P2AF7: Starter Relay D Control Circuit/Open

What it means

Starter relay D 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 D is a separate relay in the cranking control system. The module monitors relay D's control path and sets P2AF7 when that path is open, such as from a broken wire, an open relay coil, or a connector pin pushed back in its housing.

Common causes

Most likely first.

1. Open in relay control wire
2. Open relay coil
3. 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

1. Review freeze-frame and related starting-system codes, and note whether the fault coincides with a no-crank or intermittent start.
2. Locate relay D using the vehicle's fuse-box diagram and inspect its connector for a backed-out pin, corrosion, or a loose fit.
3. Inspect the relay D control harness for breaks, chafing, or damage near the relay and its connectors.
4. Using the manufacturer's wiring diagram, check continuity through relay D's control wire and connector terminals.
5. Test relay D's coil and control circuit using the manufacturer's procedure to identify the open point.

Common fixes

• Reseat a backed-out relay D connector pin or loose relay.
• Repair an open wire or replace a damaged terminal in relay D's control circuit.
• Replace relay D if its coil is open.

Can I keep driving?

The engine may not crank or may start intermittently, so plan around the possibility of being unable to restart. If it starts and the starter disengages normally, driving a short distance is generally possible, but have relay D's circuit checked soon.