How to Turn Off the Auto Start-Stop Function in BMW?
2 Answers
BMW's auto start-stop deactivation button is located on the engine start button. Simply press the "A-off" button manually to turn it off. The auto start-stop system is enabled by default when the key is powered on, and can be deactivated with a single button press. (Note: The light indicates the system is off.) Below is an introduction to the auto start-stop system: 1. Engine auto start-stop refers to a system that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a temporary stop (e.g., at a red light) and restarts it when needed to continue driving. Its English name is STOP-START, abbreviated as STT. The STT intelligent fuel-saving system controls the engine's start and stop operations. 2. Avoid using auto start-stop on slopes. If the engine doesn't restart when the brake is released on a slope, the vehicle may roll backward, so remember to turn it off. 3. If the air conditioning is set too low, it won't cool when the engine is off. However, if the system detects a significant difference between the cabin temperature and the set value, it may force the engine to restart, rendering the auto start-stop ineffective. 4. Always turn off auto start-stop when driving through water. For regular city driving, you can keep the auto start-stop function enabled.
I've been driving a BMW for several years and find the auto start-stop feature a bit annoying, especially in traffic jams where it keeps turning the engine off and on. To disable it, I usually press a button on the center console marked with an 'A' and a circular arrow—a quick tap turns it off, and a dashboard indicator light confirms deactivation. Just a heads-up: it reactivates automatically every time you restart the car, so I've made it a habit to switch it off immediately after starting to avoid driving distractions. While the feature does save fuel, frequent cycling accelerates battery wear, potentially making it less cost-effective long-term and compromising comfort. If you can't locate the button, check the owner's manual or explore settings in the iDrive menu. Bottom line: disabling it smoothens urban driving, particularly in congested areas.