P0512

Starter Request Circuit

Q: Is it safe to drive with P0512?

The bigger risk is being unable to restart the engine. If you rely on the vehicle, have the starter request circuit diagnosed before your next trip.

Q: Can I just clear P0512?

It clears, but returns if the switch, relay, or wiring in the start-request circuit is still faulty. Repair the cause first.

Starting system Generic OBD-II High

What it means

P0512 means the engine computer detected a problem in the starter request circuit — the signal path from the ignition or push-button start switch that tells the system to crank the engine. Because this circuit carries the start command, a fault here can cause intermittent cranking, hard starting, or a no-start, so it's worth diagnosing before you get stranded.

High

Can I keep driving? Maybe not — this circuit carries the start signal, so a fault can cause hard starting or a no-start; have it diagnosed before relying on the vehicle.

Real-world scan data

Seen in

194

scans in the past year

Found in

<0.1%

of scans

0.1%

of scans that found faults

Figures reflect only diagnostic scans recorded through our own apps and tools. Cars are typically scanned because a symptom or warning light prompted it, so these counts describe our scan records — not the incidence of faults in any model, and not the quality, reliability, or safety of any vehicle. No comparison between manufacturers or models is implied. All trademarks belong to their respective owners; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.

Common symptoms

What you'll notice

Check-engine light on
Engine cranks intermittently or not at all
Difficulty starting or needing several attempts
A single click or no response when starting

Common causes

Most likely first

Faulty ignition switch or push-button start switchLikely
Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring in the starter request circuitCommon
Failed starter relayCommon
Poor connection at the ECM/BCM start inputLess often
Failed control module handling the start request (least common)Less often

How to diagnose & fix

Work through it in order

Read freeze-frame data and note whether the fault is present during a start attempt.
Inspect the ignition/start switch and its wiring for opens, shorts, or corrosion.
Check the starter relay and its control circuit for proper operation.
Verify the start-request signal reaches the ECM/BCM when the switch is operated.
Repair the wiring or replace the faulty switch/relay; clear the code and confirm reliable starting.

FAQ

Quick answers

Is it safe to drive with P0512?+

The bigger risk is being unable to restart the engine. If you rely on the vehicle, have the starter request circuit diagnosed before your next trip.

Can I just clear P0512?+

It clears, but returns if the switch, relay, or wiring in the start-request circuit is still faulty. Repair the cause first.

Read & clear P0512 yourself

Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.

▶ Get it on Google Play

✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX