The engine is overheating or underheating. A larger starting current is needed if the engine must create its heat via combustion if customers or the batteries do not heat it. As a result, pressing the start button does nothing.
Eco Start-Stop technology, an idle-stop system, is incorporated in newer automobiles to improve gas mileage and reduce pollution.
When the vehicle stops, such as at a traffic signal or for an extended time while idling, the engine is turned off by the system and restarted when the brake is released.
However, the Eco Start-Stop mechanism may fail in unexpected situations. Explore more to know more Why is my eco start stop not working?
6 Reasons Why is my eco start stop not working?
Low Battery Charge
A dead battery is a common cause of the Eco Start-Stop mechanism failing to activate. A fully charged battery is essential for the system to work properly and allow for a prompt engine restart. The system can shut down automatically if the battery charge is too low.
How to fix: Use a multimeter to measure the current and voltage of the car’s battery. If the battery voltage is low, you should charge or replace it.
Insufficient Engine Temperature
The Eco Start-Stop system will not activate until the engine reaches the ideal temperature, which might prevent it from doing so in specific scenarios. The system may temporarily disable this function to prevent excessive engine wear during cold starts.
How to fix: Allow the engine to warm up by driving the vehicle for a few minutes before expecting the Eco Start-Stop system to activate.
Engine Malfunctions or Faulty Sensors
If the engine has problems or the sensors aren’t working properly, the Eco Start-Stop feature may be disabled.
The system may remain inactive if any of the sensors it relies on function improperly. These include the sensors that detect when the brake pedal is depressed, when the engine is hot, and when the battery is low.
How to fix: Scan the engine and electrical systems to check for trouble codes. If problems are found, you should immediately get help from a professional technician.
Low Brake Fluid Level
The brakes play a crucial role in properly operating the Eco Start-Stop system. The system’s ability to prevent unsafe situations is compromised if the brake fluid level is low.
How to fix: Make sure the reservoir has enough brake fluid, and add more if needed. Check for leaks or other problems in the braking system if the brake fluid level keeps dropping.
Air Conditioning or Defrosting Requirements
The Eco Start-Stop feature may be disabled under scenarios when a large demand for cooling or defrosting occurs quickly. To provide the highest level of passenger safety and comfort, the system may deactivate if necessary to keep the interior at the set temperature.
How to fix: Make any necessary adjustments to the Eco Start-Stop system’s air conditioning settings or defrosting needs.
Temporary Disablement/Manual Override
The Eco Start-Stop feature can be temporarily deactivated or overridden by the driver in certain instances. It is possible that the system is not active because drivers have deactivated it out of personal preference or because they are driving on rough terrain.
How to fix: To manually activate or deactivate the Eco Start-Stop feature and verify its current setting, it is recommended to consult the vehicle’s user handbook.
FAQs
Can stop-start be disabled?
For a limited time, you can disable Auto Start-Stop. Use the dashboard’s dedicated Auto Start-Stop Off button to turn it off. Don’t forget that you’ll have to undo this change every time you start your automobile.
Does auto start-stop drain your battery?
The battery is drained even by the gas-saving features. “For instance, many individuals are equipped with start-stop, which causes the engine to cut out when you approach a stop sign. As Quincy pointed out, gas is conserved, but the car’s battery is used heavily at the subsequent restart.
How long should a stop-start battery last?
This battery has an expected lifespan of between three and five years. AGM batteries are excellent for high-powered vehicles with stop/start systems. They typically have a longer shelf life than EFB batteries. The EFB battery is ideal for frequently starting and stopping small electric systems.
Does Eco mode drain the battery?
The engine doesn’t have to work as hard while the eco mode is engaged. Therefore, the car’s battery doesn’t have to work as hard. Cost reductions: An increase in fuel efficiency reduces the frequency with which you must refuel, saving you money.
Does Eco start-stop save fuel?
Yes, by turning it off, it will conserve whatever gasoline the engine would have used when the car was stopped (in heavy traffic, for example, or while waiting for the lights to change).
How much fuel do start-stop systems save?
Start-stop systems are designed to cut down on fuel use. According to Edmunds.com, the potential fuel savings range from 3% to 10%. You might save more money on petrol if your breaks are longer. If a car typically gets 20 mpg, a start-stop system might boost it to roughly 22 mpg.
Final Verdict
The Eco Start-Stop system is a great addition that helps save money on petrol and the environment. However, several things may go wrong and make the system cease functioning properly. Vehicle owners may efficiently troubleshoot the issue by learning about the possible causes behind the system’s failure and adopting the proposed fixes.
After exhausting all possible troubleshooting steps, it’s best to take the car to a professional technician or the dealership for an official diagnosis and repair.
To maximize the Eco Start-Stop system’s benefits to the environment and fuel economy, performing routine maintenance and repairs on your vehicle is important.