What is the purpose of a starter relay?

A starter relay serves a crucial function in the starting system of a vehicle. Its primary role is to engage the starter motor efficiently by allowing a small current to control the larger current that powers the starter. When the ignition switch is turned to the "start" position, the relay receives a small current and closes the contacts, thereby supplying a significant amount of battery power to the starter motor. This operation helps to minimize the amount of current drawn through the ignition switch itself, which protects it from excessive wear or damage.

This action allows for a more reliable operation of the starter motor, providing the necessary torque to crank the engine while ensuring that the components are safely managed without having to carry the full load of the starter circuit through the ignition switch.