How to Turn Off Auto Start-Stop Technology in Cars?
3 Answers
Owners can directly press the auto start-stop button (usually a circular arrow enclosing the letter A), and the dashboard will indicate that the system is turned off. Although auto start-stop can help save fuel and reduce operations, it also has drawbacks: 1. Higher maintenance costs for the battery and starter: Frequent engine starts and stops can cause damage to related components, such as the starter and battery. Although vehicles equipped with auto start-stop systems use enhanced starters and batteries, in actual use, their failure rates are higher than those of ordinary vehicles without auto start-stop systems. 2. Poor user experience: The design of auto start-stop systems varies among different models from various brands. Some models have less optimal start-stop logic, with poorly timed interventions. For instance, the system may not activate during prolonged stops but unexpectedly engages with a light brake tap at toll booths. Additionally, the noticeable noise and vibration during startup are among the most criticized drawbacks by passengers. 3. Increased fuel consumption in traffic jams: In severe traffic congestion, prolonged engine shutdowns can lower the combustion chamber temperature, causing unburned hydrocarbons and paraffin to form carbon deposits on the cylinder walls. These deposits can increase fuel consumption and reduce power. Ironically, the auto start-stop feature, designed to lower fuel consumption, may end up increasing it.
I always prefer to turn off that auto start-stop feature—it's so annoying. After getting in the car, look for the button near the dashboard with an 'A' letter or a circular arrow symbol, and press it until the indicator light turns on. Most vehicles require manually disabling it every time you start the engine, though a few luxury brands allow you to set it to remember the off position. This feature keeps restarting the engine repeatedly in traffic jams, making the steering wheel vibrate, which really ruins the driving experience. Plus, frequent starts put a huge strain on the battery—replacing a dedicated one costs over 2,000 yuan. I’ve made it a habit now to press that button right after starting the car, treating it like an extra safety step.
Having worked in a repair shop for ten years, I've seen too many people complain about auto start-stop. The method to turn it off is simple: just find the 'Start-Stop' or 'A' button on the center console and press it to light it up. However, the key point to note is that the start-stop function has extremely high requirements for the battery. A regular battery will last at most two years before it's ruined. I recommend owners who keep it turned off for long periods to switch to an AGM start-stop battery. Although it's more expensive, it can withstand the wear and tear. Additionally, some car models can permanently disable the function through the OBD port by reprogramming the computer, but improper operation might mess up the system, leading to expensive recovery costs. If you really don't know how to do it, just drive to the shop—it'll be done in ten minutes.
