GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC P0512 : Starter Switch Circuit

Diagnostic Fault Information

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Performance

Starter Switch Circuit

--

--

P0512

--

Circuit/System Description

When the Ignition is placed in the start position, 12  volts is supplied to the ECM notifying it that crank has been requested. If the ECM detects voltage on the circuit with the engine running, the DTC will set.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • Battery voltage is between 10-16  volts.
    • The Ignition switch is ON.
    • The engine is running.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The ECM detects battery voltage on the START input with the engine running.
    • The condition is present for 1.6  seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

DTC P0512 is a C type DTC.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

DTC P0512 is a C type DTC.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Starting and Charging Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Charging System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

Verify DTC P0512 is set as current. Observe the scan tool ECM Crank Request Signal parameter. The reading should display NO.

If the parameter displays Yes and the Ignition switch is not in start position , refer to Circuit/System Testing.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connectors at the ECM
  2. Ignition ON, clutch fully depressed on manual transmission, test for less than 1  volt between the start switch signal circuit X1 terminal 96 and ground.
  3. If greater than the specified range, test the circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, test or replace the Ignition Switch.
  4. If the circuit tests normal, test or replace the ECM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Ignition and Start Switch Replacement
    •  Control Module References for ECM replacement, setup, and programming