How to Turn Off the Auto Start-Stop Function in the New BMW 5 Series?

[LaJaxson]

The method to turn off the auto start-stop function in the new BMW 5 Series is to simply press the auto start-stop button. The auto start-stop button is located in front of the gear lever, marked with a circle containing the letter 'A' and the word 'OFF' beside it. Mid-to-high-end models are equipped with both auto start-stop and auto hold functions, eliminating the need to press the brake pedal, thus reducing foot fatigue and improving the vehicle's fuel economy. The new BMW 5 Series is available in two versions: a fuel-powered version and a plug-in hybrid version, and offers two exterior packages: the M Sport package and the Luxury package. The car's dimensions are 4998mm in length, 1901mm in width, and 1559mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3070mm.

[SanTalia]

When driving the new BMW 5 Series, I noticed that the auto start-stop function defaults to on every time the car starts. Turning it off is actually quite simple. After getting in and starting the ignition, look down at the center console slightly below the middle, where there's a button with an 'A' symbol—usually grouped with the air conditioning buttons. Press it firmly, and the dashboard will display a 'Auto Start-Stop Deactivated' message. Although the steps aren't complicated, the hassle is that you have to repeat this process every time you restart the car, as the system doesn’t remember the last setting. I usually turn it off for daily city driving, especially during rush hour traffic jams, where frequent start-stop cycles can wear down the battery and reduce comfort. To permanently solve this memory issue, you’d need to visit a professional tuning shop to enable hidden programming.

[LeMaximus]

Anyone who has driven a BMW 5 Series knows the auto start-stop can be annoying. I've figured out how to disable it: Within 30 seconds after engine startup, immediately locate the physical button near the air conditioning controls marked with an 'A' inside a circular arrow. When pressed, you'll feel distinct haptic feedback - that's when you won't hear the engine shutting down anymore. Quick action is crucial, otherwise the system reactivates automatically upon detecting driving intent. I strongly recommend disabling it before driving through waterlogged roads during rain - an automatic restart with water ingress could cause catastrophic engine damage. While manufacturers enable it by default for fuel efficiency metrics, most drivers like me prioritize comfort in real-world driving situations.

[AmaraMarie]

The auto start-stop deactivation button for the new BMW 5 Series is located in the gear lever area, featuring an illuminated 'A' icon. Pressing it triggers an animation on the central display to confirm deactivation status. Through multiple tests, I've observed that firmly depressing the brake pedal when stopping activates the system, whereas gentle braking to a halt keeps the engine running. While such nuanced operation can temporarily circumvent activation, manual deactivation remains the most reliable solution. Many are unaware that BMW's start-stop module connects to the battery sensor, and frequent activation may accelerate battery wear—particularly during winter short-distance commuting, where immediate deactivation upon starting is advisable. Permanent deactivation requires installing a start-stop eliminator module, though this voids the manufacturer's warranty.

[OParker]

Every time I start my BMW 530Li, I do three things: fasten the seatbelt, adjust the seat memory, and turn off the auto start-stop. The button is located to the left of the driving mode selector knob, a metal-textured button with the letter 'A'. Pressing it will illuminate a yellow indicator light below the tachometer on the instrument panel. I've specifically noticed that with the start-stop turned off, the air conditioning cooling efficiency is higher, and the compressor doesn't shut off at red lights. If I forget to turn it off in city traffic, the repeated engine starts cause noticeable vibrations, which is less smooth compared to Japanese cars. Some car enthusiasts say switching to Sport mode automatically turns off the start-stop, but my tests show it only works when shifting to S gear.

[VanRuth]

New 5 Series owners should remember three key points about disabling the auto start-stop: the physical button is located on the left side of the second row of the central air conditioning panel; it must be operated before the vehicle moves; and it needs to be turned off again every time the car is started. According to the manual, the system is designed to activate the start-stop function when the speed exceeds 9 km/h after starting, so pressing the button early is the most reliable. In special circumstances, such as low battery power or when the heater is on, the system will automatically disable the start-stop function, but this passive deactivation is unstable. Some modification shops can program the system to remember the setting, with prices ranging from 800 to 1500 yuan. Additionally, modifications like changing the rims or reprogramming the ECU may accidentally reset the start-stop settings, so extra caution is needed.