Starting System - Overview (G1772538): Overview

The starting system consists of an electric starter motor that engages with the ring gear on the crankshaft drive plate. Operation of the starter motor is controlled by the Engine Control Module (ECM).

The starting system incorporates an Auto stop/start system in some markets. The system is controlled by the ECM using Controller Area Network (CAN) bus messages and signals from other system components and modules to determine the correct conditions for system operation. The Auto stop/start system automatically stops and re-starts the engine when appropriate conditions are met. This reduces the amount of time the engine is running at idle speed which improves economy and reduces engine emissions. This provides advantages for vehicles which spend time in congested environments, for example waiting at traffic lights or frequent stopping and starting in traffic queues.

The advantages of the Auto Stop/Start system are:

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions significantly reduced
Fuel consumption improved.

NOTE: Fuel economy and emissions reduction will vary depending on driving style and traffic conditions.

The system is automatically activated each time an ignition cycle occurs and is operational in 'DRIVE' and 'SPORT' transmission positions. The driver can disable the system by operating the Auto stop/start switch on the Integrated Control Panel (ICP).

The Auto stop/start system stops the engine when it is not needed, this is known as auto stop. The engine will restart automatically when vehicle parameters are met and the driver removes their foot from the brake pedal, this is known as auto start. The engine will be at full operating speed before the driver's foot reaches the accelerator pedal.

The Auto stop/start system is fully integrated into the vehicle electrical systems and other system modules communicate to determine if an auto stop or start is viable.

The Auto stop/start system uses a Voltage Quality Module (VQM), to ensure sufficient battery power is available for repeated engine starts without affecting the operation of the vehicle systems. Refer to: Battery Disconnect and Connect (General Procedures).