OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic)

P0512 Starter Request Circuit

The starter request input - the signal that tells the ECU the driver wants to crank the engine - shows a circuit fault. Without it the engine cannot be started under software-managed start strategies (stop-start, push-button, immobiliser-coordinated start).

Is it safe to drive with P0512?

Usually safe to drive in the short term. Get it diagnosed when convenient, sooner if the car drives differently.

Common causes

  • Most likelyOpen in switch or harness

Repair at a glance

Difficulty
Easy
DIY friendly
Often, with basic tools
Typical labour
0.3–1.2 h
Emissions test
Usually unaffected
Parts involved
Starter Request Input, Ignition Switch

Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.