What to Do When the Engine Start-Stop Light Keeps Flashing?
2 Answers
The engine start-stop light keeps flashing, possibly due to a faulty clutch switch or damaged battery negative sensor, and requires immediate inspection at a 4S shop. The engine start-stop technology is a system that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a temporary stop (e.g., at a red light) during driving. When using the automatic start-stop system, the following precautions should be noted: 1. Turn off the start-stop in heavy traffic. Stop-and-go traffic not only causes engine vibration but also increases fuel consumption and places a burden on the engine. 2. Turn off the start-stop when going uphill or downhill. 3. Turn off the start-stop when using air conditioning. The vehicle's electrical power may not be sufficient to maintain air conditioning, affecting comfort. 4. Turn off the start-stop when wading through water. Braking while wading may create negative pressure in the exhaust pipe, allowing water to enter. Restarting the engine under such conditions could lead to severe engine damage.
When I see the engine start-stop light flashing continuously, my first reaction is to check the car's status. The start-stop system heavily relies on the battery and sensors, and flashing usually indicates a system issue, possibly due to insufficient battery power, as older cars have smaller battery capacities, and the system automatically stops when the voltage drops too low. Temperature is also a major factor; the system is prone to false alarms when it's too hot in summer or below freezing in winter. Additionally, sensor dust accumulation or malfunctions can cause issues, much like a camera struggling to see clearly. I recommend safely pulling over immediately, turning off unnecessary devices like the air conditioning and radio to recharge the battery. If the system returns to normal after driving for a while, then it's fine. But if the flashing persists, avoid DIY fixes and head to a repair shop for professional diagnostics with specialized equipment. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the sensor areas and replacing the battery periodically, can extend the system's lifespan. This not only saves fuel and money but also reduces unexpected delays.
