Nissan Micra - a compact and reliable car, but even it eventually has problems starting the engine. One of the most common reasons is a malfunction starter relay or solenoid relay. Unlike a breakdown of the starter itself, which requires serious repairs, the relay can be diagnosed and replaced independently, saving on a service station.
In this article we will look at where the starter relay is located on different generations Micra (including popular K12, K13 And K14), how to check it with a multimeter, what symptoms indicate a malfunction, and we will give step-by-step instructions for replacement. We also provide a table of spare parts compatibility and prices for original and similar relays.
Where is the starter relay located on Nissan Micra?
The location of the relay depends on the vehicle generation and transmission type. In most cases it can be found in two places:
- 🔧 Main relay block (under the hood, next to the battery or in the cabin behind the glove compartment). On Micra K12 (2002–2010) The starter relay is usually installed in the mounting block to the left of the steering column.
- 🚗 Directly at the starter (squeezer relay). On Micra K13/K14 (2010–2020) a combined scheme is often used, where the main relay is located in the block and the solenoid relay is on the starter housing.
- ⚡ Additional relay (on some modifications with automatic transmission). Can be located separately, for example, under the center console.
To determine the exact location, refer to the electrical diagram for your model. For example, on Micra K12 with engine HR15DE the starter relay is marked as R18 in the interior mounting block. On K13 with KR12DDT (turbo) it can be labeled as R5.
- K12 (2002–2010)
- K13 (2010–2017)
- K14 (2017–2020)
- Other
Signs of a bad starter relay
A faulty relay manifests itself in different ways, but there is 5 Key Symptomsthat should alert you:
- The starter does not respond to turning the key — there is no click, the engine does not turn over. At the same time, the battery is charged and other electrical appliances work.
- There is a click, but the starter does not turn — the characteristic sound of the retractor is heard, but the flywheel does not rotate.
- The starter spins “idling”** — the flywheel does not engage, a grinding or squealing noise is heard.
- Multiple clicks on startup — the relay “rattles”, but the engine does not start.
- Launching only after several attempts — the relay is activated every other time.
It is important to distinguish problems with the relay from problems with the starter or battery itself. For example, if when you turn the key a single loud click is heard, but the starter does not rotate - the solenoid relay is to blame in 90% of cases. If there are no clicks at all, the problem may be with the main relay or an open circuit.
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Micra K13 with the system Intelligent Key (keyless start) similar symptoms can be caused by a faulty immobilizer. Before replacing the relay, check whether the immo indicator on the dashboard is flashing.
How to test the starter relay with a multimeter?
For diagnostics, you will need a multimeter (in continuity or resistance measurement mode) and a screwdriver. The test can be performed without removing the relay, but for accuracy it is better to remove it.
Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery|
Remove the mounting block cover|
Locate the starter relay (see diagram for your model)|
Prepare a multimeter ("200 Ohm" or continuity mode)|-->
Step 1: Check the control circuit
Connect the multimeter to the contacts 85 And 86 relay (usually thin wires). Resistance must be within 50–120 Ohm. If the readings tend to infinity, the winding is broken; if they are close to zero, there is a short circuit.
Step 2: Check the power circuit
Connect the probes to the contacts 30 And 87 (thick wires). In the initial state, the resistance should be infinite (the circuit is open). When voltage is applied 12V to contacts 85 And 86 (you can use a battery) the resistance should drop to 0 ohm (the circuit is closed).
Step 3: Checking the Solenoid Relay
If the problem is in the retractor, remove the starter and connect it directly to the battery (plus contact B, minus the body). A working relay should operate with a characteristic click and extend the bendix. If there is no click, the relay is faulty.
| Relay type | Normal Resistance (Ohm) | Symptoms of a problem |
|---|---|---|
| Main relay (in block) | 50–120 (winding), 0 (closed contacts) | No click, starter does not respond |
| Solenoid relay | 0.5–1.5 (winding), 0 (closed contacts) | There is a click, but the starter does not turn |
| Lock relay (automatic transmission) | 30–80 (winding) | Start only in "N" position |
If you don’t have a multimeter at hand, you can temporarily install a known-good relay (for example, from a cooling fan) - they are often interchangeable in contacts.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the starter relay
Replacing the starter relay with Nissan Micra takes 15–30 minutes and does not require special skills. The main thing is to maintain consistency and not mix up the contacts.
Tools:
- 🔧 Screwdriver with a Phillips bit (for removing the block cover).
- 🔨 Flat screwdriver (for dismantling the relay).
- 📸 Phone (to photograph the location of the wires).
- 🔋 Multimeter (to test the new relay before installation).
Step 1: Power off
Remove the negative terminal from the battery to avoid short circuit. On Micra K13 with the system Intelligent Key Additionally, remove the key from the passenger compartment - this will relieve the voltage in the immobilizer circuit.
Step 2. Removing the old relay
Locate the starter relay in the mounting block (see diagram for your model). Carefully pry it up with a screwdriver and remove it. If the relay is “stuck”, do not apply force - it is better to treat the contacts WD-40 and wait 5 minutes.
Step 3: Installing a New Relay
Insert the new relay into the socket, making sure the contacts line up. On Micra K12 pay attention to the markings: the starter relay is often marked with the symbol ST or IG. After installation, check the fixation - the relay should fit tightly, without play.
Step 4. Check functionality
Connect the battery and try to start the engine. If the starter worked the first time and the click became clear, the replacement was successful. If the problem persists, check the solenoid relay or the starter itself.
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Micra K14 (2017–2020) after replacing the starter relay, it may be necessary to reset errors in the control unit. To do this, disconnect the battery for 10 minutes or use a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch CReader).
Starter relay compatibility and prices for Nissan Micra
Original starter relays for Micra are produced by the company Mitsubishi Electric or Hitachi, but there are high-quality analogues on the market from Bosch, Valeo And Febi. Below is a compatibility table for popular generations:
| Model | Original art. | Analogues | Average price (RUB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Micra K12 (2002–2010) | 25310-4M000 |
Bosch 0332014150, Valeo 438029 | 800–1 500 |
| Micra K13 (2010–2017, petrol) | 25310-JK00A |
Febi 15216, Meat & Doria 21011 | 1 200–2 000 |
Micra K13 (turbo, KR12DDT) |
25310-JK01A |
Hella 4RA 003 503-121 | 1 800–2 500 |
| Micra K14 (2017–2020) | 25310-JK02A |
Blue Print ADG02401 | 1 500–2 200 |
When choosing an analogue, pay attention to rated voltage (must be 12V) and switching current (no less 30A for Micra K12 And 40A for K13/K14). Cheap relays without a brand (price below 500 rubles) often fail after 1–2 months.
Where to buy a starter relay for Nissan Micra?
It is better to order original spare parts from official dealers or on websites Nissan Parts, Amayama. Analogues from Bosch And Valeo can be found in stores Avtodelo, Exist, Emex. When purchasing, check for a certificate - counterfeits are often sold under the guise of branded parts.
Common mistakes when replacing a starter relay
Even experienced car owners make mistakes that lead to repeated breakdowns or damage to electronics. Here TOP-5 misses and how to avoid them:
- ⚡ Ignoring battery check. Low battery charge (below
11.8V) can simulate a relay failure. Always check the voltage before diagnosing. - 🔧 Mixed up contacts. On Micra K13 The starter relay and the fuel pump relay are similar in appearance, but have different pinouts. Always check the diagram!
- 💥 Short circuit during testing. When connecting the relay directly to the battery, do not touch the body to ground - this may burn the winding.
- 🔩 Insufficient fixation. If the relay is not seated tightly in the socket, the contacts will oxidize. Use a special lubricant for electrical contacts (for example, Liqui Moly Electronic-Spray).
- 📱 Ignoring immobilizer errors. On Micra K14 after replacement the relay may light up
Check Engine. In this case, the error must be reset by the scanner.
Another common mistake is buying a relay by eye. For example, a relay for Micra K12 with engine CR14DE not suitable for K13 with HR16DE, although outwardly they are identical. Always check Vehicle VIN or original art. details.
If, after replacing the relay, the starter turns, but the engine does not start, check the circuit from the ignition switch to the relay - often the problem lies in a broken wire or oxidation of the contacts.
When do you need to change not the relay, but the starter?
The starter relay is not the only cause of starting problems. If the symptoms remain after replacing the relay, the starter itself may be faulty. Here 3 signs**,** that it’s time to remove and repair the starter:
- 🔊 Grinding or squealing noise when starting up - Bendix gears are worn out.
- 🔥 Burning smell from under the hood — the armature winding burned out.
- 🔄 Starter turns very slowly (even with a charged battery) - the brushes or bearings are worn out.
On Nissan Micra K13 The starter often fails due to moisture getting into the housing (weak sealing). If you notice rust on the mounting bolts, the starter will most likely need to be replaced or rebuilt.
Cost of a new starter for Micra - from 8,000 to 15,000 rub. (original), repairs will cost 3,000–5,000 rub.. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact a service station - disassembling the starter requires a special tool (Bendix puller, winding tester).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the starter relay Nissan Micra
Is it possible to drive with a faulty starter relay?
Technically it is possible, but it is not safe. If the relay gets stuck in the closed state, the starter will spin constantly, which will lead to overheating and a fire. In addition, if the relay is faulty, you risk being left without starting the engine at any time.
How can you tell the difference between a faulty relay and a problem with the ignition switch?
If the problem is in the lock, then when you turn the key there will be no reaction (even the lights on the dashboard will not light up). If the lights come on, but the starter does not work, the relay or the starter itself is to blame. Also check if there is voltage at the contact 50 ignition switch when turning the key (must be 12V).
How long does the starter relay last? Nissan Micra?
Service life of the original relay - 100,000–150,000 km. However, in practice, it fails earlier due to moisture, temperature changes or power surges. Analogues serve on average 50,000–80,000 km.
Can the starter relay be repaired or is it just a replacement?
In most cases, the relay cannot be repaired - its body is sealed, and it is impossible to disassemble it without damage. The exception is contact oxidation, which can be eliminated by cleaning (for example, sandpaper P1000). But such repairs give a temporary effect.
Where to find the electrical diagram for your model Micra?
Official diagrams can be downloaded from the website Nissan (section Service Manuals) or found in electronic catalogs, for example, Mitchell1 or AllDataDIY. For Micra K13 the manual is also useful EWM3E-1U0MA0 (available on torrent trackers).