Circuit Description

Moving the ignition switch to the START position sends a 12 volt signal to the powertrain control module (PCM) Crank Request circuit. The PCM verifies that the transmission is in the PARK or NEUTRAL position. With the transmission in Park, voltage flows through the Park/Neutral position switch and feeds the starter relay coil. The PCM then grounds the control circuit of the starter relay. When the starter relay is energized it allows battery positive voltage to the starter solenoid S terminal. On some vehicles the starter will continue to crank the engine with the key released until it starts or the crank command has timed out to prevent excessive heat build up in the starter circuitry or the PCM receives an engine run flag.