When cold the engine shuts off when starting it with the heater or stereo on?

Tiny
CYRUS96HOE
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 CHEVROLET TAHOE
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 250,000 MILES
So, I have the vehicle listed above that if I start it with heater or stereo on it will shut off and struggle to turn back on. However, if I wait until it warms up then they can both be on, and the truck will stay running.
Tuesday, April 11th, 2023 AT 6:17 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,709 POSTS
Hi,

I'm not sure about the radio, but the A/C can be causing an issue. The vehicle has an idle air control valve that is adjusted by the PCM to accommodate the added load on the engine from the A/C compressor. Just for curiosity, if you have everything related to the HVAC turned off and the radio on, does it still happen?

Let me know that. Also, let me know how old the battery is in the vehicle.

Additionally, take a look at this link. You may find it helpful.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/stall-at-idle

Let me know.

Joe
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Wednesday, April 12th, 2023 AT 8:32 PM
Tiny
CYRUS96HOE
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Yes, it will still do it. Also the battery is less then 5 months old.
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Wednesday, April 12th, 2023 AT 8:52 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,709 POSTS
Hi,

That is an interesting one. I would think if the battery was weak, it could cause it, but one would think any electrical component would cause it as well.

I suspect the first thing we need to do is confirm the alternator is producing a charge when the vehicle is first started. Maybe there is enough of a delay causing a low voltage situation until it is warmed up.

Here is a link that explains how to check it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

When you do this, do it when the vehicle would normally stall. Check it with the AC and radio on. Also, let me know if any modifications have been done to the radio. Make sure the battery terminals are both clean and tight.

Let me know. Also, let me know if the check engine light is staying on for you as well. This is likely a voltage-related issue, but determining the cause may be a little tricky.

Take care,

Joe
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Thursday, April 13th, 2023 AT 5:57 PM

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