What it means
Starter relay C reports a control circuit/open condition. Engine cranking can be inhibited or commanded unintentionally.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
Starter relay C switches power in the starting system when the control module requests cranking. The module monitors relay C's control circuit and sets P2AF2 when it detects an open path, such as a broken control wire, an open relay coil, or a terminal that has backed out.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Open in relay control wire
- Open relay coil
- Pin pushed back out of connector body
Symptoms
- Check-engine light may be on
- Engine may not crank
- Intermittent starting difficulty
How to diagnose it
- Check freeze-frame and related starting-system codes, and note whether the fault occurs during a no-crank or intermittent start.
- Inspect relay C's connector and harness for a backed-out pin, loose fit, corrosion, or a broken wire.
- Verify relay C is the correct relay using the vehicle's fuse-box diagram, then inspect its seating and terminals.
- With the manufacturer's wiring diagram, check continuity through the relay C control wire and its connector terminals.
- Test the relay coil and commanded control circuit using the manufacturer's procedure to locate the open.
Common fixes
- Reseat a loose relay C connector terminal or relay.
- Repair an open wire or replace a connector terminal in relay C's control circuit.
- Replace relay C if its coil is open.
Can I keep driving?
The engine may fail to crank without warning, so avoid relying on the vehicle for trips where a failed restart would be unsafe. If the starter runs normally and there are no unusual noises, driving is generally possible, but get the starting fault diagnosed soon.
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.