What Auto Start-Stop Does and Why You Might Disable It
Auto start-stop is a feature that automatically shuts off your engine when you come to a complete stop — at a red light, in traffic, or at a stop sign — and restarts it when you press the accelerator or release the brake. The system is designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions during city driving, where you spend time idling.
Many drivers disable this feature because it can feel jarring, wear out the starter motor faster, interfere with certain driving situations (like holding position on a hill), or straightforward because they find the constant stopping and starting annoying. The good news is that most vehicles with this feature include a button or menu option to turn it off, and the process takes seconds.
Key Takeaways
- Most vehicles with auto start-stop have a dedicated button on the dashboard or steering wheel that toggles the feature on and off with a single press.
- If your vehicle does not have a physical button, you can usually disable auto start-stop through the infotainment system menu or instrument cluster settings.
- Disabling auto start-stop is permanent for that driving session only — the feature will reactivate the next time you start the vehicle unless you turn it off again.
- Some vehicles allow you to set auto start-stop to stay off by default, which requires accessing the vehicle settings menu during setup or through the owner's manual instructions.
Finding the Auto Start-Stop Button
The easiest way to disable auto start-stop is to locate the physical button, which is usually labeled with an "A" with a circular arrow or an icon showing a car with an engine symbol. This button is most commonly found on the dashboard to the left of the steering wheel, on the steering wheel itself, or on the center console near the gear shift.
Press the button once, and you should see a light or message on your instrument cluster confirming that auto start-stop is now off. The icon will typically show as illuminated or highlighted. On your next drive, if you do not press the button again, the feature will turn back on automatically when you restart the engine.
If you cannot find a dedicated button, check your steering wheel spokes and the area around your climate controls. Some manufacturers hide the button in less obvious locations, so your owner's manual will show you the exact spot for your make and model.
Disabling Auto Start-Stop Through the Infotainment Menu
If your vehicle does not have a physical button, you can turn off auto start-stop through the touchscreen or menu system. Start by pressing the "Menu" or "Settings" button on your infotainment system — this is usually a button with three horizontal lines or a gear icon.
Navigate to a section labeled "Vehicle Settings," "Driver information," "Powertrain," or "Engine Settings." The exact name varies by manufacturer. Look for an option that says "Auto Start-Stop," "Engine Auto Stop," "Idle Stop," or "Stop-Start System." Select it and choose "Off" or "Disable."
Some systems require you to confirm the change. Once you do, the feature will be off for this driving session. When you turn off the vehicle and restart it later, auto start-stop will be active again unless you repeat these steps.
Turning Off Auto Start-Stop Permanently
If you want auto start-stop to stay off every time you drive, you need to change the default setting in your vehicle's system menu. This process varies significantly by manufacturer, so your owner's manual is the most reliable source for the exact steps.
Generally, you will access the main settings menu (often labeled "Vehicle Settings" or "Preferences"), find the auto start-stop option, and look for a choice that says "Remember Last Setting" or "Default Off." Some vehicles allow you to set this through the instrument cluster buttons on the steering wheel — usually by pressing up or down arrows to navigate and a center button to select.
If you cannot find this option in the menu, contact your vehicle's dealership or check the manufacturer's website for your specific year and model. Some vehicles do not offer a permanent disable option and will reset to the factory default each time you restart the engine.
What Happens When Auto Start-Stop Is Off
When you disable auto start-stop, your engine will continue running at every stop instead of shutting off. This means your fuel consumption may increase slightly during city driving with frequent stops, but you will not experience the engine restart sensation or hear the starter motor engage.
Turning off auto start-stop does not affect any other vehicle systems or safety features. Your brakes, steering, airbags, and all other functions work exactly as they normally would. The only change is that your engine stays on when you are stopped.
If Your Vehicle Does Not Have an Auto Start-Stop Button
Older vehicles and some base-model trims do not come equipped with auto start-stop, so there is nothing to disable. If you purchased your vehicle before 2010 or it is a basic model, this feature was likely not included from the factory.
If you are certain your vehicle should have the feature but cannot find a button or menu option, check your owner's manual for the exact location and name used by your manufacturer. You can also contact your dealership with your vehicle identification number (VIN), and they can confirm whether auto start-stop was included in your specific vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will turning off auto start-stop damage my engine or void my warranty?
No. Disabling auto start-stop is a normal driver preference and will not damage your engine or void your warranty. The feature is designed to be turned on and off, and manufacturers expect some drivers to disable it.
Does auto start-stop actually save fuel?
In city driving with frequent stops, auto start-stop can reduce fuel consumption by 3 to 10 percent, depending on driving conditions and your vehicle. On highways or roads with fewer stops, the savings are minimal or nonexistent.
Why does my auto start-stop turn back on after I turn off the engine?
Most vehicles reset auto start-stop to the "on" position each time you restart the engine. This is the factory default. To keep it off permanently, you need to change the default setting in your vehicle's menu, which your owner's manual will explain.
Can I disable auto start-stop while driving?
Yes. You can press the auto start-stop button or access the menu setting while the vehicle is in motion. It is safe to do so, and the change takes effect when ready.