how to turn off car turning off when stopped

[Terry]

The feature you're describing is called auto start-stop, and it's designed to save fuel by automatically shutting off the engine when the car is stationary. You can almost always turn it off by pressing a button on your dashboard or center console, typically marked with an "A" inside a circular arrow. However, it will reactivate every time you start your car.

This system is common on modern vehicles to improve fuel economy, especially in city driving. When you come to a complete stop (like at a red light), the engine cuts off. It restarts instantly when you release the brake pedal. While it saves gas, some drivers find the engine restart jarring or are concerned about starter motor wear.

The most direct way to disable it is to look for the auto start-stop off button. Its location varies by manufacturer but is often near the gear selector or climate controls. Pressing it will deactivate the system for the current drive cycle. Be aware that permanently disabling it usually requires more complex procedures, like using an aftermarket module or a specific sequence of actions that may void your warranty. For most daily drivers, using the button each time you start the car is the simplest and safest solution.

Common Vehicle Brands	Typical Location of Disable Button	Method for Temporary Disable
Ford	Center console, below climate controls	Press "A with Arrow" Button
Chevrolet/GMC	Center stack, near infotainment screen	Press "A with Arrow" Button
Jeep/Ram	Dash, below infotainment system	Press "A with Arrow" Button
BMW	Near gear shifter or below start button	Press "A with Arrow" Button
Mercedes-Benz	Dynamic select menu or dedicated button	Use drive mode selector or button
Honda	Lower left dash, near steering column	Press "ECON" or "A with Arrow" Button
Hyundai/Kia	Center console or dash	Press "A with Arrow" Button

[DiWeston]

I get it, that shudder when the engine kicks back on drives me nuts in traffic. My Ford has a button right on the center console with an "A" and an arrow around it. I just hit it the second I start the car. It becomes a habit, like buckling your seatbelt. It stays off until I turn the car off and back on again. Simple fix for a smoother commute.

[LeAnthony]

From a technical standpoint, this is an emissions and fuel economy feature. While you can disable it per drive cycle with the button, permanently deactivating it isn't recommended for the average owner. It often involves accessing the engine control unit (ECU) and could affect your vehicle's compliance and warranty. The starter and battery are heavy-duty components designed for the extra cycles. The fuel savings, though small per stop, add up over time in city driving.

[DiFaith]

Check your owner's manual first—it'll show you exactly where the button is. If your car doesn't have a button, try putting it in a different drive mode. For example, in my car, putting it in "Sport" mode automatically disables the start-stop. It's a two-for-one: sportier throttle response and the engine stays running. It's worth exploring your car's settings menu, as some models let you adjust the system's sensitivity.

[VanAlex]

Honestly, I used to turn it off every time, but I’ve gotten used to it. I live in a city with a lot of stoplights, and I’ve noticed I get about one or two more miles per gallon on a tank of gas. That adds up. I just rest my foot firmly on the brake when I want the engine off, and if I need to creep forward, I ease up slightly and it stays running. It’s not so bad once you learn how it works.