How to Turn Off the Engine Auto Start-Stop Function
4 Answers
Methods to turn off the engine auto start-stop function: The owner can directly press the auto start-stop button (usually a circular arrow containing the letter A), and the dashboard will indicate that the system is turned off; if you want to use this function again, simply press the button to turn it back on. The engine auto start-stop function automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a temporary stop (such as at a red light) and automatically restarts the engine when it's time to move forward again. The engine auto start-stop system enhances the traditional engine by incorporating an idle start-stop function, allowing the engine to completely shut off when the vehicle meets the conditions for idling.
As a long-time car modification enthusiast who frequently helps fellow drivers, I suggest you first look for the button near the dashboard, usually marked with an 'A' and an arrow symbol. Most cars can turn it off with a single press, but it automatically reactivates after restarting the engine. German cars can permanently disable it by unlocking hidden functions, while Japanese models require installing an auto start-stop interceptor. This feature wears out the battery with frequent activations, which is why I keep mine permanently disabled. Remember, it's only worth activating at traffic lights exceeding 30 seconds – short stops actually increase fuel consumption, a detail many manuals omit. Be cautious about voiding electrical system warranties during modifications, and always opt for professional installation.
Just talked about this with the mechanic at the repair shop last week! Actually, that button with a circular arrow symbol on the lower left of the steering wheel is the switch - a lit yellow indicator means the system is deactivated. Our taxi fleet keeps this feature turned off by default – with hundreds of start-stop cycles daily, the battery wouldn’t last half a year. For older models, you can simply unplug the start-stop sensor connector located near the negative battery terminal. Newer vehicles require an OBD-port deactivator, which costs around 100 yuan. But be cautious during rainy seasons – manually reactivate start-stop when wading to prevent engine damage from secondary ignition if the engine stalls.
I still remember being startled the first time I drove a car with auto start-stop. At a red light, the steering wheel suddenly vibrated, and I thought it was a malfunction. Later, the salesperson taught me to find the switch with an "A" under the air conditioning panel. Now that I'm used to it, I've discovered the trick: lightly pressing the brake doesn't trigger the start-stop, only pressing hard will shut off the engine. In winter, when using the heater, I have to turn it off, otherwise the warm air turns cold after the engine stops. Some high-end cars can remember the settings, but mine requires turning it off every time I start the car. I looked up tips on my phone, and it's said that using a start-stop-specific battery can extend its lifespan.
