Auto Start-Stop Indicator

Dashboard Warning Lights Info (green/blue)

Can you still drive? Yes, normally

Who can fix it? Needs a workshop

Typical repair time 15 minutes – 2 hours

Typical cost SAR 100 to 1,500

What it means

Shown as a circular arrow with the letter A inside, green when the system has stopped the engine at a standstill to save fuel; it restarts when you lift off the brake or press the clutch. Amber, or crossed out, means the system is switched off, unavailable or faulty, and colors vary by make. It is an information light, and the engine stopping at traffic lights is normal.

Symptoms4

Engine stops at a standstill and restarts when moving off, with the green indicator on.
The system never stops the engine even though it is enabled.
Indicator amber or flashing with a fault message.
Hesitant or slow restart after stopping.

Possible causes6

System working normally and stopping the engine at a standstill.
Operating conditions not met: engine cold, air conditioning working hard in hot weather, or battery not fully charged.
Weak start-stop battery, or a battery of the wrong type fitted.
Driver seat belt unfastened, or a door or the hood open.
Faulty battery sensor, brake pedal switch or clutch switch.
Failed heavy-duty starter (less common).

How to diagnose4

Check the owner manual for the operating conditions; not stopping in extreme heat or with a cold engine is normal.
Make sure the belt is fastened and the doors and hood are closed.
Check the battery age and type against the manufacturer specification.
At the workshop: test the battery, and read system codes and battery sensor status with a scan tool.

How to fix5

Switch the system off with its button if you prefer; this does not harm the car.
Fully charge the battery or replace it with the type the specification calls for.
Register the new battery with the car computer if the manufacturer requires it.
Repair the battery sensor, brake switch or clutch switch if confirmed faulty.
Replace the starter if confirmed weak, then confirm the system works again.

Repair cost

0–500

500–2,000

2,000–5,000

5,000+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The repair starts with testing and charging the battery, and reaches the upper end for a start-stop battery with registration or a new starter.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

Does stopping at every light wear out the starter?

Cars with this system use a starter and battery designed for frequent restarts, so this is normal use for them.

Why does the system not work in summer?

Usually because the air conditioning needs the engine running to keep cooling, or the battery is not fully charged, so the system does not stop the engine.

Can I fit a standard battery?

It is not recommended. These systems usually need a special battery type that tolerates repeated charging and discharging; the wrong battery wears out fast or disables the system.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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