Turn the Auto Idle Stop System On or Off

The Honda Civic Mk9 (FK, 2012–2017) — on diesel and other idle-stop-equipped models — uses Auto Idle Stop to switch the engine off when you come to a halt and restart it as you pull away, saving fuel. If you would rather keep the engine running — in slow traffic, when manoeuvring, or before working under the bonnet — you can switch it off with one button.

Where the Button Is

The Auto Idle Stop OFF button — marked with an encircled A above OFF — is on the lower row of the climate control panel, between the heated-seat switches.

How to Turn Idle Stop Off

1. With the engine running, press the A OFF button on the climate panel.
2. The A OFF indicator lights to show the system is disabled.
3. The engine now stays running at a standstill until you switch it back on.

How to Turn It Back On

Press the A OFF button again, or simply restart the car — Auto Idle Stop returns to its default ON state every time you switch the ignition off and on, so it is never left disabled permanently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Idle Stop stay off after I restart the car?

No. It defaults back on each time you start the car, so press A OFF again if you want it off for that journey.

Why doesn’t my engine stop at the lights even with the system on?

Auto Idle Stop only stops the engine once conditions are met — engine warmed up, battery well charged, climate demand low, the car fully stopped and, on the manual, the clutch released in neutral. In cold weather or with a tired 12 V battery it may not trigger until things warm up and the battery recovers.

Is it bad to switch Idle Stop off?

No. The button simply keeps the engine running and affects nothing else. Many owners turn it off in stop-go traffic and leave it on for open-road driving.

If an Idle Stop or charging warning appears, look the code up on autodtcs.com.