I have a 2015 Malibu with auto start. I was told by the dealership that if there is a problem with the auto start battery located in the rear trunk fender that an instrument panel light should go on. I was also told that if there was a problem with auto start, that the engine wouldn't die and leave me stranded at a stop light. What should happen is that the engine should never turn off and just remain running. Based on people's statements here, that doesn't seem to be the case. Since my auto start battery is over 3 years old, it's probably a good idea to have it checked often and probably replaced sometime soon. Replacement at the dealership for that battery runs about $185, while at other places like Tires Plus quote a replacement price at about $130.

 

the auto start battery is not for engine restarts...its purpose is to supply auxiliary power while the engine is off. the main battery starts the vehicle. Some auto start system don't use the engine starter for restarts. the engine starter is used only for initial start up...auto starts will use the "new version of the alternator" to crank the engine over.

If the battery state of health is bad...the system should disable auto start. It does on new cars that are not fully charged. If the battery sensor is even temporarily disconnected the auto start will be disabled until it learns the state of health of the battery.

 

Thanks for clarification on the purpose of the auto start battery. I appreciate it.

 

My 2014 Malibu Eco fails to restart during stops. I have replaced both batteries. Double checked the wiring connections, changed spark plugs and cleaned the throttle body. Nothing seems to correct the problem. Just curious if anyone has been able to resolve this issue before?

 

how long since battery replacement?. It may take 2 days to relearn battery state of health.

 

I replaced both batteries back in December. So two months ago.

 

have you had any check engine lights on recently? My wife's 2014 Malibu recently got a check engine light on and she took it to orielys and they cleared it and I dont know exactly what the code was but she says it was something to do with intake camshaft position. Now her car just started acting up when it shuts off at red lights.

 

The check engine does not come on...basically the engine just fails to restart on it’s on so I have to switch the ignition off and then turn it back on. It will restart after about two or three attempts. Why Chevrolet did not install a by-pass control on this model is just crazy. It’s dangerous at times.

 

I am experiencing the same problem. When my car comes to a stop and auto stop is engaged, after releasing my foot off the break the vehicle tries to restart at least two times before shutting down completely. I’ll have to put the car on Park or neutral, turn the ignition key completely, “off as if I were going to take out the key” then turn it back on. Sometimes it turns back on and I’m able to go, other times it’ll take two or three times before it finally takes and turn the vehicle on so I can drive off. This issue has been going on for over two or three months now. Not only is it probably unsafe, extremely annoying, but most definitely embarrassing!

 

I am having the exact same issue with mine. The radio blacks out when the brake pedal is released and tries to restart. It is very concerning.