What Does C1116 Mean?
C1116 indicates the vehicle's chassis control module detected an abnormal electrical condition in the starter motor circuit. This code typically means the control module cannot properly command or monitor the starter relay/solenoid circuit, preventing reliable engine cranking. The fault may be in the starter relay, wiring, control module output driver, or the starter motor solenoid circuit itself.
Safety Warning
Vehicle may fail to start or experience intermittent no-crank conditions, potentially leaving occupants stranded in unsafe locations. Repair immediately as reliable starting system operation is essential for vehicle use and emergency situations.
Common Causes
35%
Faulty starter relay or relay control circuit (open, short to ground, or high resistance)
30%
Damaged or corroded wiring/connectors in starter control circuit between control module and starter relay/solenoid
20%
Failed starter solenoid or internal starter motor electrical fault creating feedback to control circuit
10%
Blown fuse or fusible link in starter control circuit
5%
Failed control module output driver or internal module fault
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of starter relay location, check for proper relay seating, corrosion, and inspect all related fuses/fusible links. Verify battery voltage is at least 12.4V with engine off.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, backprobe the starter relay control terminal and verify the control module is sending proper ground or voltage signal (typically ground signal) when ignition is turned to START position. Expected reading: control signal present during crank attempt.
3
Step 3: Test starter relay operation by swapping with identical relay from another circuit if available, or bench test relay with appropriate voltage and verify coil resistance (typically 70-120 ohms) and contact continuity when energized.
4
Step 4: Check continuity and resistance of wiring between relay and starter solenoid S-terminal. Resistance should be less than 1 ohm. Inspect all connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or moisture intrusion.
5
Step 5: Perform voltage drop test on starter control circuit during crank attempt. Measure voltage at starter solenoid S-terminal with key in START position - should see battery voltage. Excessive voltage drop (>0.5V) indicates circuit resistance.
6
Step 6: If all circuits test normal, perform starter motor bench test or current draw test. Starter draw should be 80-150 amps typically. Clear codes, road test, and verify repair by attempting multiple engine starts and monitoring for code return.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
C1116 indicates the vehicle's chassis control module detected an abnormal electrical condition in the starter motor circuit. This code typically means the control module cannot properly command or monitor the starter relay/solenoid circuit, preventing reliable engine cranking. The fault may be in th...
The most common cause of C1116 (Starter Motor Circuit Failure) is: Faulty starter relay or relay control circuit (open, short to ground, or high resistance)
Typical repair costs for C1116 range from $100 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Vehicle may fail to start or experience intermittent no-crank conditions, potentially leaving occupants stranded in unsafe locations. Repair immediately as reliable starting system operation is essential for vehicle use and emergency situations.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1116 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
Starting System / Chassis Electrical
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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