Where is the starter relay located on the Nissan Almera G15: location diagram and check

Owners Nissan Almera G15 (2013-2019 model years) often encounter engine starting problems associated with a faulty starter relay. This small part can cause a complete failure of the starting system, and finding and replacing it requires precise knowledge of its location. Unlike classical schemes, where the relay is installed in a mounting block under the hood, in Almera G15 the manufacturer used a non-standard solution - this confuses even experienced car owners.

In this article we will look at exact coordinates of the starter relay for different modifications Nissan Almera G15 (with manual and automatic transmission), we’ll tell you how to distinguish it from other relays in the block, and give step-by-step instructions for checking. You will also find out why On some cars, the starter relay is physically absent - its role is played by a built-in transistor in the control unit, and how this affects diagnosis.

Design features of the launch system in Almera G15

B Nissan Almera G15 used combined starter control circuit, which depends on the year of manufacture and configuration. On early models (2013–2015), the starter relay was located in the mounting block, and on later models (2016–2019) its function was taken over by Intelligent Power Distribution Module (IPDM) — “smart” fuse and relay box located under the hood.

Key elements of the system:

• 🔋 Battery — supplies power to the starter through relays and fuses.
• 🔌 Main starter relay (or transistor in IPDM) - closes the circuit when the key is turned.
• ⚙️ Starter - converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to rotate the flywheel.
• 📶 Engine control unit (ECU) — controls launch permission.

Feature Almera G15 is that the starter relay can be virtual — it is replaced by an electronic key in IPDM. This complicates diagnosis, since traditional testing methods (dialing contacts) do not work here. In such cases, error scanning is required via CONSULT-III or similar diagnostic devices.

Where is the Starter Relay: Step-by-Step Guide

The location of the relay depends on the year of manufacture of the car. Below is the search algorithm for both options.

1. Almera G15 2013–2015 (with physical relay)

On these models the starter relay is installed in fuse and relay mounting block, which is located in the cabin, to the left of the steering column. To access:

1. Open the driver's door and remove the unit cover (it is secured with latches).
2. Find the relay marked R17 or Starter Relay (there is a diagram on the block cover).
3. Relay color - black, standard size (type ISO 280).

Attention! On some versions the relay may be marked as IGN Relay (ignition relay), but perform the function of a starter. To be sure, check the inscriptions on the body or compare with a photo of the original relay (Nissan 25230-4M000).

2. Almera G15 2016–2019 (with IPDM)

On newer models there is no physical relay - it was replaced transistor switch inside the IPDM blocklocated under the hood. To get to it:

1. Open the hood and look for a black plastic block next to the battery (on the cover there is an inscription IPDM E/R).
2. Remove the unit cover by releasing the 4 latches.
3. There is no starter relay here - its function is performed by a microcircuit on the board (marking Q101 or TR1).

⚠️ Attention: Trying to replace the “relay” in IPDM by soldering or installing an external relay will lead to operational errors ECU. In such cases, it is necessary to replace the entire IPDM unit or reflash it at a service center.

How to Test the Starter Relay: 3 Working Methods

Before replacing the relay, make sure that this is the problem. Below are step-by-step instructions for both types of systems.

Method 1: Standard Relay Test (2013–2015)

You will need a multimeter or test light. Proceed like this:

1. Remove the relay from the block (mark its location!).
2. Connect the multimeter probes to the contacts 85 And 86 (winding). There must be resistance 50–120 Ohm.
3. Apply 12V to the contacts 85 And 86 - a click should be heard (contacts closing 30 And 87).

If there is no click or the winding resistance tends to infinity, the relay is faulty. Also check the contacts at oxidation (clean with fine sandpaper or WD-40).

Method 2: IPDM Diagnosis (2016–2019)

To check the transistor switch in IPDM:

1. Connect a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431) to the connector OBD-II.
2. Check for error codes B2600 or B2601 - they indicate a fault in the starter circuit.
3. Measure the voltage at the contact 10 IPDM connector (must be 12V when turning the key).

⚠️ Attention: If the IPDM unit is “silent” (no clicks when turning the key), do not try to disassemble it - this will lead to loss of calibration. Contact the service to check the firmware.

Method 3: Direct Starter Test

If the relay is OK, but the starter does not turn, check it directly:

1. Remove the control chip from the starter (thin wire).
2. Briefly apply +12V from the battery to the starter control contact.
3. If the starter spins, the problem is in the control circuit (relay, IPDM, ignition switch).

Signs of a bad starter relay

Symptoms of a broken relay are often confused with a dead battery or a malfunction of the starter itself. Here exact signs, pointing specifically to the relay:

• 🔊 Starter clicking without turning - the relay is triggered, but the contacts are burnt or there is no power to the starter.
• 🔄 The starter turns over after several attempts - a sign of “sticking” relay contacts.
• 🚗 The car does not respond when you turn the key (no click) - relay winding is broken or there is a problem in the IPDM.
• 🔥 Burning smell from under the panel — burning of relay contacts or IPDM unit.

If symptoms appear periodically (for example, in the morning or after rain), oxidation of the contacts is to blame. In this case, it is enough to clean the relays and connectors. If the problem is persistent, replacement is required.

Symptom	Probable Cause	Solution
Single click, starter does not turn	Burnt relay or IPDM contacts	Relay replacement or IPDM diagnostics
Multiple clicks on startup	Low battery voltage or faulty relay coil	Charge the battery or replace the relay
No response to the key (silence)	Open circuit, IPDM or ignition switch fault	Checking with a multimeter, diagnostics with a scanner
The starter turns after heating the relay (hair dryer)	Cold soldering of contacts inside the relay	Replacing the relay (repair is unreliable)

Replacing the starter relay: step-by-step instructions

If the diagnostics confirm that the relay is faulty, replace it. For Almera G15 original and similar parts fit:

• 🔧 Original: Nissan 25230-4M000 (price ~800–1200 rub.).
• 🔧 Analogues: Panasonic TXS4-DC12V, Hella 4RA 003 546-131.

Tools: flat screwdriver, tweezers (for removing the relay), dielectric gloves.

Replacement steps:

1. Disable negative battery terminal (required!).
2. Remove the cover of the mounting block (in the passenger compartment or under the hood, depending on the year).
3. Find the starter relay (see diagram on the block cover or photo above).
4. Carefully pry the relay with a screwdriver and remove it.
5. Install a new relay until it clicks (don't confuse the orientation!).
6. Connect the battery and test starting.

⚠️ Attention: On cars with IPDM (2016–2019), replacing the “relay” is impossible - the entire unit must be repaired or replaced. Trying to solder an external relay will result in an error U1000 (loss of communication with ECU).

What should I do if, after replacing the relay, the starter still does not work?

Check:

1. **Fuse F30 (10A)** in the mounting block - it is responsible for the relay control circuit.

2. **Engine weight** - the contact on the body next to the battery often oxidizes.

3. **Ignition switch** - wear of the contact group can block the signal to the relay.

If the problem persists, diagnose the IPDM or ECU with a scan tool.

Frequent mistakes during diagnostics and repairs

Inexperienced car owners often make mistakes that aggravate the problem. That's what can't do:

• 🔧 Ignore battery check - a dead battery gives the same symptoms as a faulty relay.
• 🔌 Short the starter contacts “directly” - this may burn the winding or IPDM.
• 📱 Buy relays based on appearance - even relays that are identical in shape can have different winding resistance.
• 🔧 Disassemble IPDM yourself - this will lead to loss of calibration and expensive repairs.

Another common mistake is Confuse the starter relay with the fuel pump relay (they are similar and located nearby). To avoid this, always refer to the diagram on the block cover or a photo of the original relay.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Can the starter relay be repaired or is it just a replacement?

Theoretically, the relay can be disassembled and the contacts cleaned, but in practice this is unreliable. Oxidation or burning of contacts is a sign of wear, and after cleaning the problem will return in 1-3 months. We recommend replacement (the cost of a new relay is ~800 rubles, repairs will cost more taking into account the time).

Why does the starter spin after replacing the relay, but the engine does not start?

This indicates another problem:

• Malfunction crankshaft sensor (error code P0335).
• No spark (check ignition coils).
• Clogged fuel injectors or faulty fuel pump.

Check for errors with a scan tool or measure the pressure in the fuel rail (normal: 3–4 bar).

Where to buy an original relay for Almera G15?

Original relay Nissan 25230-4M000 you can order:

• From official dealers Nissan (1 year warranty).
• On Exist.ru or Autodoc (article to search: 252304M000).
• In auto electrical stores (for example, Chip and Dip).

Attention! Before buying, compare the photo of the relay with yours - there are many fakes on the market with thin contacts that quickly burn out.

How to check IPDM without a scanner?

Without diagnostic equipment you can do basic check:

1. Turn the key to position ON (don't start it).
2. Listen to the IPDM unit - the fuel pump relay should click.
3. If there is no click, check the fuse F30 (10A) and contact voltage 10 IPDM connector.

If the unit is “silent”, it needs to be taken for diagnostics - independent repair is impossible.

Is it possible to drive with a faulty starter relay?

Technically it's possible, but it's dangerous and inconvenient:

• If the relay is stuck, the starter may continue to rotate after the engine starts, which leads to Bendix failure.
• If the relay does not work, you risk being left without starting the engine at any time.
• On vehicles with IPDM, a faulty relay can block other systems (for example, the cooling fan).

Conclusion: You can operate a car with such a malfunction only for a trip to the service center.