Auto Start-Stop Restart Failure
2016-2016 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 EcoBoost
The 2016 Ford Explorer is equipped with a 3.5L V6 turbocharged gasoline engine. Below you'll find detailed p3601 diagnostic code information including labor time estimates, cost ranges, and technician notes specific to this engine configuration.
Description
The engine failed to restart after an auto start-stop event. The starter engaged but the engine did not reach running speed or stalled immediately.
Symptoms
- Engine did not restart at green light
- Starter cranking prolonged after stop
- Dashboard warning lights illuminated
- Vehicle rolled in traffic
- Hazard situation created
Common Causes
- Starter motor degradation
- Fuel pressure drop during stop
- Engine position sensor error
- Low battery voltage during crank
- Intake manifold vacuum leak
Diagnostic Steps
- Check starter motor engagement force
- Monitor fuel pressure during and after stop
- Test battery voltage during restart crank
- Check engine position sensor signal
- Inspect intake manifold for vacuum leaks
Repair Notes
Replace starter motor if engagement count is high. Check fuel system for pressure retention. Critical safety issue - disable start-stop until resolved.
Related Codes
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0013Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0014Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0015Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P3601 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P3601 mean on a 2016-2016 Ford Explorer?
P3601 stands for "Auto Start-Stop Restart Failure". The engine failed to restart after an auto start-stop event. The starter engaged but the engine did not reach running speed or stalled immediately.
What are the symptoms of P3601 on a Ford Explorer?
Common symptoms of P3601 include: Engine did not restart at green light, Starter cranking prolonged after stop, Dashboard warning lights illuminated, Vehicle rolled in traffic, Hazard situation created.
What causes P3601 on a 2016-2016 Ford Explorer?
Common causes of P3601 include: Starter motor degradation, Fuel pressure drop during stop, Engine position sensor error, Low battery voltage during crank, Intake manifold vacuum leak.
Last updated: March 2026
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