How to correctly turn off the auto start-stop function in RAV4?
2 Answers
RAV4 correct method to turn off the auto start-stop function: Simply press the auto start-stop button next to the cigarette lighter. More information about the auto start-stop function is as follows: 1. After enabling the auto start-stop function, while driving, just press the brake pedal directly, and the engine will automatically shut off after the vehicle comes to a complete stop for about two seconds. If you keep pressing the brake pedal, the engine will remain off. 2. As soon as you release the brake or turn the steering wheel, the engine will immediately restart automatically, and you can drive the car by pressing the accelerator pedal directly. 3. How the start-stop system works: When the vehicle stops moving in traffic, the driver presses the brake pedal, shifts to neutral, the Start/Stop system automatically checks, the engine idles without being in gear, the wheel speed sensors of the anti-lock system show zero, and the electronic battery sensor indicates there is enough energy for the next start. Once these three conditions are met, the engine automatically stops. When the traffic light turns green, the driver can press the clutch to start and quickly restart the engine.
I remember when driving the RAV4, the auto start-stop would always shut off the engine at intersections, and the jerky restart made me feel carsick. Turning it off is super easy—just find that round button on the center console with the 'A' icon or engine symbol, press it once, and when the light turns on, it means the feature is disabled. This way, the engine won’t auto start-stop, making the drive smoother, especially in stop-and-go city traffic. The RAV4 designed this function for fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness, but frequent restarts put extra strain on the battery, potentially shortening its lifespan. After driving it for a few years, I noticed that turning it off during rush-hour traffic significantly improved battery durability and ride comfort. For short trips or when quick acceleration is needed, disabling auto start-stop avoids unexpected delays. Make it a habit to check the button when starting the car to ensure safety and a better driving experience.
