START / STOP DELETE
What is Start/Stop
At Rica Engineering, we’re increasingly being asked by customers whether the start-stop system in their car can be disabled. That’s not surprising: the system is designed to save fuel and reduce emissions, but in real-world conditions, it often brings more drawbacks than benefits.
What does a start-stop system do?
The start-stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the car comes to a stop — for example, at a traffic light — and restarts it as soon as you press the clutch or touch the accelerator pedal.
On paper, it sounds efficient, but in our daily work we see that this system can have negative effects on reliability, comfort, and maintenance costs.
Price: from €175,-*
* ex. VAT.
Disabling Start/Stop System
The disadvantages of a start-stop system
—Technical wear
We often see that vehicles equipped with a start-stop system show increased wear on the starter motor, battery, and alternator. These components are used much more intensively, which can lead to higher maintenance costs or even failures over time.
—Limited fuel savings
The promised fuel savings are often minimal — typically between 2% and 8%. In everyday driving, especially on longer trips or highway use, this benefit is barely noticeable.
—Reduced comfort
Many drivers find it uncomfortable when the engine constantly switches on and off in city traffic. The air conditioning or heating also becomes less effective when the engine is off, which can be particularly noticeable in extreme temperatures.
—Not ideal for short trips
During short journeys or when the engine is cold, the start-stop system often doesn’t operate as intended. The engine needs to reach operating temperature before the system activates — meaning that in many cases, it fails to deliver real benefits.
Start-Stop Delete
We can disable the start-stop system via software. This means the system is completely deactivated — not just temporarily through the button on the dashboard, but permanently.
Benefits of start-stop deactivation:
- No unnecessary wear on the starter motor and battery
- Improved comfort, especially in city traffic
- Constant performance from air conditioning and heating
- No delay when pulling away
- Fully software-based and completely reversible
We modify the engine software while keeping all original factory settings intact. This ensures your car remains safe, reliable, and compliant, but with the extra driving comfort many customers are looking for.
Book an Appointment
Would you like to have the start-stop system in your car permanently disabled?
Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment at one of our locations.