You may notice your car’s engine turns off and on when you stop at a red light. This is called auto start stop. It can be helpful for saving fuel, but many people don’t like it. The good news is — you can turn it off for good. In this article, you will learn the easiest ways to permanently disable auto start stop in your car. You don’t need to be a car expert. Just follow each part, and you’ll understand everything clearly and simply.
Know What Auto Start Stop is and Why It Happens
Auto start stop is a system found in many new cars. It works like this: when you stop the car, the engine shuts off. When you lift your foot from the brake, the engine starts again. This is meant to help you save gas and reduce pollution.
For example, you’re sitting at a red light. Your car turns off the engine to save fuel. Then, as soon as the light turns green, and you lift your foot from the brake, the engine starts again.
But here’s the problem — not everyone likes it. Some people find it annoying. The engine turning off and on often feels strange. It may feel like the car is not working right. In cold weather or very hot days, this system may make the car feel slower or affect the air conditioning.
You may also worry about engine wear. The engine starting and stopping too much might seem like it can damage the car. Most car companies say it’s safe. But still, many drivers prefer full control of their engine.
Most cars only let you turn off this system for one trip. Once you start the car again, it turns back on. That’s why many people want to know how to turn it off permanently — one time and never worry again.
- Auto start stop turns off the engine when you stop.
- It helps save fuel and reduce pollution.
- Many drivers do not like how it works.
- You can only turn it off for one trip unless you change something.
- It may feel strange or slow in hot or cold weather.
- That’s why many people want to turn it off for good.
Check Your Car’s Settings or Manual First
The best first step is to look inside your car for a setting or button. Some cars have a simple button that turns off auto start stop. This button may have an ‘A’ with a circle around it. If you press it, the system turns off — but only until you turn off the car. Then it turns on again next time.
But a few cars let you turn it off permanently through the settings. To check this, open your car’s manual — the little book in your glove box. Look for words like ‘auto start stop’, ‘engine stop-start’, or ‘start-stop system’. The manual tells you if your car can turn it off for good.
Also, if your car has a screen, go into the menus. Sometimes there is a section called ‘Vehicle Settings’ or ‘Driving Settings’. Look through all the options slowly. Some cars hide this setting deep in the menus.
You may also hold down the auto start stop button for a few seconds. Some cars remember the setting when you do this.
If none of this works, that’s okay. There are other ways to turn it off.
- Check the car manual for settings.
- Look for a button with an ‘A’ in a circle.
- Check your screen menus for driving settings.
- Try holding the button for a few seconds.
- Some cars allow permanent turn-off, others don’t.
- If you can’t find the option, don’t worry — more ways are coming.
Use a Simple Tool to Turn It Off Through the Car’s Computer
If your car doesn’t have a setting, you can use a small tool to turn off auto start stop. This tool is called an OBD2 scanner. It connects to your car’s computer. You plug it into a small port under your steering wheel — every modern car has this port.
The scanner talks to the car’s brain (called ECU). Some scanners allow you to change settings, including turning off auto start stop for good. This is more permanent than pressing a button every time.
You don’t need to be a car expert. Some OBD2 tools are very simple and work with an app on your phone. You can read the instructions and follow step by step. Just make sure the tool works for your car model.
If you’re not sure how to do this, you can ask a car friend or a mechanic to help. Most garages can do this for you in just a few minutes.
- Buy or borrow an OBD2 scanner.
- Plug it into your car’s port under the steering wheel.
- Use it to change the car’s settings.
- Some tools use phone apps.
- You can do it yourself or ask a mechanic.
- It’s a safe and simple way to turn the system off for good.
Use a Bypass Device to Trick the System
Another easy way is to install a small device called a bypass module. This little tool tricks the car so it doesn’t turn the engine off when you stop. It sends signals that tell the car “don’t use auto start stop.”
These devices are made for specific cars. So when you buy one, make sure it matches your car model and year.
You can often install it yourself. The device usually connects behind the auto start stop button or under the dashboard. It comes with clear instructions. Some people finish the job in 10–20 minutes using just a screwdriver.
Once installed, your car will stop turning off the engine every time you stop. And if you ever want the system back, you can remove the device easily.
This is a good choice if you want a fix that’s fast, easy, and doesn’t change the car’s software.
- Buy a bypass device made for your car.
- It tricks the car into turning off auto start stop.
- You can install it yourself with simple tools.
- It’s fast, easy, and safe.
- You can remove it later if needed.
- Make sure to buy the right one for your car.
Change Battery or Sensor Signals to Keep the Engine On
Auto start stop uses sensors in the car to know when to turn off the engine. It checks battery level, engine heat, and even your seatbelt. If one of these sensors gives the wrong signal, the system won’t work.
Some people stop the system by changing how the sensors work. For example, they replace the battery with a different one, or unplug a sensor. This tricks the car into thinking, “The battery is low — don’t use start stop.”
This method does work, but it’s not simple. If you do it wrong, you can get warning lights on the dashboard. It can also cause other car systems to act strange.
You should only try this if you are very good with car parts or have help from someone who is. A better idea might be to ask a trusted mechanic to help.
- Auto start stop uses battery and sensor signals.
- Changing the battery or unplugging sensors can stop it.
- It tricks the car so the system won’t work.
- Not easy for beginners.
- Can cause warning lights or other problems.
- Ask a mechanic if you want to try this method.
Ask a Mechanic or Dealership to Turn It Off
The easiest and safest way is to go to a mechanic or your car’s dealership. They have the tools and training to turn off the system the right way. Some shops can change the software so the car doesn’t use auto start stop anymore.
Tell the mechanic what you want. Say, “I’d like to turn off auto start stop permanently.” They’ll let you know if it’s possible and how much it costs.
This way, you don’t have to worry about tools, wires, or making mistakes. You get a clean, professional fix.
The only downside is cost. Some shops charge a lot, others don’t. But it’s worth asking around. Many drivers feel it’s money well spent.
- Visit a mechanic or dealership.
- They can turn off the system using tools and software.
- You don’t have to do anything yourself.
- Safer and cleaner fix.
- Can cost more, but worth it.
- Always ask about price and if it’s reversible.
Quick Guide
| Method | Easy to Do | Permanent | Risk Level | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car Settings/Button | Very Easy | Sometimes | Very Low | Free | Everyone |
| OBD2 Scanner | Medium | Yes | Low | Low to Medium | DIY users |
| Bypass Device | Medium | Yes | Low if done right | Low to Medium | DIY beginners |
| Change Battery/Sensor | Hard | Yes | Medium to High | Medium | Experts only |
| Mechanic or Dealership | Very Easy | Yes | Very Low | Medium to High | Anyone wanting help |
Final Thoughts
Turning off auto start stop forever can make driving more smooth and less annoying. There are many ways to do it — some are easy and some need more skill. The best way depends on your car and what you’re comfortable with. Always be careful when making changes. If you’re not sure, ask a mechanic. Once the system is off, you’ll enjoy driving without the engine stopping all the time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe to turn off auto start stop for good?
Yes, it is safe if you do it the right way. The system is made to save fuel, but your car will still work fine without it. Many people turn it off and drive without any problems. Just don’t try risky methods without help.
Can I turn off auto start stop without any tools?
Some cars let you turn it off using a button or screen. But not all cars keep the setting saved. You may have to press the button every time unless you use a tool or device.
Do I lose gas savings if I turn off auto start stop?
Yes, a little. The system helps save fuel when the engine is off at red lights. If you turn it off, the engine keeps running, and you may use a bit more gas. But many drivers say it’s worth it for comfort.
Is it costly to get a mechanic to turn off the system?
It depends on the car and the shop. Some charge a small fee, others more. Always ask before the work starts. Some cars take more time or special tools, which can cost more.
Can turning off auto start stop break my car?
Not if you do it safely. Using settings, scanners, or bypass devices the right way is safe. But if you change sensors or wires without knowing what you’re doing, it can cause problems.
Do I need to reset anything after disabling it?
Sometimes you may need to clear warning lights using a scanner. But if you use a bypass device or change settings, you may not need to reset anything. A mechanic can help if needed.
Is it possible to turn auto start stop back on?
Yes. If you used a scanner or settings, you can change it back. If you used a device, just remove it. Always keep the old parts in case you want to go back later.
Can auto start stop hurt the engine?
Most car makers say it’s safe. The system is designed to protect the engine. But some drivers feel it adds extra stress. That’s why some people choose to turn it off, especially if they drive in traffic often.