Suzuki Ertiga Start-Stop Failure Causes Engine Stalls

Having faced a similar issue with my 2017 Suzuki Vitara, I can share my experience as someone with moderate car repair knowledge. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I encountered, engine stalling, problematic start-stop system behavior, and warning lights. Initially, mechanics focused on the start-stop system itself, but it turned out the root cause was a failing battery. The battery showed enough voltage when tested statically, but under load it was severely discharged and couldn't maintain proper voltage for the start-stop system to function reliably. The engine control unit was receiving inconsistent power, triggering various fault codes and causing unexpected engine stalling. The repair shop performed: Full battery load test, Charging system diagnostic, ECU fault code analysis, Start-stop system calibration Total cost was 290€ including a new AGM battery specifically designed for vehicles with start-stop technology. To help diagnose your case more precisely, could you share: Current battery age, Whether issues occur more frequently when using power-hungry features, If the problems started gradually or suddenly, Whether eco mode affects the stalling frequency The Ertiga uses a similar electrical system architecture, but knowing these details would help determine if you are facing the same root cause.

Service record shows 60557KM, and the intermittent engine stalling issue started appearing about 2 weeks ago. The battery load test revealed inconsistent voltage output, matching your diagnostic path. The starter motor engages but struggles, especially during automatic restart attempts. After checking voltage drops in the system, our mechanic found the alternator was not charging properly, causing the start-stop system to malfunction. Replacing the alternator resolved most warning lights and restored normal start-stop functionality. The engine control unit needed a reset to clear lingering fault codes. Total repair cost was 420€ including parts and labor. For others experiencing similar symptoms, verify both battery health and charging system output before assuming the start-stop system itself is faulty. A failing alternator can mimic various electrical system problems.

Thanks for the detailed follow-up. Your alternator diagnosis makes perfect sense, as it matches the common failure pattern in these Suzuki models. When the charging system starts failing, it often creates a cascade of electrical issues affecting multiple systems. The alternator replacement price of 420€ is actually quite reasonable. On my Vitara, I initially only replaced the battery but had to return a month later for an alternator replacement which cost 580€. The battery issue was masking the underlying alternator problem. A key indicator that helped identify the failing alternator in both our cases was the engine stalling combined with erratic start-stop behavior. The system requires consistent voltage to operate properly, when the alternator cant maintain proper charging, the battery drains quickly causing the engine control unit to behave unpredictably. For future reference, monitoring these symptoms early can prevent getting stranded: Battery warning light flickering, Dimming headlights at idle, Engine stalling when multiple electrical accessories are used, Start-stop system disabling itself intermittently Smart move getting it fixed at 60557KM, these alternators typically start showing problems around that mileage range.

Thank you for validating my diagnostic approach! The detailed symptoms you listed perfectly describe what I was experiencing. Recording the vehicle data will help track if any related issues develop. You raise a good point about how alternator problems can mask themselves as battery issues. The eco mode and idle stop features definitely put extra strain on the charging system. When the alternator started failing, these systems were the first to show problems. The voltage inconsistency caused by the worn alternator explains why the engine start attempts were so unreliable. Car battery voltage would drop too low during cranking, especially when using the automatic restart feature. Glad I caught it before getting stranded somewhere. The 420€ repair cost was worth it to restore proper function and prevent potential damage to other electrical components. Really appreciate you sharing your similar experience, it helped confirm we were on the right diagnostic track. Will definitely keep an eye on those warning signs you mentioned in case any charging system issues return. The engine stalling and erratic start-stop behavior were the key symptoms that led us to the root cause.