Buick Rainier Stalls: Bad Auto-Restart System

Had similar symptoms with a 2008 Buick Enclave. The unusual engine stalling combined with start-stop system failures pointed directly to a battery issue. The check engine light was also constantly illuminated. The root cause was a heavily discharged battery that could no longer hold proper charge. These symptoms typically appear gradually, first with occasional stalling, then progressing to more frequent issues with the start-stop system. The repair required: 1. Full battery diagnostic test 2. Replacement of the original battery 3. Reset of the engine control module 4. Testing of the alternator to ensure proper charging The problem turned out quite serious since a failing battery can damage other electrical components. The alternator works harder trying to maintain charge in a bad battery, which can lead to premature alternator failure. After the battery replacement, all systems returned to normal: No more unusual engine stalling, Start-stop system functioning correctly, Check engine light cleared, Proper idle stop operation restored Worth checking the battery age and condition before the problem escalates to more expensive repairs involving the charging system or electronic control units.

Thanks for following up on my Buick stalling issue. Glad to hear you found a similar case, definitely matches what I am experiencing with the unusual engine stalling and start problems. I went ahead and got it checked based on your suggestion, and you were spot on about the car battery being the culprit. Quick question, do you remember roughly what you paid for the full repair including the battery replacement and system reset? Also, has your Buick given you any other electrical issues since fixing the battery? Mine has been running better after the repair but I noticed the eco mode light flickers occasionally.

Thanks for the update on your Buick. The total repair cost for my battery issue came to 290 for the complete service, including the new battery, diagnostics, and system resets. Since the fix, the start-stop system has worked flawlessly with no more engine stalling incidents. Regarding your eco mode light flicker, I actually did not experience any electrical issues after the battery replacement. The idle stop feature and all other systems have remained stable. That flickering might warrant a quick check of your electrical connections, as loose terminals can sometimes cause intermittent electrical symptoms even with a new battery. The hybrid vehicle features like eco mode and start-stop systems are particularly sensitive to proper battery voltage. Your mechanic might need to verify all connections are clean and tight to ensure consistent power delivery to these systems. Happy to report my Buick has been trouble-free since addressing the battery problem over a year ago. The engine start sequence works perfectly every time, and the idle stop activates normally at traffic lights.

Thanks everyone for the helpful advice. After visiting my mechanic yesterday, they confirmed and fixed the battery issue. The total came to 275 for parts and labor, pretty close to what others paid. They found some corrosion on the terminals which explained the flickering eco mode light. The engine start system now works perfectly, no more stalling or manual restarts needed. The automatic restart kicks in smoothly at stops, and the check engine light has stayed off. They also cleaned all the connections and ran a full system diagnostic just to be safe. Really relieved it was just the battery and not something more serious with the engine. Learned my lesson about getting these symptoms checked early before they lead to bigger problems. The car runs like new again.