WHAT IS AUTO STOP START?
By: Mike Hewlett
Since regularly being installed in the majority of production vehicles in the U.S., we’ve fielded numerous questions regarding Automatic Stop/Start Vehicle Systems from our guests. Please find below the answers to the most asked questions:
What is an Automatic Stop/Start vehicle system?
The auto restart (Stop/Start) technology feature that is found on our newer vehicles automatically shuts down the internal combustion engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop, and then restarts the engine promptly after the gas pedal is pushed.
Why do we now have Stop/Start technology in our vehicles?
In response to the air pollution reduction guidelines found within the Federal Clean Air Act (CAA), vehicle manufacturers were forced to develop ways to both improve fuel efficiencies for their vehicles as well as reduce tail pipe emissions. Auto Stop/Start vehicle systems are one piece of this complicated emissions puzzle. (Some studies claim up to a 10% increase in fuel efficiencies.)
Do these Start/Stop systems use traditional wet cell battery technology?
No. Due to increased demands, Stop/Start systems use an Absorbent Glass Matt (AGM) battery. AGM batteries offer near-zero maintenance because of their design. They never need watering, can be positioned on their side, work well in low temperatures, and are vibration resistant.
How many AGM batteries does my vehicle have?
Most of our newer models (2020+) will still just have one AGM battery. However, this one battery is now responsible for both the initial vehicle start and the Start/Stop functionality. If you have an older vehicle, you may have a dual battery system that was designed to ensure that restarting capability would not be compromised during a stop event. In these dual battery systems, the primary battery is dedicated to the starting function, while a secondary battery manages power demand during stops. Not sure? Please see a friendly Hewlett Service Advisor to identify your vehicle’s specific set up.
Why are Start/Stop Batteries more expensive?
Start/Stop car batteries are generally more expensive than normal car batteries due to their advanced construction and technology. However, the higher price is offset by their longer lifespan and durability (average AGM battery life = 6 Years).
Can I put a traditional wet cell battery in a Stop/Start car?
Never install a conventional wet-cell battery in a vehicle with a Start/Stop function that is equipped with an AGM battery as a factory standard.
Do you need a special battery charger for a Stop/Start battery?
Check what kind of battery your vehicle has: If your car has start/stop technology, you'll have an AGM battery. A conventional charger isn't suitable for these types of batteries, and you'll need a 'smart' charger instead.
Can I jump start my AGM battery from a traditional battery vehicle or using a jump box?
Yes. Since you’re not trying to ‘charge’ the battery, a temporary ‘jump’ is OK.
(Fun fact: most portable jump boxes use an AGM battery as the power source.)
Is auto Start/Stop bad for starter motor?
The easy answer is, “No.” Starters in vehicles equipped with this new tech are made differently. These starters are optimized to turn the motor more slowly, which increases its longevity.
Can’t I just ‘Delete’ the Start/Stop functionality on my vehicle?
Dealerships cannot help you modify your vehicle in this way, and with all the integrated technologies running through the various vehicle data computers it’s just not worth the potential damage risk to your vehicle or your wallet. (Any modifications or aftermarket reprogramming that causes damage to your vehicle or its systems will not be covered by any warranty.) GM has provided the means to easily deactivate this feature after vehicle startup, but this action will need to be repeated after each new key cycle.
We hope after reading this article you now have a better understanding of the Auto Stop/Start System found in your vehicle. While a lot of us may have a Love/Hate relationship for this tech the potential fuel savings and improved emissions should help to lessen any brief daily inconvenience experienced. Thanks for your business and please call on our amazing team the next time we can provide friendly, professional vehicle support for you, your family or place of business!
By: Mike Hewlett
Since regularly being installed in the majority of production vehicles in the U.S., we’ve fielded numerous questions regarding Automatic Stop/Start Vehicle Systems from our guests. Please find below the answers to the most asked questions:
What is an Automatic Stop/Start vehicle system?
The auto restart (Stop/Start) technology feature that is found on our newer vehicles automatically shuts down the internal combustion engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop, and then restarts the engine promptly after the gas pedal is pushed.
Why do we now have Stop/Start technology in our vehicles?
In response to the air pollution reduction guidelines found within the Federal Clean Air Act (CAA), vehicle manufacturers were forced to develop ways to both improve fuel efficiencies for their vehicles as well as reduce tail pipe emissions. Auto Stop/Start vehicle systems are one piece of this complicated emissions puzzle. (Some studies claim up to a 10% increase in fuel efficiencies.)
Do these Start/Stop systems use traditional wet cell battery technology?
No. Due to increased demands, Stop/Start systems use an Absorbent Glass Matt (AGM) battery. AGM batteries offer near-zero maintenance because of their design. They never need watering, can be positioned on their side, work well in low temperatures, and are vibration resistant.
How many AGM batteries does my vehicle have?
Most of our newer models (2020+) will still just have one AGM battery. However, this one battery is now responsible for both the initial vehicle start and the Start/Stop functionality. If you have an older vehicle, you may have a dual battery system that was designed to ensure that restarting capability would not be compromised during a stop event. In these dual battery systems, the primary battery is dedicated to the starting function, while a secondary battery manages power demand during stops. Not sure? Please see a friendly Hewlett Service Advisor to identify your vehicle’s specific set up.
Why are Start/Stop Batteries more expensive?
Start/Stop car batteries are generally more expensive than normal car batteries due to their advanced construction and technology. However, the higher price is offset by their longer lifespan and durability (average AGM battery life = 6 Years).
Can I put a traditional wet cell battery in a Stop/Start car?
Never install a conventional wet-cell battery in a vehicle with a Start/Stop function that is equipped with an AGM battery as a factory standard.
Do you need a special battery charger for a Stop/Start battery?
Check what kind of battery your vehicle has: If your car has start/stop technology, you'll have an AGM battery. A conventional charger isn't suitable for these types of batteries, and you'll need a 'smart' charger instead.
Can I jump start my AGM battery from a traditional battery vehicle or using a jump box?
Yes. Since you’re not trying to ‘charge’ the battery, a temporary ‘jump’ is OK.
(Fun fact: most portable jump boxes use an AGM battery as the power source.)
Is auto Start/Stop bad for starter motor?
The easy answer is, “No.” Starters in vehicles equipped with this new tech are made differently. These starters are optimized to turn the motor more slowly, which increases its longevity.
Can’t I just ‘Delete’ the Start/Stop functionality on my vehicle?
Dealerships cannot help you modify your vehicle in this way, and with all the integrated technologies running through the various vehicle data computers it’s just not worth the potential damage risk to your vehicle or your wallet. (Any modifications or aftermarket reprogramming that causes damage to your vehicle or its systems will not be covered by any warranty.) GM has provided the means to easily deactivate this feature after vehicle startup, but this action will need to be repeated after each new key cycle.
We hope after reading this article you now have a better understanding of the Auto Stop/Start System found in your vehicle. While a lot of us may have a Love/Hate relationship for this tech the potential fuel savings and improved emissions should help to lessen any brief daily inconvenience experienced. Thanks for your business and please call on our amazing team the next time we can provide friendly, professional vehicle support for you, your family or place of business!
