There are all kinds of new technologies being introduced in the automotive industry each and every year, so many in fact that you might miss some of them. But if you’ve driven or ridden in a newer Dodge or Jeep vehicle, you undoubtedly noticed the Auto Start/Stop feature. This is a technological advancement that actually dates back decades, but didn’t become mainstream until the late ‘00s.
Now it’s fairly common, whether it’s a feature you like or not. But if you’re in the latter camp, we have some good news, you can turn the feature off! That’s what we’re here to discuss today, as we’re going to walk you through the process of how to turn off Auto Start/Stop in your Dodge or Jeep vehicle in the event you don’t like it.
What is Auto Start/Stop and why does it exist?
But before we detail how to turn this feature off, we thought we should start by explaining what it is and why it has become so widespread throughout the industry. It might not change your mind, and that’s perfectly fine, but there are some benefits to this technology that we want to make sure you’re aware of before you decide to do away with it.
The Auto Start/Stop system was initially developed for hybrid vehicles, but it was determined that it would be a great way to enhance fuel savings so it was adapted for traditional gas-powered vehicles as well. Essentially, the system was designed to automatically shut off the engine of a vehicle any time it comes to a complete stop, such as when you come to a red light or if you get stuck in heavy traffic. Then when you release the brake pedal, the system seamlessly restarts your engine.
We completely understand how this can be annoying to some drivers, but if you’re frequently stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic or live in an urban environment where you’re constantly coming up to long stop lights or four-way stop signs, it can be a huge boon. It was introduced to help vehicles meet stricter fuel economy and emissions standards, as by reducing the amount of time your car is idling it reduces the amount of fuel your vehicle consumes and helps contribute to cleaner air.
So, if you simply can’t deal with the constant starting and stopping of the system, you can definitely keep reading to learn how to turn it off. But, if you like the idea of saving money at the pump in the long run, consider leaving it on instead!
Turning Off Auto Start/Stop Step-by-Step Process
Dodge and Jeep vehicles operate incredibly similarly, so while there might be some small differences you should be able to follow the same general process regardless of which make or model you own:
- Locate the Button
- Most modern models from these manufacturers have a dedicated button for the Auto Start/Stop system, which is typically adorned with the symbol of a circular arrow encompassing the letter “A.”
- Press the Button
- All you have to do is press the button to disable the system, then a dashboard indicator should light up somewhere to confirm that the system has been turned off.
- Repeat Each Trip
- Unfortunately, this is a setting that you’ll need to change each time you get behind the wheel, as disabling it is temporary. Once you power off the vehicle and turn it back on, the system will be reactivated and you’ll have to deactivate it once again.
If a temporary solution just isn’t good enough for you, there are aftermarket parts out there that can completely disable the system. Feel free to get in touch with us right here at Jim Glover CDJRF with any questions about this process, or to inquire about one of these more permanent solutions. We’d be happy to help however we can!