Where is the starter relay located on a 2008 Dodge Avenger?
The starter relay on a 2008 Dodge Avenger is located inside the under-hood power distribution center (the black fuse/relay box) on the driver’s side of the engine bay. If the car won’t crank, this relay is a common point to inspect. This article explains how to find it and what to check.
Where to Look in the Engine Bay
Begin with these steps to pinpoint the exact relay and verify labeling.
- Open the hood and locate the under-hood fuse/relay box (power distribution center) on the driver’s side of the engine bay, near the fender and strut tower.
- Lift the lid to access the relays inside.
- Look for a relay labeled START, ST, or S on the top or side; consult the diagram on the inside of the lid for exact labeling.
- Identify the starter relay by its position in the diagram and note the terminal arrangement (typically 4 or 5 pins).
- If no START label is visible, use the diagram to match relay positions; the starter relay is one of the relays in the PDC.
Once you've identified the starter relay, you can test it or swap it with a known-good relay of the same type to rule out a faulty unit. Handle carefully and avoid contact with exposed terminals.
What the starter relay looks like
Most relays in the under-hood box are small rectangular blocks with several pins (commonly 4 or 5). The cover diagram helps you confirm which one is the starter relay. Some relays may be in-line with larger power cables; if the diagram can’t be read clearly, note the relay’s position relative to the battery and other components.
Alternative Locations and Variations
There are a few layout differences depending on the exact engine and trim; if the PDC doesn’t show a clearly labeled START relay, try these possibilities and consult the diagram if needed.
- The Power Distribution Center can be located near the battery on the driver’s side or the passenger side in some trims; the lid’s diagram will indicate the correct relay.
- In rare cases on certain production runs, the starter relay may be found in the interior fuse box (central junction box) behind the glove compartment; check the manual for your exact configuration.
- For the 2.7L or 3.5L engines used in this generation, the same PDC labeling applies, but layouts can vary by market or production date; verify with the diagram on the cover.
When in doubt, consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or a Chrysler service diagram for the precise relay location by VIN. A dealership or qualified mechanic can confirm the layout for your specific vehicle.
Testing and Troubleshooting
If you suspect the relay is at fault, use these steps to verify the circuit without unnecessary part replacement.
- With the ignition in the START position, check that the relay’s input side (the terminal connected to the battery) has 12V. If not, there may be a circuit issue upstream or a blown fuse.
- Check the control signal side of the relay (the trigger from the ignition switch). When the key is turned to START, there should be a drive signal (often 12V on the control terminal); lack of signal points to a switch or wiring problem.
- Swap the starter relay with another identical relay from a known-good circuit (for example, the horn relay) to see if the starting function follows the relay.
- Inspect all related connections and grounds at the battery, starter solenoid, and wiring harness for corrosion, looseness, or damaged insulation; repair or clean as needed.
These checks help determine whether the starter relay is the root cause or if the issue lies elsewhere in the starting circuit. If testing points to a faulty relay, replacement with a correct-spec part is advised; if not, a deeper electrical diagnostic may be required.
Summary
For a 2008 Dodge Avenger, the starter relay is typically housed in the under-hood power distribution center on the driver’s side of the engine bay. Start by removing the PDC cover and locating a relay labeled START or S, using the lid’s diagram to confirm the correct unit. If labeling is unclear or layouts vary, refer to the owner’s manual or service diagrams. When troubleshooting, test the input and control sides of the relay, swap with a known-good unit, and inspect related wiring and grounds. A professional diagnostic may be needed if the issue persists.
