Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Auto Start Stop
The auto start stop system helps reduce fuel consumption and decrease emissions by automatically shutting down the engine when the vehicle stops and the engine is idling, usually within 1500 ms (1.5 seconds). To initiate the auto start stop operation, the vehicle gear selector must be in DRIVE when the vehicle comes to a stop and the brake pedal must be fully applied. The engine automatically restarts when the brake pedal is released, usually within 200 ms (0.5 seconds), or when a vehicle system requires a restart, for example to recharge the battery or to maintain interior comfort settings.
The auto start stop system is defaulted to an ON state when the engine is started. To switch the auto start stop system OFF, press the auto start stop switch located on the center console. To turn the auto start stop system ON, press the auto start stop switch again. The auto start stop system can only be deactivated during the current ignition cycle.
The IPC auto start stop indicator illuminates when an auto start stop system inhibit or disable condition is present.
During normal operation the auto start stop system may not stop the engine under the following conditions:
- The A/C, heat or defrost settings are ON
- The rear defroster is ON
- The battery has a low state of charge or is below 5°C (41°F) or above 60°C (140°F)
- The maximum engine off time is exceeded
- The engine operating temperature is less than 60°C (140°F)
- The gear selector is in the PARK, REVERSE, NEUTRAL or SECOND GEAR position
- The steering wheel is turned rapidly or is at a sharp angle
- Initial vehicle speed of greater than 4 km/h (2.5 MPH) and less than 2 seconds has elapsed
- The vehicle is on a steep road grade
- Elevation is above 10, 000 feet (3, 048 meters) approximately
- The CPP sensor indicates the clutch pedal is fully released
Any of the following conditions may result in an automatic restart of the engine:
- The blower fan speed is increased or the climate control temperature is changed
- An electrical accessory is turned ON or plugged in
- Incorrect brake vacuum
- The auto start stop switch is pressed to disable the system while the engine is stopped
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.