The auto start-stop feature has quickly become standard on many modern cars, including the Jeep Cherokee. Designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, the system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle stops and restarts it when you release the brake pedal.
While some drivers appreciate this eco-friendly innovation, others find it annoying and intrusive for those who own a Jeep Cherokee and wish to permanently disable the auto start-stop. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to permanently turn off auto start stop jeep cherokee.
Understanding Auto Start-Stop in Jeep Cherokee
The auto start-stop technology is part of Jeep’s strategy to meet stringent fuel efficiency standards. In the latest models, including the Cherokee, the system is more intelligent, using various sensors and smart algorithms to determine when to shut off the engine. However, it’s important to know how this feature interacts with the vehicle’s other systems and how it may affect your driving experience.
Reasons to Disable Auto Start-Stop
Before delving into the ways to disable this feature, it’s essential to understand why many drivers seek to do so.
Inconvenience and Discomfort
Drivers in heavy traffic or urban areas with frequent stop-and-go situations often find the auto start-stop system to be more of a nuisance than a benefit. The slight delay in engine restart and the vehicle’s response time can lead to a jarring experience, especially when trying to make quick maneuvers.
Wear and Tear on the Engine
The frequent starting and stopping of the engine can increase the mechanical strain on critical components. Over time, this may lead to premature wear and potentially costly repairs.
Impact on Fuel Efficiency
Surprisingly to some, disabling the auto start-stop does not significantly reduce fuel efficiency since the system is most effective in city driving. Maintaining a consistent highway speed can yield better fuel economy without the on-and-off engine cycles.
6 Methods to Follow on How to Permanently Turn Off Auto Start Stop Jeep Cherokee
For Jeep Cherokee drivers looking to permanently disable auto start-stop, here are a few methods you can consider.
1. Using a Diagnostic Tool
One of the most thorough methods involves using a diagnostic tool to access the vehicle’s onboard computer. This allows you to reprogram the settings that control the auto start-stop system. While it requires some technical know-how, the process is reversible and less invasive than other options.
2. Modifying the Vehicle’s Settings
A simpler way to disable the feature is by navigating the vehicle’s settings via the infotainment screen. Depending on the year and model of your Cherokee, there may be a menu option to turn the auto start-stop off. If it’s not there, it may require a dealer to perform the change using their software, which could come at a cost.
3. Installing an Aftermarket Device
Aftermarket products are specifically designed to disable the auto start-stop system in your vehicle. These devices are plugged into the car’s wiring and are generally easy to install. However, this method is not endorsed by the manufacturer and could potentially void your warranty. It’s best to research the product thoroughly before making a purchase.
4. Disconnecting the Battery
A more primitive way to disable the system is by disconnecting the battery, which essentially resets all electronic systems in your vehicle. However, this method also comes with potential risks, such as losing settings and causing electrical problems if not done correctly.
5. Using a Custom Engine Tune
For those who are comfortable with modifying their vehicle’s engine tune, there are options to disable the auto start-stop feature through this method. Still, it requires advanced knowledge and could impact your vehicle’s performance.
6. Seeking Professional Help
If you’re not confident in performing any of the above methods yourself, it’s best to seek professional help. A dealership or mechanic familiar with your vehicle can assist in disabling the auto start-stop system for you safely and efficiently.
5 Considerations When Permanently Turning Off Auto Start-Stop in Your Jeep Cherokee
1. Understanding the Auto Start-Stop Feature
Before you take any steps towards deactivating the system, it’s essential to understand what it does and why it’s there in the first place. Auto Start-Stop is designed to decrease fuel consumption and exhaust emissions by reducing the amount of time the engine spends idling.
When your vehicle stops, the system detects this and automatically cuts the engine, only to fire it back up when you’re ready to move. This reduces the amount of fuel your vehicle consumes, especially in city driving situations with frequent stops.
Although the feature might be jarring for some Jeep Cherokee drivers who prefer a more traditional and instant power response, it’s vital to acknowledge the intent behind these environmental and economic benefits. With this understanding, you can evaluate whether the trade-off is worth disabling the system.
2. Evaluating the Benefits of Turning off Auto Start-Stop
Now that you know the ins and outs of Auto Start-Stop, it’s time to weigh the benefits. Despite the engine’s rumble coming to life when you least expect it, the fuel efficiency gains are not to be scoffed at, especially if you do a lot of city driving. Modern engines, electric accessories, and improvements in battery technology have made this feature a viable way to save on fuel and reduce emissions.
On the flip side, the constant stopping and starting can wear on your vehicle’s starter and battery over time. Moreover, the driving experience can be less smooth and more distracting, particularly when dealing with sudden stops and subsequent starts, making the feature less favorable for some drivers.
Consider your driving patterns and the typical environment in which you drive. For example, fuel savings may be significant if you spend most of your time in stop-and-go traffic. However, the benefits might not be as noticeable if your driving is predominantly on the highway.
3. Legal and Warranty Implications
Disabling any system that comes standard with your vehicle, including Auto Start-Stop, can potentially lead to legal and warranty complications. While it’s your vehicle, and you might feel entitled to modify it as you see fit, doing so could void the manufacturer’s warranty, which may not be worth the risk.
Additionally, changes to the emissions system or other factory-installed features could land you in hot water with the authorities depending on local laws and regulations. Laws regarding vehicle modifications vary from state to state and country to country, so it’s crucial to research and understand the legal framework you’re operating within.
Before you make any permanent changes, consult your vehicle’s warranty to see if there are clauses that pertain to modifications and warranty avoidance. This step is essential to avoid any unforeseen consequences should you need repairs covered under warranty.
4. Exploring Alternative Solutions
If the Auto Start-Stop feature is truly irksome and you’re wary of warranty concerns, there might be alternative routes to explore. Some Jeep Cherokee owners have found that aftermarket devices can disable the system without affecting other components or the vehicle’s warranty.
Another approach is the use of electronic tuning, which can be performed by specialized mechanics or using software specifically designed for your vehicle. This non-invasive method allows you to modify the behavior of the Auto Start-Stop system without physically removing components or altering the vehicle’s original state.
However, remember that these modifications should be carefully researched and implemented to ensure they’re safe and legal. Also, they may not be as straightforward as simply flipping a switch and could involve additional costs.
5. Consulting with Professionals
The final and perhaps most crucial consideration is to seek professional advice. Certified technicians and Jeep experts can provide a wealth of knowledge regarding the Auto Start-Stop system and the best approach to disabling it if that’s what you ultimately decide to do.
Professionals can assist in evaluating the implications of turning off the system, provide alternative solutions, and even perform the disabling process for you. Their expertise can help you avoid issues with vehicle performance, legal complications, or voiding your warranty.
Consulting with a professional is always the safest and most informed course of action when in doubt. Remember, you’re not alone in your desire to customize your driving experience, and specialists are ready to guide you through the process.
In the end, the choice to permanently disable Auto Start-Stop in your Jeep Cherokee is a personal one, and each driver’s situation is different. By considering these five points thoughtfully, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and maintains the integrity of your vehicle.
Conclusion
Disabling the auto start-stop in your Jeep Cherokee is a personal choice that depends on your driving habits and preferences. The first step is understanding the feature, why you might want to turn it off, and the methods to do so. Remember, with every change you make to your vehicle, there are potential trade-offs to consider.
Weighing these up against your individual needs will help you make an informed decision about how to customize your driving experience. Thanks for reading our post about how to permanently turn off auto start stop jeep cherokee.