What You Will Read in This Article:
- What is a HOT START FIX?
- Cause of the HOT START problem?
- What are the symptoms of the HOT START problem?
- What problems does HOT START bring?
- How to solve the HOT START problem?
- Software related to solving the HOT START problem:
What is a “HOT START FIX”?
If you are the owner of a diesel vehicle, you have probably experienced that your vehicle starts well and works efficiently in cold weather, but sometimes it doesn't start or takes a relatively long time to start in hot weather (or even after several hours of continuous driving). If your vehicle is several years old, you are more likely to have experienced this issue. But where is the problem?
We're here to tell you that the problem lies in the ECU, and you are facing a hot start issue. But what is a hot start?! Stay with us to find the answer.
Cause of “The HOT START Problem”?
If you have a diesel vehicle, you probably have experienced hot start problems and may even have some knowledge about it. Starting a diesel engine is completely dependent on the ECU and is beyond the driver's control. Starting the engine relies on pre-programmed tables and settings in the ECU, and for this, the engine needs to reach a specific and pre-set rpm. In fact, pressing the gas pedal does not assist in this process.
In general, if the vehicle manufacturer has placed temperature restrictions on the engine, you are likely to encounter hot start problems. These temperature restrictions that manufacturers place on the engine are usually done through parameters such as TIT (Turbine Inlet Temperature) and EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature).
However, please note that the failure to start your car can also be caused by other factors such as a faulty starter motor, weak battery, or engine coolant temperature sensor issues. For example, electrical problems or faults in the car's wiring, which often occur due to reasons such as a short circuit in the starter wire (or similar issues), can cause excessive resistance in the wire and result in difficulties in starting the car. Another reason for the failure to start your car is a problem with the fuel system. In situations where the engine is overheated, the fuel delivery system's efficiency, as well as the engine's performance, decreases. In these cases, the presence of vapor prevents the fuel from circulating, leading to difficulties in starting the car. A clogged air filter, a faulty electric valve, low intake air pressure, loose battery terminals, and similar issues can also be among the reasons for the failure to start or starting difficulties in your car.
What are The Symptoms of “The HOT START Problem”?
As mentioned, if your vehicle doesn't start or doesn't start well during the warm seasons, unlike the cold days of the year, or even if the engine needs several minutes of rest after running and heating up before starting again, chances are you have a hot start problem with your vehicle. Additionally, any signs of a bad start such as slow starting, starting without the engine running, etc. can indicate a hot start problem.
What Problems Does HOT START Bring?
Hot Start problems can be very dangerous. In situations where you have an urgent need for your vehicle or even in a dangerous situation where you need to start and move as quickly as possible, Hot Start problems can become a burden. Besides that, Hot Start problems can also force you to repair and replace parts, which will result in excessive expenses for the vehicle owner.
How To Solve “The HOT START Problem”?
We explained earlier that the problem with your Hot Start depends on the sensors, ECU, and initial settings of the manufacturer. For this reason, solving this problem also depends on the ECU itself, its tables, and its settings. The hot start has a specific table that is present in the ECU, and accurately identifying and making changes to it can free you from the problem of the hot start and provide you with safe and peaceful driving.
If you own a VAG or any other brand that has a hot start issue, ECU remapping can be a very suitable and cost-effective solution for you.
Software Related To Solving “The HOT START Problem”:
At CaracalTech Company, we have the complete ability to identify and make changes to HOT START FIX tables in all related ECUs, based on years of experience in the calibration and ECU remap field. Here, resetting the maps related to HOT START FIX can be done using various techniques. In addition, training on the operation of the HOT START MODULE and the method of HOT START FIX in ECUs is available so that with just one proper training session, you can identify and select the HOT START tables in the relevant software and make the necessary changes.
❗Below, you can see sample images and tables related to the HOT START area in software such as Swiftec and WinOLS.
❗Here, you can learn about hot start fix principles once and for all and apply them to various vehicles. HERE is a link to the tutorial video on hot start fix in different software and ECUs.
❗You can watch our tutorial ECU Tuning Course.
📍If needed, you can upload your files in our Tuning File Service section, so that we can make the desired changes for you in different ECUs in the shortest time.
📍For more information and probable problems feel free to contact us: support@caracaltech.com