How to Use the Auto Start-Stop Function in the Audi A3?

[LaAmy]

Audi A3's auto start-stop function is used as follows: 1. The engine shuts off before coming to a complete stop or when the vehicle is stationary while the brake pedal is still pressed, indicated by a light on the display and the tachometer needle moving to the 'ready' position; 2. Release the brake pedal to restart the engine; 3. If the parking brake is engaged or the start assist system is active, the engine will only restart when the accelerator pedal is pressed, and the indicator light will turn off. Taking the 2021 Audi A3 as an example, it is a compact car with a front track of 1543mm, rear track of 1514mm, and a curb weight of 1400kg.

[MaverickLynn]

When I first started driving the Audi A3, I also found the auto start-stop system quite mysterious, but now I'm quite comfortable with it. Every time I start the car, the start-stop system is enabled by default. You can find the button with an 'A' letter and 'OFF' marking in the center console area. Just press it to deactivate the system—the button light will turn on when it's switched off. This feature is most practical at traffic lights: the engine automatically shuts off when the car comes to a complete stop, and it restarts when you release the brake and lightly press the accelerator. However, there are a few things to note. For example, it may not activate if the heating is turned up high in cold weather or if the car battery has insufficient charge. I find it particularly fuel-efficient in urban areas with frequent traffic lights, but in stop-and-go traffic jams, manually turning it off feels more comfortable—otherwise, the frequent starts and stops can put significant wear on the starter motor.

[SanArthur]

The auto start-stop system is actually quite cleverly designed, primarily for fuel efficiency and environmental protection. In my Audi A3, if no warning light appears on the dashboard after starting the engine, it means the system is already activated. When waiting at a red light and pressing the brake pedal firmly, the engine shuts off quietly, and a green 'A' indicator lights up on the dashboard. There's no need to shift gears or press any buttons; simply releasing the brake pedal will restart the engine. However, this feature has its quirks: it won't work if the steering wheel isn't straightened or if the hill descent control is active; it also refuses to operate if the battery temperature is too high or too low. I've also discovered a little trick—it's best to turn off the auto start-stop when reversing into a parking space to avoid the sudden engine shutoff startling you. It's recommended to use this feature after the break-in period, as it might be a bit unstable during the first few months with a new car.

[LeTucker]

Using the auto start-stop feature in an Audi A3 is not complicated at all. There's a circular button with an "A" near the steering wheel—press it once after starting the car to turn it off, and press it again to turn it on. The key is to watch for the dashboard indicator—a green light means the system is active. It's very simple to use: the engine stops when you press the brake pedal all the way down, and it restarts when you release the brake or turn the steering wheel. However, the battery must be in good condition—a weak or aging battery will cause the system to fail. Cold weather and using the heater can also reduce its sensitivity. Once, I forgot to turn it off on a rainy day, and the engine suddenly shut off while driving through a puddle, which really startled me. So, I remind everyone to manually disable this feature during heavy rain—safety first.