Description: The starter relay is high-current switch used in the starting circuit of some cars. The relay contains a set of windings and contact discs that move when energized. A starter relay is usually mounted to the firewall area underneath the hood.

Purpose: The starter relay makes and breaks the connection to the starter, based off a signal from the ignition switch. Since the relay handles the job of handling the high-current load to the starter, only a small amount of current flow is needed to activate the relay.