Scientific studies are showing that the auto start/stop feature doesn’t reduce fuel consumption compared to the wear and tear it causes.
Engineers introduced this feature to make vehicles shut off 50% of the time during CAFE tests for fuel economy. I explored this in a paper during my time at Koch Industries.
Do you know of any devices that can permanently disable the auto start/stop feature?
- I recall hearing about a hood latch workaround, which seems like the least intrusive option.
- I’ve also come across a small device with dip switches and eight wires that can be installed.
Do you currently use any of these? If so, please share your experience with me.
Most manufacturers allow you to temporarily turn off the auto start-stop feature, but none offer a permanently disable option. You’ll need to manually turn it off each time you start your vehicle.
You set up a profile for yourself, then go to the vehicle settings menu to turn off the auto-stop/start feature.
You should be good as long as you click that profile when you get in the car. I doubt the 2020 has a different infotainment system than my car, but it’s probably the same software.
While there are devices to disable auto start/stop, they can be complex to install. The hood latch workaround is less invasive but might not be reliable. Exploring these options carefully before deciding is recommended.
While scientific studies reveal the feature’s limited benefits compared to its wear and tear, I’ve explored solutions like the hood latch workaround and specialized devices with dip switches. The hood latch method is less intrusive but can be inconsistent, while the device with dip switches and wires offers a more permanent solution. I’ve found that the dip switch device can effectively disable the feature, though installation requires some technical knowledge. If you’re comfortable with hands-on work, this device might be the most reliable option for a permanent fix.