Last Updated on 5 months by Saifuddin Masuk
Auto H is a feature found in BMW cars that automatically puts the vehicle in neutral when you come to a stop. While this feature can be helpful in certain situations, some BMW drivers may prefer to turn it off. In this article, we will discuss how Auto H works, why some drivers choose to turn it off, how to identify if your BMW has Auto H, and how to turn it off. We will also provide tips for driving without Auto H and alternative options.
Understanding Auto H
What is Auto H?
Auto H, or automatic headlights, is a convenient feature that automatically turns on your BMW’s headlights when it detects low light conditions. While this feature enhances safety and visibility, some drivers may prefer to have more control over their headlights.
How Auto H works
Auto H is a feature that automatically shifts the BMW into neutral when the driver stops the vehicle. This helps to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, as the engine is not being used to keep the car in gear when it is stationary.
The benefits of Auto H
Auto H can be helpful in stop-and-go traffic, as it reduces the need for the driver to constantly shift between gears. It also reduces fuel consumption and emissions, which can be better for the environment.
When Auto H is helpful
Auto H is particularly helpful in situations where the driver is frequently starting and stopping the car, such as in heavy traffic or at traffic lights.
How to Turn Off Auto H on BMW:
Step 1: Locate the Light Switch
First, you’ll need to locate the light switch on your BMW’s dashboard. The light switch is typically located near the steering wheel, either on the left or right side.
Step 2: Access the Headlight Settings
Once you’ve located the light switch, turn on your BMW’s ignition without starting the engine. This will power up the vehicle’s electronics. Next, activate the headlights by twisting the light switch to the first position, usually marked with a symbol resembling a headlight.
Step 3: Disable Auto H
With the headlights activated, locate the control dial or button near the light switch. This control is used to adjust various lighting settings on your BMW. Look for an option that allows you to toggle Auto H on or off. The exact location and labeling of this option may vary depending on your BMW model.
Step 4: Turn Off Auto H
Once you’ve found the option to toggle Auto H, simply switch it off. This action will disable the automatic headlights feature, allowing you to manually control your BMW’s headlights.
Step 5: Confirm Settings
After turning off Auto H, check the dashboard or instrument cluster to ensure that the automatic headlights indicator light is no longer illuminated. This confirms that the feature has been successfully disabled.
Step 6: Enjoy Manual Control
With Auto H turned off, you now have full control over your BMW’s headlights. You can manually turn them on or off as needed, depending on your driving preferences and environmental conditions.
Reasons to Turn Off Auto H
Limited control over the vehicle
Some drivers may feel that Auto H takes away their control over the car, as the vehicle is automatically put into neutral when they come to a stop.
Driving preferences
Some BMW drivers may simply prefer to have more control over their vehicle and want to turn off Auto H for that reason.
Concerns with fuel consumption
While Auto H is designed to reduce fuel consumption, some drivers may feel that it is not worth the potential wear and tear on the engine.
Other reasons
Other reasons for turning off Auto H may include personal preferences, driving habits, or specific situations where the feature is not necessary.
Identifying Auto H
How to determine if your BMW has Auto H
Auto H is a feature that is found in many BMW models, but not all. To determine if your BMW has Auto H, consult your owner’s manual or contact your local BMW dealership.
Finding the Auto H button in your car
If your BMW has Auto H, there should be a button located near the gear shift that allows you to turn the feature on and off.
Steps to Turning Off Auto H
To turn off Auto H in your BMW, locate the Auto H button near the gear shift and press it to disable the feature.
Precautions to take when turning off Auto H
It is important to note that turning off Auto H may impact your vehicle’s fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, turning off the feature may require you to adjust your driving style to ensure that your vehicle is not idling unnecessarily.
What to expect after turning off Auto H
After turning off Auto H, your BMW will no longer shift into neutral automatically when you come to a stop. This means that you will need to shift gears manually, using the clutch and gear shift.
Tips for Driving Without Auto H
If you’re looking to turn off the Auto H feature in your BMW, you may be wondering how to adjust your driving style to compensate. Here are some tips to help you get the hang of driving without Auto H:
- Pay attention to your speed: With Auto H turned off, your BMW won’t automatically maintain a constant speed, so you’ll need to keep an eye on your speedometer and adjust your speed accordingly.
- Use cruise control: Although you won’t have the Auto H feature to rely on, you can still use cruise control to help maintain a constant speed on the highway.
- Anticipate hills and curves: Without Auto H, you’ll need to anticipate hills and curves and adjust your speed accordingly. Try to maintain a steady speed going uphill and use engine braking to slow down when going downhill.
- Use your brakes more: With Auto H turned off, you’ll need to use your brakes more to slow down and stop. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time and space to brake.
- Keep your distance: With Auto H turned off, you’ll need to pay more attention to the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Leave plenty of space to allow for sudden stops.
Alternative Options to Turning Off Auto H
If you’re not comfortable driving without Auto H, there are a few alternative options you may want to consider:
- Adjust other features in your BMW: If you’re concerned about fuel consumption, you may be able to adjust other features in your BMW to help improve your fuel economy. For example, you could turn off the air conditioning or adjust your driving style to be more fuel-efficient.
- Install an aftermarket device: There are aftermarket devices available that can help you turn off Auto H or adjust other features in your BMW. However, be sure to research the device thoroughly and only purchase from a reputable manufacturer.
- Consult a professional: If you’re not comfortable making adjustments to your BMW on your own, you may want to consult a professional mechanic or dealership. They can provide guidance and help you make any necessary adjustments.
Conclusion:
Turning off Auto H in your BMW can be a personal choice that depends on your driving preferences and habits. While some drivers find the feature helpful, others prefer to have more control over their vehicles. Understanding how Auto H works and identifying the button in your car are important steps to take before turning it off. Once you’ve turned off Auto H, adjusting your driving style, paying attention to your speed, and using cruise control are some tips that can help you get used to driving without it. If you’re not comfortable turning off Auto H, there are alternative options to consider, such as adjusting other features in your BMW, installing an aftermarket device, or consulting a professional. By considering all your options, you can make an informed decision about whether turning off Auto H is right for you.
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