Is the Auto Start-Stop Light On Indicating Activation or Deactivation?
2 Answers
When the auto start-stop light is on, it indicates that the feature is deactivated. Upon initially starting the vehicle, the auto start-stop system is enabled by default, and the light remains off. Pressing the button to illuminate the light signifies that the auto start-stop function has been turned off. Each time the car is restarted, the auto start-stop system defaults to being active; it is not permanently disabled with a single press. When auto start-stop is deactivated, there will be a notification on the dashboard—a yellow light with a symbol of a circle 'A' accompanied by the letters 'OFF'. The display for auto start-stop may vary depending on the vehicle model; some models show a circle 'A' with a slash. The engine auto start-stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a temporary stop (such as at a red light) and restarts it when it's time to move forward again.
I've been driving for over twenty years, and when the auto start-stop light is on, it means the system is turned off. The light being off indicates that it's working normally. This design is mainly to prevent the engine from automatically shutting down in traffic jams or under unfavorable conditions, such as during a cold start or when the battery is low—the light will automatically come on to protect the car. Experienced drivers often turn it off manually because frequent start-stops can feel annoying or unsafe. The button is usually located on the dashboard, with a yellow icon indicating it's disabled when the light is on, and green when it's off, meaning enabled. If the light stays on, check if you accidentally pressed the switch or if there’s a fault warning from the car.
