Code
P1160
RAM
P — Powertrain
Ignition Switch Run / Start Position Circuit
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Open, short, or high-resistance wiring between ignition switch and PCM/BCM
- Faulty ignition switch or worn contacts
- Corroded or loose connector at the ignition switch, fuse box, or PCM/BCM
- Failed starter relay, ignition relay, or blown fuse
- Defective PCM/BCM input circuit
- Aftermarket alarm, remote starter or wiring modification interfering with circuit
Symptoms
- No-crank or no-start condition
- Intermittent starting or only cranks sometimes
- Accessory or dash items not powered in RUN/START
- MIL (Check Engine light) or stored DTCs related to ignition/start circuits
- Electrical accessories behaving erratically while key is turned
What to check
- Read freeze frame and all stored codes with a scan tool; note any related codes
- Verify battery voltage and health before performing tests
- Visually inspect ignition switch connector, harness, and related grounds for corrosion, damage or loose pins
- Check relevant fuses and relays (starter/ignition/IGN) for continuity and operation
- Backprobe ignition switch terminals and PCM/BCM input while turning key through OFF/ACC/RUN/START
- Wiggle-test wiring and connectors while observing signal to reproduce intermittent faults
Signal parameters
- Battery feed to ignition switch: approx. 12.0–14.5 V (key OFF and with charging system on)
- IGN/RUN terminal: ~12 V when key turned to RUN; 0 V when OFF
- START terminal: ~12 V only while cranking (key in START position); 0 V when not cranking
- Expected continuity: ignition switch terminals to PCM/BCM input should show low resistance (a few ohms) when active
- Intermittent or partial voltage (low volts, slow rise) indicates high resistance or poor connection
Diagnostic algorithm
- Retrieve P1160 and any other codes; record freeze-frame and symptoms.
- Verify battery state of charge and tighten battery terminals.
- Inspect visually: ignition switch connector, steering column harness, fuse box, starter relay, and PCM/BCM connectors for damage or corrosion.
- Check related fuses and relays; swap known-good relay if available and re-test.
- Backprobe the ignition switch harness: measure voltage at BATT, IGN/RUN and START terminals while an assistant turns the key through OFF/ACC/RUN/START. Confirm expected voltages listed in signal parameters.
- Backprobe the corresponding PCM/BCM input pin(s) and confirm the signal present at the module matches the switch output. If switch has voltage but PCM sees none, suspect wiring or PCM connector.
- If voltage is intermittent, wiggle wiring and connectors to reproduce fault; repair chafe points, re-pin or replace corroded connector as needed.
- If ignition switch fails to supply proper voltages, remove and bench-test or replace the ignition switch assembly per service manual.
- If wiring and switch check good but PCM input incorrect, inspect PCM/BCM connector for damage and test module input circuit per manufacturer's procedures; consider module replacement only after wiring and switch ruled out.
- Re-scan and clear codes, perform a full function test (start/run) and road test to verify repair.
Likely causes
- Damaged wiring or poor connector at the ignition switch (most common)
- Worn or failed ignition switch
- Faulty relay or blown fuse affecting the RUN/START feed
- Intermittent connector corrosion or pin damage
- Vehicle security/immobilizer preventing proper run/start signal
Fault status
Status
Ignition Switch Run/Start Position Circuit — the control module detected that the ignition switch signal for RUN or START is absent, incorrect or out of expected range. May prevent engine cranking or running until underlying wiring, switch, relay, or module issue is resolved.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 0.5 - 2.0 hours
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