100% Free

No Scanner Needed

Carly logo
Prices

MiriamJae

VW Atlas Start-Stop Failure Causing Random Engine Stalls

My automatic restart feature stopped working and now my engine stalls out of nowhere while driving. The warning light in the dash is on and the system stored some error codes. Has anyone experienced similar issues with their 2016 VW Atlas? Mine has the gas engine and about 105000km on it. Getting worried about taking it to a shop after my last mechanic visit went poorly. Any recommendations on what this could be and potential repair costs?

Summary of the thread

The conversation revolves around a VW Atlas experiencing issues with the start-stop system, leading to random engine stalls and warning lights. The problem is attributed to a failing battery and a potentially degraded starter motor, both crucial for the start-stop system's functionality. Solutions include replacing the battery with a start-stop compatible unit, possibly installing a new starter motor, and resetting the system to clear error codes. It's recommended to seek specialized VW service for accurate diagnostics and repairs, as these systems are sensitive to battery health and require specific expertise.

Did this summary help you solve your problem?

4 comment(s)

rudolfwolf5

The symptoms you describe closely match what happened with my 2013 VW Tiguan. The start-stop system began malfunctioning, causing unusual engine stalling and persistent warning lights. The root cause was a combination of a failing battery and a degraded starter motor specifically designed for start-stop systems. These starters are built differently from conventional ones since they handle many more start cycles. When they start failing, the car's computer detects the inconsistent behavior and disables the idle stop feature. The repair required: Complete battery replacement with a start-stop compatible unit, Installation of a new enhanced starter motor, System reset and recalibration, Clearing stored error codes This was a serious repair requiring specialized diagnostic equipment and VW-specific knowledge. The battery issue alone can cause multiple system malfunctions since modern cars need stable voltage for their electronic systems. Based on the symptoms, it sounds like your Atlas could have similar underlying issues. The start-stop system is very sensitive to battery health. When the battery shows signs of weakness, the system deactivates itself as a protective measure before more severe engine stalling occurs. Would strongly recommend having it checked at a shop that specializes in VW electrical systems rather than a general mechanic.

MiriamJae (community.author)

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Tiguan start-stop system issues. That matches exactly what my Atlas was doing last winter. The engine stalling was really concerning, especially when it happened at intersections. I had it fixed but was wondering how your repair costs compared to mine. Would you mind sharing what you paid for the battery and starter motor replacement? Also curious if youve had any other issues pop up since the repair, my start-stop system has been working perfectly but Ive noticed the engine sometimes takes an extra second to start on cold mornings.

rudolfwolf5

Great to hear your Atlas start-stop system is working properly again after the repair. In my case, the total came to 290€ for diagnostics and replacing the heavily discharged battery. The shop confirmed the starter motor was actually still in good condition, so I lucked out there compared to your situation. Since the battery replacement, the idle stop feature has been working flawlessly. The car computer needed a reset to clear the error codes, but after that, everything returned to normal. The unusual engine stalling completely stopped. Cold starts should normally be quick even in winter. That extra second you mentioned might be worth mentioning at your next service, the car battery needs to deliver maximum power for reliable cold weather starts. Modern start-stop systems are particularly sensitive to battery performance. The key is catching battery issues early before they affect other electrical components. Regular battery health checks can prevent more expensive repairs down the line.

MiriamJae (community.author)

I decided to take my Atlas to a certified VW shop last month. The total repair came to 850€, definitely not cheap but worth it for peace of mind. They replaced both the battery and starter motor since both were showing signs of wear. The mechanic explained that the original battery wasnt compatible with frequent start-stop cycles anymore, which caused the engine stalling issues. The new enhanced starter motor was expensive but specifically designed for eco mode and idle stop features. The diagnosis took about an hour using their computer system. They cleared all error codes and recalibrated the engine start system. The whole job was done in one day. Since the repair, the automatic restart works perfectly and no more scary stalling incidents. That slight delay on cold starts you mentioned, mine went away after they adjusted some settings during the repair. The mechanic said the battery needs time to deliver full power in cold weather. Much better experience than my previous shop visit where they couldnt even properly diagnose the hybrid vehicle systems. Sometimes paying more for specialist knowledge saves money in the long run.

rmh_community_comment_box_header

community_crosslink_scanner_headline

community_crosslink_scanner_intro

community_crosslink_scanner_title

community_crosslink_scanner_price

community_crosslink_rmh_headline

community_crosslink_rmh_intro

community_crosslink_rmh_title

community_crosslink_rmh_subtitle

community_crosslink_rmh_brand

VW

community_crosslink_rmh_model

ATLAS