to diagnose it

  1. Use a scan tool to record freeze-frame data and watch the auxiliary On/Start input while switching the auxiliary ignition on and off.
  2. Check whether the auxiliary station’s Run/Start function is unavailable and whether the primary ignition still operates normally.
  3. Inspect the auxiliary switch connector and harness for chafing, moisture, corrosion, pushed-back pins, or a wire contacting ground.
  4. Using the wiring diagram and manufacturer’s procedure, check whether the input wire is shorted to ground and whether the switch changes the circuit state when operated.
  5. If the harness and switch pass, test the controller input circuit and connector for a grounded pin or internal fault.

Common fixes

  • Clean and secure a corroded or loose auxiliary switch connector, replacing damaged terminals as needed.
  • Repair insulation damage where the auxiliary On/Start signal wire is contacting ground.
  • Replace a faulty auxiliary ignition switch if it holds the circuit low when disconnected from the harness.
  • Repair the controller connector or input circuit if testing isolates the fault there.

Can I keep driving?

The auxiliary start function may not work, though the primary ignition may still operate normally. Avoid relying on the auxiliary station until the circuit is repaired.

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.

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