Locating the Starter Relay in Your 2012 Chrysler 200: A Guide

If you’re experiencing difficulty starting your 2012 Chrysler 200, the starter relay may be the culprit. The starter relay is an essential component of the starting system in your car, and it is responsible for initiating the engine’s cranking process. Without it, your vehicle won’t start. Therefore, it’s important to know where the starter relay is located in your 2012 Chrysler 200 and how to replace a faulty one.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on locating and replacing the starter relay in your 2012 Chrysler 200. We’ll also outline common signs of a faulty starter relay and guide you through testing the relay to determine if it needs replacement. Let’s dive in!

Understanding the Function of a Starter Relay

A starter relay is an integral part of a car’s starting system, including the 2012 Chrysler 200. Its primary function is to act as a switch, allowing the flow of electricity from the battery to the starter motor. When the key is turned to the “start” position, the relay receives a signal from the ignition switch, triggering an electromagnetic switch to close and complete the circuit, sending electricity to the starter motor. Without a properly functioning starter relay, the engine cannot start.

The starter relay is especially important in the 2012 Chrysler 200 because it is responsible for efficiently handling the high levels of current required to start the engine. The relay acts as a buffer between the battery and the starter motor, protecting the electrical system from potential power surges.

How a Starter Relay Works

A basic starter relay consists of four primary components: an electromagnetic coil, a movable contact armature, a stationary contact, and a spring. The electromagnetic coil is wrapped around a metal core, forming an electromagnet when connected to an electrical current. The movable contact armature is attached to the end of the coil and moves when the magnetic field is generated. The stationary contact is connected to the battery and starter motor, and the spring returns the armature to its original position when the electrical signal is removed.

When the ignition key is turned to the “start” position, a signal is sent to the starter relay, which activates the electromagnetic coil. This generates a magnetic field, pulling the movable contact armature towards the stationary contact and closing the circuit, allowing electricity to flow from the battery to the starter motor. Once the engine starts, the ignition switch is released, and the electromagnetic field is turned off, causing the spring to return the contact armature to its original position and opening the circuit.

Overall, the starter relay is a vital component of the 2012 Chrysler 200’s starting system, ensuring efficient and reliable engine performance. Understanding its function and importance is essential for car owners, especially when troubleshooting any potential issues.

Identifying Common Signs of a Faulty Starter Relay

The starter relay is an integral component of a car’s starting system, including the 2012 Chrysler 200. When it malfunctions, it can cause various issues that can prevent the car from starting at all. Here are some common signs that may indicate a faulty starter relay:

Signs of a Faulty Starter Relay	Explanations
The car won’t start or starts irregularly	If the starter motor doesn’t receive enough power, it may not start the car at all. If it starts but only intermittently, the starter relay may be failing.
The car makes a clicking sound when turning the key	This is a common sign of a bad starter relay. The relay is responsible for sending power from the battery to the starter motor. When it fails, the clicking sound is usually a sign that there is not enough power getting to the starter motor to start the car.
The car’s headlights are dim or don’t turn on	The starter relay is also responsible for managing the power supply to various electrical components in the car, including the headlights. If the lights seem dim or don’t turn on, it could indicate a failing starter relay.
The car’s dashboard lights flicker or don’t turn on	Similar to the headlights, the dashboard lights are also powered by the starter relay. If they don’t turn on or flicker, it could be a sign of a faulty relay.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to troubleshoot the starter relay to determine if it needs to be replaced. However, it’s also important to note that these symptoms could also be caused by other issues with the car’s starting system, so it’s best to have a professional mechanic diagnose the problem.

Preparing for the Starter Relay Location Process

Before attempting to locate the starter relay in your 2012 Chrysler 200, it is important to gather the necessary tools and prepare for the process. Below are the steps you should take:

1. Ensure your vehicle is parked on level ground and the engine is turned off. It is important to make sure your car is in a safe and stable position before starting any work.
2. Identify the battery location and disconnect the negative battery cable. This step is essential to avoid injury or damage, as it ensures no electrical current is flowing through the system.
3. Inspect the starter relay diagram. This will help you familiarize yourself with the layout of the starter relay system in your 2012 Chrysler 200. The diagram can be found in your car manual or online.
4. Gather your tools. You will need a socket wrench set, a multimeter for testing electrical connections, and a flashlight to aid visibility in tight spaces. It may also be helpful to have a small mirror or camera to help you see the underside of the car more clearly.
5. Prepare your work area. Clear out any clutter or debris around the engine compartment to avoid any tripping hazards or accidental damage to components. You may also want to lay down a tarp or piece of cardboard to protect yourself and your car from oil or other fluids.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you are prepared for the starter relay location process and can work safely and efficiently.

Locating the Starter Relay on Your 2012 Chrysler 200

Now that you understand the importance and function of a starter relay, you may need to locate it in your 2012 Chrysler 200. The starter relay in the 2012 Chrysler 200 is located in the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) under the hood. Follow these steps to locate it:

1. Turn off the engine and open the hood of your Chrysler 200.
2. Locate the TIPM box on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. It has a black plastic cover with a latch on the front.
3. Unlatch the cover and remove it to reveal the TIPM box.
4. Locate the starter relay, which is labeled M28, on the side of the TIPM box facing the engine. It is in the third row from the back, and the second column from the left.
5. Verify that you have found the correct relay by consulting the diagram on the underside of the TIPM box cover. The diagram should indicate the location of the M28 relay.

Once you have located the starter relay, you can proceed with testing, troubleshooting, or replacement as needed. Remember to consult your 2012 Chrysler 200 owner’s manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of the process.

Replacing the Starter Relay in Your 2012 Chrysler 200

If you have determined that your 2012 Chrysler 200’s starter relay is malfunctioning, it is important to replace it as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your vehicle. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace the starter relay:

1. Locate the starter relay using the process outlined in Section 5 of this article.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any electrical shocks or short circuits.
3. Remove the electrical connector from the starter relay by carefully pulling it out.
4. Use a wrench or socket to remove the bolts or screws that hold the starter relay in place, being careful not to damage any surrounding components.
5. Carefully remove the old starter relay and set it aside.
6. Insert the new starter relay in the same position as the old one and secure it with the bolts or screws.
7. Reconnect the electrical connector to the starter relay.
8. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
9. Start your 2012 Chrysler 200 to test the new starter relay.

It is important to note that if you are not comfortable with any of these steps, it is always best to have a professional mechanic replace the starter relay for you.

Additionally, it is recommended to use a genuine OEM starter relay to ensure proper compatibility and functionality with your 2012 Chrysler 200.

Testing the Starter Relay in Your 2012 Chrysler 200

If you suspect that your 2012 Chrysler 200 starter relay is faulty, it’s important to test it before replacing it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to test your starter relay:

1. Locate the starter relay in your 2012 Chrysler 200 by following the steps outlined in Section 5 of this guide.
2. Take a small wire and insert it into the relay socket that is connected to the ignition switch.
3. The other end of the wire should be touched to the positive battery terminal.
4. If you hear a clicking sound, it means that your starter relay is functional.
5. If you don’t hear a clicking sound, try replacing the relay with a new one and testing it again. If you still don’t hear a clicking sound, it’s possible that there’s an issue with the wiring or the starter motor.

It’s important to note that if you’re not comfortable with testing your starter relay yourself, it’s best to take your car to a professional mechanic for help.

Note: Testing your starter relay is not a guarantee that it’s functioning properly. If you continue to experience issues with starting your 2012 Chrysler 200 after testing the starter relay, it’s best to have your car inspected by a mechanic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Starter Relay in a 2012 Chrysler 200

If you are a 2012 Chrysler 200 owner, you might have some questions about the starter relay in your vehicle. To help you better understand the starter relay and its function, here are some frequently asked questions.

Q: What is a starter relay, and what does it do in a 2012 Chrysler 200?

A: A starter relay is an electrical component that acts as a switch, allowing power from the battery to reach the starter motor. In a 2012 Chrysler 200, the starter relay is responsible for initiating the starting process of the engine.

Q: How long does a starter relay last in a 2012 Chrysler 200?

A: The lifespan of a starter relay can vary depending on factors such as usage and maintenance. However, a starter relay in a 2012 Chrysler 200 can last for several years. It is important to regularly check and maintain the starter relay to ensure its optimal functioning.

Q: What are some signs that indicate a faulty starter relay in a 2012 Chrysler 200?

A: Some common signs of a faulty starter relay in a 2012 Chrysler 200 include difficulty starting the engine, clicking sound when turning the key, and a dead battery. If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be time to replace your starter relay.

Q: Can I replace the starter relay in my 2012 Chrysler 200 myself?

A: Yes, you can replace the starter relay in your 2012 Chrysler 200 yourself. However, it is recommended to have a professional mechanic diagnose and fix any issues related to the starter relay if you are not experienced in car repairs.

Q: Where is the starter relay located in a 2012 Chrysler 200?

A: The starter relay in a 2012 Chrysler 200 is typically located in the fuse and relay box in the engine compartment. You can refer to your vehicle’s owner manual for specific instructions on locating the starter relay.

Q: What precautions should I take while replacing the starter relay in my 2012 Chrysler 200?

A: When replacing the starter relay in your 2012 Chrysler 200, it is important to take safety precautions, such as disconnecting the battery and wearing protective gear. It is also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the proper tools for the job.

Q: How can I test if the starter relay in my 2012 Chrysler 200 is working properly?

A: To test your starter relay in a 2012 Chrysler 200, you can use a multimeter to check for continuity between the relay terminals. You can also perform a voltage drop test to determine if there is any voltage loss between the battery and the starter motor.

By understanding the basics of the starter relay in a 2012 Chrysler 200 and its importance, you can better maintain and diagnose any issues related to this component.