How to Disable Infiniti Auto Start Stop: Complete Guide for Frustrated Drivers

Ever found yourself at a stoplight when your Infiniti’s engine suddenly shuts off? That’s the auto start-stop system (officially called Idle Stop System or ISS) doing its thing. While designed to save fuel, many drivers find it jarring and annoying. The good news? You’ve got options to disable it—whether temporarily or permanently.

Why Infiniti’s Auto Start-Stop Frustrates Many Drivers

Infiniti’s auto start-stop system automatically shuts off your engine when you come to a complete stop, then restarts it when you release the brake pedal. While the fuel-saving intentions are good, many drivers find several frustrating downsides:

• The jarring engine restart sensation
• Delay in acceleration when the light turns green
• Air conditioning performance reduction during stops
• Increased wear on starter components
• The need to manually disable it every single time you drive

The most annoying part? Infiniti designed their system to reset to “On” with every new ignition cycle—meaning you’ll need to press that disable button every time you start your car.

Using Infiniti’s Built-In Override Button

The simplest (though temporary) solution is using Infiniti’s factory-provided override button:

1. Look for the “ISS Off” button on your center console
2. Press it once after starting your car
3. Confirm the orange “ISS Off” light illuminates next to your trunk release button

This manual override works perfectly for that drive cycle, but you’ll need to repeat this every time you start your vehicle. For drivers who consistently want the system disabled, this daily ritual quickly becomes tedious.

Permanent Solutions Without Voiding Your Warranty

If you’re tired of pressing that button every time, here are permanent solutions that won’t void your warranty or trigger check engine lights:

1. Install a Memory Module

A memory module is a simple plug-and-play device that remembers your ISS preference:

• Installs inline between your ISS switch connector and dash harness
• Takes 5-15 minutes to install with basic tools
• Preserves your warranty (easily removable for service)
• Operates using the factory switch (no visible modifications)

These memory modules typically offer three operating modes:

• Always off (engine never auto-stops)
• Always on (system functions normally)
• Manual toggle (saves your last preference)

2. Dedicated Start-Stop Eliminator Devices

Several manufacturers offer model-specific eliminators designed exclusively for Infiniti vehicles:

These devices offer plug-and-play installation that:

• Requires no cutting or splicing of wires
• Maintains all factory functions
• Can be removed for service with no trace
• Doesn’t affect vehicle diagnostics

Installation typically takes 10-20 minutes and involves accessing a panel near your center console or shifter area. The installation videos provided by manufacturers make the process straightforward even for non-mechanical owners.

3. The Battery Sensor Hack

If you’re comfortable with a simple DIY approach, some Infiniti owners have discovered a clever electrical bypass:

1. Locate the secondary wire connector at your negative battery terminal (it has a blue safety lock)
2. Simply disconnect this connector

This tricks your Infiniti into thinking the battery charge is too low for auto start-stop operation. The system will remain disabled until you reconnect it.

Drawback: This method may trigger a “battery sensor” warning on your dashboard, and could potentially affect battery monitoring functions.

Model-Specific Considerations

Different Infiniti models have slightly different ISS implementations:

Q50/Q60 Series

The Q50 and Q60 models (2016+) use a dashboard button located near the steering column. Q50 owners report that start-stop eliminators install easily behind the lower dash panel.

For Q50 Hybrid owners, the system operates slightly differently, but the same elimination methods work. The hybrid forums confirm compatibility with most plug-and-play solutions.

QX60 Crossover

The 2022+ QX60 models feature a redesigned interior with the ISS button near the shifter. QX60 owners have multiple options, including dedicated eliminators that install behind the cup holder assembly.

Several YouTube tutorials demonstrate installation taking less than 15 minutes, with access gained by removing the center console trim panel.

QX50 Compact SUV

The QX50’s more compact interior means slightly different installation locations. The owner’s manual shows the ISS button location, and eliminator devices typically connect near the transmission tunnel.

Will Disabling Auto Start-Stop Affect My Warranty?

This is a common concern among Infiniti owners. The good news is that the plug-and-play solutions described above:

1. Don’t modify your ECU or reprogram any modules
2. Don’t require cutting factory wires
3. Can be completely removed before service visits
4. Don’t trigger any diagnostic trouble codes

According to forum discussions, these modifications fall into a gray area similar to aftermarket floor mats or phone mounts. They interface with your vehicle but don’t fundamentally alter its systems.

The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act also protects consumers by requiring manufacturers to prove that an aftermarket part caused a failure before denying warranty coverage. Since these devices simply mimic the press of a factory button, they’re extremely unlikely to cause any warranty issues.

Will My Fuel Economy Suffer?

Yes, but likely not as much as you might think. Auto start-stop systems typically provide a 3-5% fuel economy improvement in city driving. Reddit discussions suggest most owners see a minimal impact:

• Highway driving: No noticeable difference (system rarely activates)
• City driving: Slight decrease (0.5-1 mpg typical)
• Stop-and-go traffic: Largest impact (can reduce economy by 2-3 mpg)

Most owners report the comfort and convenience of disabling the system outweighs the small fuel economy penalty.

Professional ECU Programming Options

While not commonly documented for Infiniti vehicles specifically, some owners have explored professional ECU programming:

• Requires a dealer-level scan tool or professional tuner
• Permanently disables the system at the software level
• May have warranty implications
• Typically costs $100-300 depending on the shop

This approach is less common for Infinitis compared to European vehicles, where dealerships sometimes offer this as a paid option. Most Infiniti owners prefer the simpler plug-and-play solutions that preserve warranty coverage.

DIY Installation Steps for a Start-Stop Eliminator

If you’ve decided on a plug-and-play solution, here’s a general installation process that works for most Infiniti models:

1. Purchase a device specifically designed for your Infiniti model and year
2. Locate your vehicle’s ISS switch (typically near center console)
3. Remove the trim panel surrounding the switch (usually snap-fit)
4. Disconnect the factory harness from the ISS switch
5. Connect the eliminator between the factory harness and switch
6. Tuck away excess wiring and reinstall trim panels
7. Start your vehicle and confirm the ISS system remains disabled

Many owners complete the entire installation in under 15 minutes with basic trim removal tools.

Beyond Infiniti: Related Nissan Models

Since Infiniti is Nissan’s luxury division, the auto start-stop systems are shared across platforms. If you’re coming from a Nissan with the same annoyance, the good news is that similar solutions work:

• Nissan Rogue: Uses similar systems to Infiniti QX50
• Nissan Frontier: Auto start-stop delete modules work identically
• Nissan Pathfinder: Shares components with Infiniti QX60

The aftermarket solutions for these vehicles are virtually identical to their Infiniti counterparts, often sold by the same manufacturers.

Making the Right Choice for Your Infiniti

Deciding how to disable your Infiniti’s auto start-stop system comes down to your preferences:

• For occasional disabling: Use the factory button each time
• For convenience without modification: Choose a plug-and-play memory module
• For model-specific solution: Select a dedicated eliminator for your exact model
• For quick DIY hack: Try the battery sensor disconnect method

Most owners find that a quality plug-and-play eliminator offers the best balance of convenience, reversibility, and preservation of warranty. The 10-15 minute installation pays for itself in daily driving satisfaction.

By using any of these methods, you’ll enjoy a smoother driving experience without the constant engine shutdowns and restarts that many find so irritating—all while keeping your beautiful Infiniti just as the factory intended otherwise.