How to Disable the Auto Start-Stop Function in the New BMW 5 Series?

From a dealership perspective, BMW intentionally designs the auto start-stop system to reactivate upon each ignition cycle to comply with emissions regulations. While customers often request permanent deactivation, most dealerships won’t disable it officially due to legal and warranty implications. Third-party coding exists, but it risks voiding your warranty. For temporary relief, use the "A Off" button—it’s the only approved method.

In the BMW 5 Series, the auto start-stop function is enabled by default each time the ignition is turned on. To disable it, you must manually press the auto start-stop button (marked with an 'A') before starting the engine. This button is located near the gear lever and is labelled 'OFF'. When pressed, the indicator light will turn off, confirming that the auto start-stop function has been deactivated.

Note that the system will revert to the default 'on' setting after the engine is restarted. If you wish to disable it again, you will need to manually press the button each time before starting the car.

Mid-to-high-end models typically feature both auto start-stop and auto hold functions, eliminating the need to keep your foot on the brake pedal. This not only reduces driver fatigue but also improves fuel efficiency. The BMW 5 Series is a mid-to-large-sized saloon offered in both petrol and plug-in hybrid variants. It is available with either M Sport or Luxury exterior styling packages. The vehicle measures 4998mm in length, 1901mm in width, and 1559mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3070mm.

The auto start-stop function in the new BMW 5 Series can be disabled by pressing the dedicated "A Off" button located near the gear selector or climate controls. However, this only deactivates it temporarily—it resets every time the car is restarted. For a permanent solution, you’d need to code it out via BMW’s iDrive system or using third-party diagnostic tools like BimmerCode.

Here’s how to temporarily disable it:

1. Locate the "A Off" button (typically near the gear lever or dashboard).
2. Press it—the indicator light will illuminate, confirming deactivation.

For permanent disablement:

1. Use BMW’s iDrive: Navigate to "Vehicle Settings" > "Engine Start/Stop" and disable the function (if the option exists—some models restrict this).
2. Alternatively, a specialist can code it out via OBD-II tools, though this may void warranty coverage.

Note that disabling start-stop may marginally increase fuel consumption and emissions. The system is designed to improve efficiency, particularly in urban driving. If you frequently drive in stop-start traffic, consider leaving it active to save fuel.