When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
List of known solutions to disable Auto Start/Stop
There have been many discussions on how to disable the Auto Start/Stop (A.S.S) on the F150 trucks. This post is not about whether or not someone likes or dislikes A.S.S., rather it is to document, in once place, the known options to disable A.S.S. for those who do not like this feature. This list is provided so those who wish to bypass or eliminate this feature may choose the method which works best for their own purposes. While the author may not have direct experience with every solution listed, nor is any method recommended over another, it is ultimately up to the vehicle owner to fully understand any solution selected/implemented and understand risks/benefits of the modification. The vehicle owner is responsible for all modifications on their vehicle regardless of the source of the information listed here.
If you know of another method to disable A.S.S. in the F150 truck and would like to have it added here, contact breakers28 via PM with the information and it can be added to this list. The information listed here is deemed to be accurate, however if there is anything listed which is inaccurate, let me know and I will update the list accordingly. In my opinion, it would be good if a list such as this existing in one place, where it could be a living document with the latest and most accurate information. If someone would like to post this to Google Docs or some other single place, feel free to copy/paste/post the information and provide a link in this thread so others can find it.
The following table gives a basic comparison of the A.S.S. solutions listed. Below the table is a bit more information for each solution listed in the table. Date of last update: 11/14/18
Comparison Table
Due to space limitations within a single post, I've included all the information in this post and the next post (422) in the attached PDF file. Post 422 (the next post) is superseded by the attached PDF file.
Last edited by breakers28; 11-14-2018 at 06:45 PM.
Reason: Updated options in table, PDF attachment
List of known solutions to disable Auto Start/Stop - cont.
This is a continuation from the previous post with title: List of known solutions to disable Auto Start/Stop
***NOTE This post is at the size limit and cannot be further updated. Therefore, the details listed in this post, as well as any updates, are included in the PDF in the previous post. Download the PDF listed in the previous post for updated details of each solution.***
Short across Pin 2 & 3 on back of A.S.S switch – this solution uses a piece of wire or paper clip on the backside of the A.S.S./Hazard switch to jump across pins 2 and 3. This was the original solution found to disable A.S.S.
NOTE: I do not believe this works on 2018+ vehicles – this needs to be verified by someone.
Pros:·
Inexpensive solution · Relatively easy to remove
Cons:·
A.S.S. icon in instrument cluster is illuminated·
OFF light remains on in the A.S.S./Hazard switch·
Wire or paper clip can fall out or lose contact in the back of the switch
FORScan – this is a software solution which can change options within the various modules on the vehicle. There is an entire thread dedicated to this software. This solution will disable the BMS (Battery Monitoring System) within the BCM (Body Control Module), which in essence prevents A.S.S from engaging.
Pros:·
No hardware or wiring to alter, all changes are software changes to existing modules·
Can be reversed (set back to stock)·
This may be the most common solution used.
Cons: ·
Disables BMS. While there is considerable discussion in the F150 Forum regarding this solution and its real or potential impact on the charging system and battery, this is probably the most popular solution used. I’ve not seen a documented issue from this solution. There are 3 (three) FORScan changes which can be done. One disables the BMS function (which in essence prevents A.S.S. from engaging), one removes the A.S.S. icon from the instrument cluster and the third change disables the A.S.S button from functioning. ·
A.S.S. is disabled until reverted to stock with FORScan
Aftermarket Automotive Solutions – this simulates a user pressing the A.S.S. button on the dash every time the vehicle is started. It is a plug and play solution which plugs into the existing wire harness and switch. This is a hardware solution will disable A.S.S. upon each startup, and it will also eliminate the illumination of the OFF light within the A.S.S. switch. Refer to the Aftermarket Automotive Solutions web page for more information. www.aaselectronics.com
Pros:·
Complete plug and play solution which plugs into existing wire harness and switch. ·
No software needed, and no alteration to existing wires.
No wires to run (power, ground, etc.)
Cons:·
A.S.S is disabled until reverted to stock (remove the device).
TR-7 and Relay – This is a hardware solution which simulates a user pressing the A.S.S. button on the dash. The TR-7 will wait for 5 seconds after the key is switched on, then it will activate and simulate the user pressing the A.S.S. switch. This solution is more complex to install (requires power, ground and either building a wire harness or tapping into 2 wires). However, this solution leaves Auto Start/Stop functional at all times as this is an automated method of pressing the A.S.S. button after startup. If the user desires to utilize A.S.S., simply press the A.S.S. button on the dash.
Anyone interested in this solution can send a private message to breakers28 as there are several steps involved (1. Program TR-7 switch – 5 minutes, 2. Tap into 12V switched power and a ground, 3. Install the TR-7 and relay, 4. Either tap into 2 wires on the back of the A.S.S. switch OR build a small plug and play wire harness).
NOTE: This concept is probably very similar to 02fx4dude (post 384 and 392 in the Disable auto start/stop for good thread). However, I’ve not seen details on how 02fx4dude implemented his solution (may be easier than the TR-7 and relay method listed here) While 02fx4dude recommends cutting the factory harness, one could build a short plug and play harness as opposed to cutting OEM wire harnesses and still use the relay solution from 02fx4dude. Unfortunately, I have not seen a diagram from 02fx4dude yet so if anyone can find it, the diagram and solution can be added to this post.
Pros:·
A.S.S. remains usable
Cons:·
Probably the most involved installation of all choices.·
Requires a 12V switched power and ground wire·
Must either tap into 2 wires (back of the A.S.S. switch) OR build a short Plug and Play harness
Ford Memorizer by NAV-TV - this is a prepackaged hardware solution. Depending on the year of the truck, it may require tapping into 1-5 wires, or it may be totally plug and play. More details can be found on their web site: https://navtv.com/products/NTV-KIT87...memorizer.html The Ford-Memorizer is a data-retention module that will remember the last state of the Ford factory Drive-Mode setting and Auto Start/Stop feature after cycling the ignition. This kit connects at the ODB (gateway module).
Pros:·
A.S.S remains usable·
Last state of A.S.S. is remembered after each key cycle·
Also includes drive mode memory (normal, tow haul, sport)
Cons:·
Most expensive solution
Remove wire from Trailer Control Module (TCM) – Is this the correct name?? This solution requires the user to unplug a module under the steering wheel. By disabling the module, A.S.S. is effectively disabled. I’m not sure how or why this works, but those who have unplugged this module have effectively eliminated A.S.S. from triggering. Of course, one would have to plug this module back in should they ever decide to tow (hook up a trailer). (unplug a 2 wire black plug just to the left of the brake pedal, it is by 2 larger gray plugs)
Pros:·
Inexpensive and easy to do
Cons:·
One MUST remember to plug this in anytime they plan to tow or hook up a trailer.
Use a Trailer Wire Test in the Trailer Connector – this utilizes a trailer wire connector tester or another device which is plugged into the Trailer Connector. One way to accomplish this is to put a 7 to 4 pin adapter into tow hitch, or any other 7 or 4 pin light or accessory into the trailer 4 pin or 7 pin connector. This in essence makes the truck realize a trailer is connected, which prevents A.S.S. from engaging. However, this will also default the instrument cluster to the towing screen upon every startup (as if you have a trailer attached and plugged in).
Pros:·
Simple to implement·
Inexpensive
Cons:·
Defaults instrument cluster to Tow Screen upon startup
Sport Mode – Simply press the Tow Haul/Sport mode on every startup and use SPORT mode. A.S.S. does not engage in Sport mode by default. This requires the user to press the Tow Haul/Sport mode 2 times on every startup. Some prefer to drive in Sport mode most or all of the time. For those who prefer to drive in Sport mode all the time, it might make sense to implement the Ford Memorizer solution.
Pros: ·
Simple, easy and inexpensive.
Cons:·
If one presses the Tow Haul/Sport mode 2 times, one could just as easily press the A.S.S switch once.
Replace A.S.S./Hazard switch with Hazard only switch - OPTIONAL
Another option for several solutions listed above is to replace the existing A.S.S/Hazard switch with a Hazard (no A.S.S. button). This would apply to any solution where the A.S.S. is totally disabled as this will remove the A.S.S. switch from the dash. The Hazard only switch is inexpensive, and eliminates a non-functional button from the dash. The switch is less than $15 and gives a very clean look. Again, this is an optional choice and is most appropriate for those solutions where the switch is no longer usable or needed. The Hazard ONLY switch is a direct fit to the existing wire harness so it really is remove the original A.S.S/Hazard switch and replace with the hazard only switch.
Part Number: FL3Z-13350-AA or SW-7413
Can purchase from Ford Dealer, e-BAY, or other sources
Rock Auto part: SW7413
Realize there can be a hybrid of options available. For example, one could install the Aftermarket Automotive Solutions device, then use FORScan to remove the A.S.S. icon from the instrument cluster, and optionally, replace the A.S.S./Hazard switch with just a Hazard switch. So, it is possible to use pieces from multiple solutions listed above and create your own custom solution which fits your needs. Be creative! There really are many options available.
Last edited by breakers28; 10-15-2018 at 01:06 PM.
Reason: refer to previous post and PDF file
Excellent summary, breakers28!
The only questionable thing I saw is that using Sport Mode does not automatically disable A/S/S on all trucks. I don't know if that's model year specific or if there are other factors involved, but it is true (Sport mode does not disable A/S/S) on my '16 2.7 EB.
Re: "Use a Trailer Wire Test in the Trailer Connector"
I didn't personally try this, but read that this method will also disable your backup proximity sensors (which is why I didn't try it and used the pin jumping method instead.)
FORScan – this is a software solution which can change options within the various modules on the vehicle. There is an entire thread dedicated to this software. This solution will disable the BMS (Battery Monitoring System) within the BCM (Body Control Module), which in essence prevents A.S.S from engaging.
Pros:·
No hardware or wiring to alter, all changes are software changes to existing modules·
Can be reversed (set back to stock)·
This may be the most common solution used.
Cons: ·
Disables BMS. While there is considerable discussion in the F150 Forum regarding this solution and its real or potential impact on the charging system and battery, this is probably the most popular solution used. I’ve not seen a documented issue from this solution. There are 3 (three) FORScan changes which can be done. One disables the BMS function (which in essence prevents A.S.S. from engaging), one removes the A.S.S. icon from the instrument cluster and the third change disables the A.S.S button from functioning. ·
A.S.S. is disabled until reverted to stock with FORScan
Use a Trailer Wire Test in the Trailer Connector – this utilizes a trailer wire connector tester or another device which is plugged into the Trailer Connector. One way to accomplish this is to put a 7 to 4 pin adapter into tow hitch, or any other 7 or 4 pin light or accessory into the trailer 4 pin or 7 pin connector. This in essence makes the truck realize a trailer is connected, which prevents A.S.S. from engaging. However, this will also default the instrument cluster to the towing screen upon every startup (as if you have a trailer attached and plugged in).
Pros:·
Simple to implement·
Inexpensive
Cons:·
Defaults instrument cluster to Tow Screen upon startup
Two quibbles.
1. The Forscan mod is ASSUMED to disable the BMS system. That has not been proved, and there are reports that the BMS has engaged to turn off power in trucks that have used the Forscan mod. This indicates that disabling the BMS system may not be what this mod does.
2. A couple of significant cons for the Trailer Wire Tester method. This not only puts the tow screen up and disables A.S.S., it also disables Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Park Aid.
Here is another option, I haven't used this and I don't know exactly what it's doing but it looks simple to do. Cost is $99.99 https://www.4dtech.com/startstop
Here is another option, I haven't used this and I don't know exactly what it's doing but it looks simple to do. Cost is $99.99 https://www.4dtech.com/startstop
I would consider this if there are some positive reviews and can verify it is ok with the 2018+ trucks. My XLT has the backup sensors and Blink, so want to confirm those functions are unaffected. This price is not bad though as I am not ready to get into Forscan yet.
10-14-2018, 12:58 AM
List of known solutions to disable Auto Start/Stop
