Starter Inhibit Relay Circuit Diagnosis

Circuit Description

The PCM has the ability to disable starter operation if conditions inappropriate for starter operation exist. The PCM disables the starter if the engine is running, if a correct Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) password is not received from the VTD system or if the vehicle operator attempts to engage the starter for an extended period of time. The PCM controlled starter system consists of the following components:
^ Starter enable relay.
^ The Transaxle Range / Park Neutral Position switch.
^ The ignition switch.
^ The starter solenoid.
^ The PCM.

Diagnostic Aids

The PCM Controlled Starter Diagnosis table is intended to identify electrical malfunctions that can occur with the system. For additional system diagnosis, refer to Starting and Charging. For starter motor diagnosis and service and repair, refer to Charging System.

Check for the following conditions:
^ Poor connection at the PCM, the starter enable relay, the Transaxle Range / Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch, the ignition switch or the starter solenoid.
Inspect harness connectors for the following conditions:
- Backed out terminals.
- Improper mating.
- Broken locks.
- Improperly formed or damaged terminals.
- Poor terminal to wire connection.
^ Damaged harness.
Inspect the wiring harness for damage.
^ VIN 1 - Either of the following conditions can cause the PCM to disable starter operation:
- The engine is running.
- The starter has been continuously engaged for longer than 30 seconds.
- A correct VTD password has not been received from the VTD system.
^ VIN K - Either of the following conditions can cause the PCM to disable starter operation:
- The engine is running.
- The starter has been continuously engaged for longer than 15 seconds.
- A correct VTD password has not been received from the VTD system.