How to Start the Engine Separately in a Hybrid Car?

[JamesonFitz]

The computer automatically controls it, and the engine will intervene when a certain speed is reached. It can also be manually controlled to switch between hybrid and pure electric modes directly. Shift the gear from D to S. After the sport mode is activated, the electronic control unit will increase the engine speed to keep the car with sufficient torque. The sport mode will force charging, which takes about one minute. The engine will automatically shut down when the shutdown conditions are met. Press the accelerator to the floor twice in P gear, then press it to the floor twice in N gear, and then press it to the floor twice again in P gear to open the maintenance mode. Use the accelerator to control the engine speed.

[Cassidy]

It's actually quite troublesome to start the engine alone in a hybrid car, as the system simply doesn’t have a dedicated button for that. My usual method is to switch to Sport mode + S gear and stomp on the accelerator, which basically forces the computer to start the engine. I’ve done this before while waiting in line at a charging station. The safest way is to let the battery level drop below the red line, and the system will automatically start the engine to recharge. If there’s a malfunction, just follow the prompts on the dashboard—but don’t mess around with the high-voltage system yourself! Hybrids and fuel-powered cars are completely different in structure, with the battery pack located under the chassis. Forcing a manual engine start not only damages the electronic control system but might also trigger error codes. If it’s really necessary, it’s safer to visit a 4S shop and use diagnostic tools for the operation.

[McZachary]

The hybrid engine starts automatically under system control, and regular drivers really don't need to force it to start. I often drive hybrid cars on highways, and the engine naturally kicks in when I press the accelerator hard. If you want to rely solely on the engine for driving, switch to sport mode and enable the charge priority setting—this will prompt the system to start the engine. Here's a trick for summer when you're running the AC but don't feel like charging: hold the P-gear button for about ten seconds while stationary. Some models will force-start the AC compressor and simultaneously activate the engine for charging. I've tested this on a Lexus hybrid, and it works, but frequent use can shorten the lifespan of the traction battery.

[Dakota]

Tried a few methods: quickly pressing the accelerator twice can forcibly wake up the engine, and flooring the pedal in charging mode can also trigger it. Once, a repair technician taught a workaround: using diagnostic equipment to enter engineering mode and modify parameters. But regular car owners shouldn't try this, as incorrect parameters may cause the hybrid system to report errors. Hybrid systems come with their own protection logic—the engine only starts to recharge when the battery level is critically low. Normally, it's best to let the vehicle's system manage itself.