Newer Volkswagen cars often have a common issue - they display the "Start-Stop Error" message whenever you start the vehicle. Owners have been trying hard to cope with the issue but it appeared to be pretty strong and doesn't want to go away. Dealers also say it's normal and don't want to dig into the issue to find its roots.
Start/stop system error highlights
- Common reasons:low 12V battery, software issues, starter problems
- How to fix:check and charge the batteries, read the codes
- Possible consequences:start/stop won't be working
- Priority level:Low
- Can you drive?Yes
- DIY repair:Possible
- Repair price range:$200-$400
Checking on the symptoms
Just to make sure we are on the same page, here's what kind of problem I will describe in this short article.
- You start the vehicle.
- Everything works just fine.
- Suddenly you see an "Error: start/stop system" message on the dash.
- After some time it goes away.
- Each time you start the car (or randomly) the message will reappear.
- It can also pop up at any time when you are driving.
You may activate or deactivate the start-stop system using the designated button - anyway, the annoying message will pop up and take your attention. Also, it annoys you because the new car shouldn't show all these kinds of error messages. So, what should you check?
What does the dealership say?
I asked the Volkswagen dealership about the problem and they didn't acknowledge this was a common issue with new Volkswagen cars, especially the T-Cross and Tiguan, as forum members stated.
I got a pretty dry answer from the dealership saying that the most obvious reason is that the owner starts the car too soon. They mean, you need to give the vehicle some time to pump up the fuel pressure (about 2 seconds) before you actually start the car.
This is interesting but doesn't seem like a real issue. And still, you may try it, especially if this is stated in the driver's manual. So, with a key it's completely clear - just wait two or three seconds with the key in the "ignition on" position before you move it to the engine cranking position.
With the button, it's a little different. The pump should automatically build up the needed pressure. But you can try turning the accessory mode before starting the car. For this, press the engine start button without pressing the brake pedal. And in several seconds, press the brake pedal and press the start button again.
What are the issues, in my opinion?
Well, there are several possible issues apart from "starting the car too soon", as Volkswagen dealer claims. Here they are:
1) A glitchy start-stop system
Unfortunately, forums are full of different proofs that the VW start-stop system in new cars is a piece of not very good smelling stuff. The problems are various but they all prove one thing: the system is faulty and may surprise you with numerous issues like stalling in the middle of the road and not starting unless you wait for several minutes.
The start-stop system error message is just common for modern Volkswagens and the system probably needs new software or deep inspection of sensors and wiring. Only the dealer may do this due to the special tools and knowledge required.
2) Low battery
The start-stop system is completely dependent on the car battery. Whether this is a single-battery car or a hybrid, the battery that operates the start-stop system should always be working properly and have the proper voltage. If the voltage is down even 0.2 volts, you will get this message.
New AGM batteries that are used in start-stop vehicles, are not really durable, especially if you drive a lot in the city. If they show 12.2 or 12.3 volts when the engine is not working, they are done. You need to recharge them. And if this doesn't help, just replace them.
3) EVAP canister problems
Surprisingly enough, the EVAP canister in modern Volkswagen cars is not really durable and can fail. I don't know what magic happens in the brains of these VW cars and how EVAP can actually affect the start-stop system, but the evidence tells us that the EVAP issues may result in this message popping up on the dash.
Have the EVAP canister inspected well if you struggle to locate the actual problem triggering the start-stop system error message.
Final thoughts
Unfortunately, some of the reasons for this issue are still ghost reasons and we can't locate them. What I can say for sure is that Volkswagen has some problems with self-diagnostics and throws messages that don't have any relation to actual problems. This is bad because it makes you spend some money and time on inspections and eventually fail to find the actual problem.
I recommend you go to the dealer and insist that they should find the problem and solve it. This is the only way you can actually get the car inspected properly and eventually find the problem that triggers the start-stop system error message.
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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