Turn the Start-Stop (ISG) System On or Off

Last updated: June 12, 2026

Your Kia Sportage Mk4 (QL/QLE, 2016–2022) has Kia’s ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system, which switches the engine off when you stop and restarts it as you pull away. It saves fuel, but some drivers prefer to switch it off in stop-go traffic or when manoeuvring. This guide shows how to deactivate it — including the handy seatbelt trick — and why it sometimes won’t engage on its own.

How ISG Works on the Sportage

When you brake to a stop (automatic) or select neutral and release the clutch (manual), ISG shuts the engine down to save fuel. Lifting the brake or pressing the clutch restarts it automatically.

Option 1 — The Dashboard Button

1. With the engine running, find the ISG / Auto Stop OFF button on the dashboard (marked with an “A” inside a circular arrow).
2. Press it once. The ISG warning light illuminates and the display shows a message confirming the system is switched off.
3. The engine will now idle normally at a stop.

Option 2 — Undo the Driver’s Seatbelt

The Sportage also suppresses auto-stop when the driver isn’t belted in or the door is open:

1. Disconnect the driver’s seat belt from the buckle, or
2. Open the driver’s door.
3. With either condition present, the system will not stop the engine.

The button (Option 1) is the proper way to disable it for a drive.

How to Switch It Back On

Press the ISG OFF button again so the warning light goes out, or simply restart the car — ISG defaults back to ON every time you switch the ignition off and on.

Why ISG Sometimes Won’t Activate

Even with the system enabled, the Sportage skips auto-stop to protect comfort and components when:

• The engine is not yet up to temperature (cold start).
• The battery charge is low — common after a battery change or lots of short trips.
• Cabin heating or demisting needs the engine running.
• The steering is turned, or the car is on a steep slope.

If ISG stopped working entirely after a battery disconnection, the battery needs to recharge — see our Sportage battery guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Sportage remember my ISG setting?

No — it resets to ON every time you restart the car. Press the OFF button each drive if you prefer it disabled.

Is it bad to keep using ISG?

No. The Sportage’s reinforced starter and AGM/EFB battery are built for it, and the system skips stops when the battery is low to protect itself.

Why did ISG stop working after a flat battery?

It only runs when the battery is well charged. After a jump-start or battery change it stays dormant until charge recovers; a few longer drives usually restore it.

Can I turn ISG off permanently?

Not from the dashboard — the button is per-drive only. A permanent change would need dealer-level configuration, which most owners skip given the simple button.

If a warning light appeared alongside the fault, look up the code on autodtcs.com. To clear a service reminder, see our Kia Sportage service indicator reset guide.