VW Transporter Stalling Issues, Starter Motor Problems

I had a similar issue with my VW Caddy from 2011, and as someone with moderate car repair experience, I understand your frustration with engine stalling and start-stop system problems. My vehicle showed similar symptoms: unreliable engine start, complete failure of the idle stop feature, and warning lights. After several failed attempts to diagnose it myself, I took it to a workshop. Their diagnostic revealed that despite the battery appearing fine on basic tests, it was actually failing under load and couldn't maintain proper voltage for the start-stop system functions. The solution involved replacing the AGM battery specifically designed for start-stop systems. The total repair cost was 290€, including programming the new battery to the vehicle management system. The entire process took about 2 hours. Before suggesting specific solutions for your case, could you provide: Exact engine type (diesel/petrol, engine size), Current battery age, Whether eco mode works normally, Any recent electrical modifications, Full error code from the workshop computer These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced or if its something different requiring other solutions.

Just had my 87355km service done last month, and I completely agree about checking the battery system thoroughly. The AGM battery replacement suggestion makes sense, as I have seen the voltage fluctuating on my dashboard display as well. My start-stop system also failed gradually before the complete shutdown started happening. The error code from the workshop computer is P0601, which points toward internal control module problems. The car battery voltage readings are inconsistent even after performing a basic charging system test. The starter motor seems to struggle more during cold starts. Would you mind sharing what specific battery brand and specs were used in your repair? Also interested in whether any recalibration was needed after the battery swap.

Thanks for the additional details, those symptoms definitely align with what I experienced on my Caddy. The P0601 code initially had me concerned about the control module too, but in my case, it was triggered by voltage inconsistencies from the failing battery affecting the module readings. For my repair, I used a Varta Silver Dynamic AGM (70Ah/760A) battery which was specific for vehicles with start-stop system capabilities. The higher amp rating was crucial since the automatic restart function demands more power than traditional starting systems. The recalibration was essential, without proper programming, the car battery management system wouldnt recognize the new battery characteristics correctly. The workshop had to use their diagnostic tool to reset the battery management system and input the new battery specs. This ensured the start-stop system worked efficiently and prevented false error codes. Given your mileage and symptoms, especially the voltage fluctuations and cold start issues, I would strongly recommend getting the battery load tested. A standard voltage check often misses the underlying capacity issues that affect start-stop system performance. My repair completely resolved the warning lights and unusual shutdowns. The starter motor performance improved significantly, and the automatic restart feature works flawlessly now. Just make sure whoever does the work is familiar with hybrid vehicle electrical systems and battery programming.

Thanks for all the detailed information about the Varta AGM battery solution. The specifications match exactly what my system needs, and your explanation about the programming requirements is particularly helpful. Those cold start issues have been really worrying me. I checked the battery manufacturing date and discovered its over 5 years old, which explains the voltage fluctuations and engine start problems. The car battery definitely seems to be the core issue rather than the control module, especially since the P0601 error appears inconsistently. I will schedule an appointment with my workshop to have them perform a proper load test and likely proceed with an AGM battery replacement. The 290€ cost seems reasonable considering it includes the programming work. Hopefully, this will resolve both the automatic restart failures and the unusual shutdown issues. Will update once the repair is completed. Really appreciate the specific details about the battery specs and recalibration process, exactly what I needed to move forward with fixing these issues.