How to use the start-stop function in Audi A3?
3 Answers
Audi A3 start-stop function usage: 1. The automatic start-stop will temporarily turn off the engine. If the vehicle does not have auto-hold function, do not release the brake pedal - releasing it will immediately restart the engine; 2. Deactivating the start-stop function is not permanent, requiring the driver to turn it off each time they drive. It can also be permanently disabled by coding at a professional workshop; 3. Vehicles without hill-start assist should disable this function when starting on slopes to prevent rolling back. The Audi A3 is a compact car from Audi, equipped with two engines: a 1.4L turbocharged engine producing 150hp and 250Nm of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged engine delivering 190hp and 320Nm of torque.
On my daily commute in the A3, I frequently use the auto start-stop feature. Simply put, after starting the car, I don't need to do anything as the system activates it by default. When stopping at a red light by firmly pressing the brake, the car automatically turns off the engine, and a green auto start-stop indicator appears on the dashboard. To move again, just release the brake, and the engine immediately restarts. If frequent stops in traffic jams become annoying, pressing the round button with an 'A' among the center console buttons turns it off; pressing it again to light up the indicator reactivates the feature. I've noticed that the auto start-stop automatically deactivates when water levels exceed the wheel hub height during rain to prevent water from entering the engine. It also temporarily delays operation for a few minutes after refueling, presumably to allow the system to balance fuel pressure. Once you get used to it, saving over a thousand bucks on fuel annually is easily achievable.
Yesterday, I finally understood the start-stop function while driving my friend's Audi A3. This design is quite fuel-efficient. The system is enabled by default after starting the car, requiring no setup. The key is to press the brake pedal firmly to activate it: when waiting at a red light, pressing the pedal hard will stop the engine, with the tachometer dropping to zero and vibrations disappearing, while a small green leaf icon lights up next to the tachometer. When the car ahead moves, gently releasing the brake restarts the engine, smoother than the clutch engagement in a manual transmission. If the start-stop activates too frequently during reversing or in heavy traffic, press the button with an 'A' on the center console—the yellow light indicates it's turned off. The system automatically disables when the air conditioning is at maximum power to protect the compressor. It's recommended to use it sparingly during the break-in period and freely after the first maintenance.
