Automatic Engine Start/Stop
Exiting the vehicle without first shifting into P (Park) may cause the vehicle to move. You or others may be injured. Because the vehicle has the automatic engine start/stop feature, the vehicle's engine might seem to be shut off; however, once the brake pedal is released, the engine will start up again.
Shift to P (Park) and turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF, before exiting the vehicle.
Vehicles with eAssist have an automatic (auto) engine start/stop feature. After the engine has started and reached operating temperature the auto stop feature may cause the engine to turn off when brakes are applied and the vehicle has come to a complete stop. When the brake is released or the accelerator pedal applied, the engine will start. The engine will continue to run until the next auto stop or until the ignition switch is turned OFF.
AUTO STOP on the tachometer signifies that the engine is in auto stop mode. When the vehicle is turned off, the tachometer will move to OFF. If the driver door is opened while in auto stop mode, a chime will sound.
To restart the engine during auto stop, release the brake pedal or press the accelerator pedal. The engine starts immediately. The engine continues to run until the next stop.
There are several conditions which may prevent an auto stop or cause an auto start.
The Engine Will Remain Running When:
- The engine, transmission, or hybrid battery is not warmed up.
- The outside temperature is less than -15°C (5°F).
- The air conditioning or defrost system requires the A/C compressor to maintain vehicle comfort.
- The shift lever is in any position other than DRIVE.
- The hybrid battery pack charge is low.
- The 12-volt vehicle battery charge is low, or loads are high.
- The hood is not fully closed.
The Engine Will Restart When:
- The brake pedal is released.
- The accelerator pedal is applied.
- Shifting out of D (Drive) to any other gear.
- If the eco air conditioning button is selected, the duration of the auto stop will mainly depend on the outside temperature along with some other factors. This economy mode improves fuel economy by limiting the effects of the air conditioning. The warmer it is outside, the shorter the time before the engine is restarted to provide cabin cooling.
- The climate control system is turned from off to normal air conditioning or defrost.
- The engine is required to run for either heater or climate control performance.
- The hybrid battery pack charge is low and requires recharging.
- Auto stop time is greater than two minutes.