Start Stop Issue

I'm having a perplexing issue with the start-stop system on my 2021 Ford Galaxy, hybrid engine. It's got about 50,000 km on the clock. The system seems to have given up; I get an error flagged in the memory, the engine cuts out as it should at lights, but then it won't automatically restart. Also, the start-stop warning light is illuminated on the speedometer. I've run some diagnostics and I suspect the battery might be heavily discharged or even defective, which I know can cause havoc with these systems. Has anyone experienced anything similar with their Galaxy?

4 comment(s)

A discharged or defective battery is a very plausible cause for the symptoms you describe. Have you load tested the battery to confirm its condition? Also, have you checked the battery's state of charge with a multimeter after the vehicle has been sitting overnight?

Thanks for the quick response! I haven't load tested it yet, but I did check the voltage after it sat overnight, and it seemed a little low, around 12.2V. Is there a specific voltage I should be looking for to rule out the battery as the culprit?

12.2V is indeed on the low side. A fully charged battery should read closer to 12.6V or higher. While it's not definitive without a load test, your findings strongly suggest a battery issue. Considering the error message and other symptoms, it would be prudent to have a workshop confirm the battery's condition and diagnose the start-stop system. You might also have a faulty cell.

Thanks for the confirmation and advice. I suspected as much, but it's good to have another opinion. I'll get it booked into the local workshop. I'll post the resolution once I have it. It was indeed the battery. Total cost including diagnostic and new battery: 290€.

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