P0615 code meaning
Starter Relay A Circuit
Powertrain system Generic code P06xx codes Check engine light
What P0615 means
The engine module switches the starter relay coil through its own driver – GM gasoline engines with 12 V stop-start use a low-side driver, the Saab 9-4X switches 12 V to the coil. CARB requires output components to be checked for open and short circuits. GM sets the codes after two trips on stop-start engines, while GM diesels (2016) and the Saab 9-4X store them without the check engine light. At Ford an active starter code blocks stop-start. P0615 is the open or general circuit fault: GM measures the driver output with the driver off and sets the code at 200 kΩ or more after 40 of 50 samples at 50 ms. Chrysler traced no-start cases with P0615 to a harness chafed or pinched at the engine mount near the starter. Short to ground and to voltage are P0616 and P0617; the start request input is P0512.
P0615 at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyEasy, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.3 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of P0615
- Engine does not crank
- Stop-start not working
- Intermittent starting problems
- Check engine light only with some makers
Common causes of P0615
- Most likelyStarter relay faulty (coil open)
- PossibleControl wire open, harness chafed or pinched, connector corroded
- PossibleRelay ground, fuse or supply faulty
- Less likelyDriver in the engine module faulty
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Starter relayStarter relay control circuitEngine control module
What each part of P0615 means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 6 | Area: computer (engine control module) and output circuits. |
| 15 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P0615 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P0615
What does P0615 mean?
P0615 means "Starter Relay A Circuit". The engine module switches the starter relay coil through its own driver – GM gasoline engines with 12 V stop-start use a low-side driver, the Saab 9-4X switches 12 V to the coil. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P0615?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P0615 fail an emissions test?
P0615 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is P0615 to fix?
Difficulty: easy. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P0615 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.