Disable the Stop/Start System

Last updated: June 9, 2026

The automatic stop/start on your DS 4 (2011–2018) cuts the engine at junctions to save fuel. If you’d rather keep it running — in heavy traffic, or before working on the engine — you can switch it off with a single button.

Turning Stop/Start Off

1. Find the stop/start button — the ‘ECO OFF’ / ‘A’ button, usually on the centre console or dash.
2. Press the button once.
3. The warning light illuminates to confirm the system is off — the engine now idles normally at a stop.

Turning It Back On

Press the button again, or restart the car — stop/start defaults to ON every time you start the engine, so press the button each drive if you want it off.

Why It Sometimes Keeps the Engine Running

Even with stop/start active, the DS 4 holds the engine on when conditions aren’t met, for example:

• The 12 V battery charge is low, or the battery sensor isn’t satisfied.
• The cabin is still heating or cooling to the set temperature.
• The engine is still cold.

If Stop/Start Has Stopped Working

• A weak or ageing battery is the most common cause — the system disables itself to protect it.
• After a battery change, fit the correct type and let it learn over a few drives.
• A stored fault can disable it — look up the code on autodtcs.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I turn off stop/start on a DS 4?

Press the ‘ECO OFF’ / ‘A’ button; the warning light confirms it’s off.

Can I disable it permanently?

Not from the button — it resets to ON at each engine start.

Why does the engine keep running with stop/start on?

The system holds the engine on if the battery is low, the cabin is still heating/cooling, or the engine is cold.

Why won’t stop/start work at all?

Usually a weak battery; the DS 4 disables stop/start to protect it.

If a warning light came on with the fault, decode it on autodtcs.com.