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Introduction
Frequently asked questions
Question
What are the series of clicks from
the cargo area when I first turn
the key in the ignition?
Why does the engine sometimes
start at key-on?
After I start my car in the
morning, why does it take a long
time before the engine shuts
down?
Why does my engine never shut
down above 40 mph (65 km/h)?
10
2012 Escape Hybrid (ehv)
Owners Guide, 1st Printing
USA (fus)
Answer
The high voltage battery is
electrically isolated from the rest
of the vehicle when the key is off.
When the key is turned to on, high
voltage contactors inside the
battery are closed to make the
electricity available to the
motor/generator and enable the
vehicle to drive. The clicks are the
sound of these contactors as they
close and open during start up and
shut down.
The vehicle's computer will
determine if an engine start is
necessary for cabin heating or
windshield defrost. The engine will
also be started when ambient
temperatures are low.
There are several reasons the
engine stays on for an extended
amount of time when it is first
started. One common reason is to
ensure that the emissions
components are warm enough to
minimize tailpipe emissions. As the
climate gets cooler, this
"engine-ON" time is extended.
The engine is required to turn on
above this speed to protect the
transaxle hardware.
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