How to Turn Off the Auto Start-Stop Function on a BMW 5 Series?
3 Answers
To turn off the auto start-stop function on a BMW 5 Series, simply press the auto start-stop button located below the one-touch start button. Taking the 2021 BMW 5 Series as an example, it belongs to the mid-to-large-sized sedan category with the following dimensions: length 5106mm, width 1868mm, height 1500mm, wheelbase 3105mm, fuel tank capacity 68 liters, and curb weight 1705kg. The 2021 BMW 5 Series features a double-wishbone independent front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. It is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged engine delivering maximum horsepower of 184PS, maximum power of 135kW, and maximum torque of 290Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
As a BMW 5 Series owner, I often manually turn off the auto start-stop function during rush hour traffic jams because its frequent engine shutdowns and restarts are irritating, especially in congested urban areas where the repeated starts can also affect battery life. The method to turn it off is super simple—just press a button near the steering wheel or on the center console marked with a circle containing a capital 'A.' However, the system defaults to 'on' every time you start the car, so you’ll need to press it once after ignition. If you want to disable it permanently, you can do so via the iDrive menu, but keep in mind this might impact fuel efficiency optimization. I’ve tried it but recommend keeping manual control for greater flexibility. Remember, the button is easy to locate to avoid distractions while driving. For safety, turning it off can improve driving comfort if the startup noise is loud or traffic conditions are complex.
I've previously studied BMW's intelligent systems. The auto start-stop is designed for fuel efficiency, but the vibration upon restart can be quite uncomfortable. Turning it off is easy – there's a round button in the center console area with an 'A' symbol, pressing it takes immediate effect. Each time you start the vehicle, it automatically resets to the on state, so manual deactivation is required. For a more permanent solution, you can disable it permanently in the iDrive settings, though this comes at the cost of some fuel efficiency. I often remind friends that start-stop saves fuel during long red light waits, but in heavy traffic, it actually increases the burden of frequent restarts. Developing a habit of pressing the button right after ignition is practical – it's located next to the gear lever, easily identifiable by touch, ensuring safe operation while driving.
