VW Nivus Stalling Issues: Start-Stop System Failure

I had a very similar issue with my 2019 VW T-Cross. As someone with some experience working on cars, I initially thought it was just the start-stop system acting up, but it turned out to be more serious. The symptoms were identical, engine stalling, start-stop system failure, and problems with automatic restart. After the car battery warning light appeared, I took it to a workshop. Their diagnosis revealed a heavily discharged battery that was no longer holding proper charge, affecting multiple systems including the starter motor. The fix included: Complete battery testing and replacement, Starter motor system check, Reset of the idle stop functionality, Full diagnostic scan to clear error codes Total cost was 290€ which included parts and labor. Since the repair, all systems are working perfectly again, including the start-stop feature. To better assist with your case, could you share: How old is your current car battery? Does the problem occur more frequently when the engine is cold or warm? Are there any other electrical issues like dim lights or slow power windows? Have you noticed any correlation with weather conditions? This information would help determine if youre dealing with the same battery-related issue or potentially something else.

Last service was at 115000km and I just checked my battery date code, its the original from 2021. After your message, I got my voltmeter out and the battery shows only 11.9V when off and 13.8V while running. This could explain the engine stalling issues Im experiencing. The battery seems to be struggling to maintain proper voltage, especially when using multiple electrical systems. The problems do seem worse in cold weather and the power windows have been sluggish lately. The engine stalling happens more frequently when the car is warm, especially when Eco mode is active. Based on your experience and these symptoms, it sounds like I might be dealing with a similar battery issue. Getting a proper diagnostic scan done soon to confirm before replacing any parts.

Thanks for the detailed update about your voltage readings and symptoms. Your situation definitely mirrors what I experienced with my VW. The 11.9V reading while off is particularly telling, a healthy battery should show around 12.6V. The sluggish power windows and cold weather correlation match exactly what happened with my T-Cross before the battery failed completely. The engine stalling during warm operation with Eco mode points strongly to the start-stop system struggling with insufficient battery power. My hybrid vehicle also showed similar voltage readings before the battery replacement fixed everything. One temporary workaround I discovered was disabling the automatic restart system until you can get it properly fixed, though this isnt a long-term solution. Your vehicle is showing the classic signs of a failing battery that can no longer support the demanding start-stop system. Since your battery is original from 2021, its at the age where problems typically begin, especially with frequent start-stop cycles. Consider getting this addressed soon, my repair cost might be a good reference point for budgeting. Waiting too long could leave you stranded when the battery eventually fails to provide enough power for a starter motor engagement. Have you noticed if the warning lights become more frequent during short trips?

Thanks for sharing those detailed repair costs, really helpful. Yes, the warning lights do show up more during short trips, usually after multiple start-stop cycles. Just yesterday it happened twice during a quick 10-minute drive. After comparing our symptoms and battery readings, Im pretty convinced its time for a battery replacement. The starter motor seems fine when the battery has enough juice, but clearly the original battery isnt keeping up with the demands of the start-stop system anymore. Going to book it in next week for a full diagnosis and likely battery replacement. Will stick to your suggestion about disabling the Eco mode temporarily until then. The quote I got was actually close to what you paid, 310€ for parts and labor. Appreciate all the information about your experience. It really helped confirm my suspicions about the battery being the root cause rather than a more serious engine or starter motor issue.