John Deere 1321.05 – Engine Control Unit (ECU): Engine Starter Solenoid Lockout Relay Circuit Has High Resistance
Issue description
The control module has detected high electrical resistance in the starter solenoid lockout relay drive circuit. High resistance typically indicates an open circuit, a broken wire, or poor/corroded electrical connections. When this fault is active, the control module may limit or disable the starter solenoid function, preventing the engine from cranking or starting properly.
Applies to these machines
43 machines- 5085E
- 5090E
- 5090EL
- 5100E
- 5085M
- 5100M
- 5100MH
- 5100ML
- 5115ML
- 5090M
- 5115M
- 6110M
- 6120M
- 6130M
- 6145M
- 6155M
- 6175M
- 6195M
- 6110R
- 6120R
- 6130R
- 6145R
- 6155R
- 6175R
- 6195R
- 6215R
- 370E
- 410E
- 460E
- 770G
- 770GP
- 772G
- 772GP
- 318D
- 320D
- 210L EP
- 210LJ
- 540G-III
- 548G-III
- PowerTech 3029
- PowerTech 4.5L
- PowerTech 6.8L
- PowerTech 9.0L
Check the cause
Check for intermittent faults to determine if the DTC periodically goes away, which indicates a loose connection rather than a hard failure.
Visually inspect the starter solenoid lockout relay (neutral start relay) and its wiring harness for signs of physical damage, corrosion, or loose terminal connections.
Turn the key switch to the ON/START position and listen for an audible 'click' from the relay to verify activation.
Use a digital multimeter to measure the resistance in the relay circuit, tracing the wiring from the ECU to the relay to identify the exact point of high resistance or open break.
Repair steps
Disconnect Power
Always disconnect the battery or turn off the master disconnect switch before performing electrical repairs.
Repair Wiring/Connectors
If the multimeter test revealed an open circuit or high resistance in the harness, repair or replace the damaged wires, connectors, or ground terminals to restore proper circuit continuity.
Replace the Relay
If the wiring is intact but the relay failed the activation test (or shows internal high resistance), remove the defective starter solenoid lockout relay and install a new OEM replacement.
Clear Codes and Test
Reconnect the battery. Reset the ECU to clear the 001321.05 error code. Cycle the key and test the starter system to confirm the engine cranks and the code does not return.
Parts you might need
(3)Starter Relay / Neutral Start Relay / Starter Solenoid Lockout Relay
Exact relay part number will depend on the specific machine's serial number.
12-Volt Starter Relay
RE164448Commonly fits 3000, 4000, 7000 series tractors, and various combines/cotton strippers
Starter Relay
RE234727Commonly used in modern John Deere heavy equipment
Get help to fix this fault by requesting a quote