How to Turn Off Auto Hold on Hyundai

Turning off Auto Hold on your Hyundai is quick and easy—just press the Auto Hold button near the gear shifter. This feature, designed to keep your car stationary at stops, can be disabled temporarily or permanently depending on your preference. Whether you’re driving in traffic or parking on a hill, knowing how to control this function gives you more driving flexibility.

This is a comprehensive guide about How To Turn Off Auto Hold On Hyundai.

Key Takeaways

• Auto Hold keeps your Hyundai stationary without pressing the brake pedal. It activates automatically when the car comes to a complete stop, helping reduce driver fatigue in traffic.
• You can turn off Auto Hold with a simple button press. Look for the Auto Hold button near the gear selector or center console—press it once to disable.
• Disabling Auto Hold is temporary by default. The system reactivates each time you restart the vehicle unless you disable it again.
• Some Hyundai models allow permanent deactivation via the infotainment system. Check your vehicle’s settings menu for an option to turn off Auto Hold permanently.
• Auto Hold works best on flat surfaces and mild inclines. On steep hills, use the parking brake for added safety, especially if Auto Hold is off.
• Drivers who prefer manual control may find Auto Hold intrusive. Turning it off gives you full command over braking and acceleration.
• Always test the feature in a safe environment. Before relying on or disabling Auto Hold, practice in an empty parking lot to understand how it behaves.

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What Is Auto Hold and Why Does It Matter?

Auto Hold is a smart safety and convenience feature found in many modern Hyundai vehicles, including popular models like the Hyundai Tucson, Santa Fe, Elantra, and Palisade. At its core, Auto Hold automatically applies the brakes when your car comes to a complete stop—like at a red light or in heavy traffic—so you don’t have to keep your foot pressed on the brake pedal. Once you press the accelerator, the system releases the brakes smoothly, allowing the car to move forward.

This feature is especially helpful in stop-and-go traffic, where constant braking can be tiring. Instead of holding the brake pedal down for minutes at a time, Auto Hold does the work for you. It uses electronic sensors and the vehicle’s brake system to detect when the car has stopped and engages the brakes automatically. The system works in conjunction with the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), making it both safe and reliable.

But why would anyone want to turn it off? While Auto Hold is designed to make driving easier, not all drivers enjoy the way it behaves. Some find the brake engagement too aggressive or notice a slight delay when accelerating from a stop. Others simply prefer the traditional feel of manually controlling the brakes. Additionally, in certain driving conditions—like steep hills or tight parking situations—some drivers feel more in control without Auto Hold active. Understanding how this feature works and how to manage it gives you greater control over your driving experience.

How to Turn Off Auto Hold on Hyundai: Step-by-Step Guide

Turning off Auto Hold on your Hyundai is a straightforward process that takes just a few seconds. The exact location of the Auto Hold button may vary slightly depending on your model and year, but the general steps remain consistent across most Hyundai vehicles. Here’s how to do it:

Locate the Auto Hold Button

The Auto Hold button is typically found near the gear shifter or on the center console, often labeled with the words “AUTO HOLD” or an icon that looks like a car with brake lines. On many Hyundai models, such as the 2023 Hyundai Tucson or Santa Fe, the button is positioned to the left or right of the gear selector. It’s usually a small, rectangular button with a light that illuminates when the feature is active.

If you’re having trouble finding it, consult your owner’s manual. Hyundai designs its interiors with user-friendly layouts, so the button is rarely hidden. In some newer models, the button may be integrated into a cluster of other driving mode switches, such as Drive Mode Select or Hill Start Assist. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the layout before driving.

Press the Button to Disable Auto Hold

Once you’ve located the button, simply press it once. You’ll notice the indicator light on the button turns off, signaling that Auto Hold has been disabled. At this point, the system will no longer automatically apply the brakes when you come to a stop. You’ll need to use the brake pedal manually to keep the car stationary.

For example, imagine you’re waiting at a long traffic light. With Auto Hold on, you can take your foot off the brake and the car stays put. But with it off, you must keep your foot on the brake or shift to Park (P) to prevent the car from rolling. This gives you more direct control, which some drivers prefer, especially in urban driving or when parking.

Confirm the Change on the Dashboard

After pressing the button, check your instrument cluster or dashboard display. Most Hyundai vehicles will show a message like “Auto Hold Off” or display an icon indicating the feature is inactive. This visual confirmation helps ensure the change has taken effect.

If the light remains on or the system doesn’t respond, try pressing the button again. Occasionally, the system may not register the input due to a temporary glitch. Turning the ignition off and on can also reset the system and allow you to disable Auto Hold successfully.

Understand Temporary vs. Permanent Deactivation

It’s important to note that turning off Auto Hold using the button is usually a temporary change. Every time you turn off the engine and restart the car, the system typically resets to its default state—meaning Auto Hold will be active again unless you disable it once more.

This behavior is by design, as Hyundai assumes most drivers will want the convenience of Auto Hold during daily driving. However, if you frequently prefer to drive without it, you may want to explore permanent deactivation options, which we’ll cover in a later section.

When Should You Turn Off Auto Hold?

While Auto Hold is a helpful feature, there are several situations where turning it off might be the better choice. Understanding these scenarios can help you decide when to disable the system for improved control, safety, or comfort.

Driving on Steep Hills or Inclines

Auto Hold is designed to work on flat roads and mild inclines, but it may not always provide enough braking force on steep hills. In such cases, relying solely on Auto Hold could result in slight rolling before the system engages. If you frequently drive in hilly areas—like San Francisco or mountainous regions—you may feel more secure using the parking brake or manually holding the brake pedal.

For example, imagine you’re parked on a steep driveway. With Auto Hold on, the system might hold the car for a few seconds, but if you release the brake too quickly, the car could roll backward before the accelerator response kicks in. Turning off Auto Hold and using the parking brake gives you more predictable control.

Towing or Carrying Heavy Loads

When towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load, the added weight can affect how your Hyundai responds to braking and acceleration. Auto Hold may not account for the extra momentum, leading to delayed brake release or insufficient holding power. In these situations, disabling Auto Hold allows you to manage braking more precisely, reducing the risk of rollback or loss of control.

Additionally, some drivers find that Auto Hold interferes with smooth towing maneuvers, especially when starting from a stop on an incline. Manual control over the brake and accelerator can make the process smoother and safer.

Performance or Sporty Driving

If you enjoy a more engaged driving experience—such as driving on winding roads or using manual shift modes—you might find Auto Hold interrupts the natural flow of driving. The automatic brake engagement can feel intrusive, especially when you’re used to modulating the pedals yourself.

For instance, when driving a Hyundai Elantra N Line or a Kona N, some enthusiasts prefer to disable Auto Hold to enjoy a more direct connection between the pedals and the car’s response. This is similar to how some drivers disable traction control during spirited driving—it’s about having full control.

Parking in Tight Spaces

When parallel parking or maneuvering in tight garages, Auto Hold can sometimes activate unexpectedly, making it harder to make small, precise movements. If you’re inching forward or backward, the system might interpret a brief stop as a full halt and engage the brakes, disrupting your rhythm.

Turning off Auto Hold in these situations allows for smoother, more controlled movements. You can use the brake pedal lightly without triggering the automatic hold, giving you better precision.

Personal Preference and Driving Style

Ultimately, driving is a personal experience, and not everyone enjoys automated features. Some drivers simply feel more confident when they’re in full control of the vehicle’s movements. If you’re someone who likes to feel every input and response, turning off Auto Hold might enhance your connection to the car.

It’s also worth noting that newer drivers or those transitioning from older vehicles might find Auto Hold disorienting at first. Disabling it can help build confidence and familiarity with the car’s braking behavior.

How to Permanently Disable Auto Hold (If Available)

As mentioned earlier, turning off Auto Hold with the physical button is usually temporary—the system reactivates after each engine restart. However, some Hyundai models offer the option to disable Auto Hold permanently through the vehicle’s infotainment or settings menu. This is especially common in newer models with advanced driver assistance systems.

Accessing the Settings Menu

To check if your Hyundai supports permanent deactivation, start by turning on the ignition and navigating to the main menu on your touchscreen display. Look for options like “Vehicle Settings,” “Driver Assistance,” or “Convenience Features.” These menus vary slightly by model and year, so refer to your owner’s manual if needed.

For example, in a 2023 Hyundai Palisade, you would tap the “Settings” icon, then select “Vehicle,” followed by “Convenience,” and finally “Auto Hold.” From there, you may see a toggle switch to turn the feature off permanently.

Enabling Permanent Deactivation

If the option is available, simply toggle the switch to “Off.” The system will save this preference, and Auto Hold will remain disabled even after restarting the vehicle. This is ideal for drivers who consistently prefer manual braking control.

Keep in mind that not all Hyundai models offer this feature. Older vehicles or base trims may only allow temporary deactivation via the button. If you don’t see the option in your settings, it likely means permanent deactivation isn’t supported.

Reactivating Auto Hold

If you change your mind later, you can easily re-enable Auto Hold by going back into the settings menu and toggling it back on. Alternatively, pressing the physical Auto Hold button will also reactivate the feature temporarily.

It’s a good idea to test both methods to understand how your specific Hyundai model behaves. Some systems may require you to press the button after re-enabling it in the menu, while others activate it automatically.

Safety Tips and Best Practices

Whether you choose to keep Auto Hold on or turn it off, safety should always be your top priority. Here are some best practices to ensure a smooth and secure driving experience.

Always Use the Parking Brake on Inclines

Even with Auto Hold active, it’s wise to use the parking brake when parked on a hill. This provides an extra layer of security and reduces stress on the brake system. When Auto Hold is off, using the parking brake is even more important to prevent rolling.

Test the Feature in a Safe Area

Before relying on or disabling Auto Hold in real-world conditions, practice in an empty parking lot. Come to a complete stop, observe how the system engages, and test the transition from brake to accelerator. This helps you understand the timing and behavior of the feature.

Stay Alert in Traffic

Auto Hold reduces physical effort, but it doesn’t replace driver attention. Always stay focused on the road, especially in heavy traffic. Don’t assume the car will hold indefinitely—monitor your surroundings and be ready to react.

Check for Software Updates

Hyundai occasionally releases software updates that improve the performance of features like Auto Hold. Visit your local dealership or use the Hyundai Bluelink app to check for updates that might enhance functionality or fix bugs.

Know Your Vehicle’s Limits

Auto Hold is not a substitute for proper driving techniques. It’s designed to assist, not replace, driver input. Understand how your Hyundai responds in different conditions and adjust your driving style accordingly.

Conclusion

Auto Hold is a valuable feature that enhances comfort and convenience in modern Hyundai vehicles. It reduces fatigue in traffic, prevents rollback on mild inclines, and simplifies stop-and-go driving. However, it’s not for everyone. Some drivers prefer the tactile feedback of manual braking, while others find the system intrusive in certain situations.

The good news is that turning off Auto Hold is simple and reversible. With just a button press—or a quick dive into the settings menu—you can disable the feature and regain full control over your vehicle’s braking. Whether you’re driving on steep hills, towing a trailer, or simply prefer a more hands-on experience, knowing how to manage Auto Hold empowers you to drive the way you want.

Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate helpful technology, but to use it wisely. By understanding how Auto Hold works and when to turn it off, you can make smarter decisions behind the wheel. So the next time you’re behind the wheel of your Hyundai, take a moment to consider your driving needs—and don’t hesitate to customize your experience. After all, the best car is one that fits your style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I permanently turn off Auto Hold on all Hyundai models?

No, permanent deactivation is only available on select Hyundai models through the infotainment settings. Most vehicles only allow temporary disabling via the physical button, which resets after each engine restart.

Will turning off Auto Hold affect my warranty?

No, disabling Auto Hold does not void your warranty. It’s a standard feature that can be turned on or off by the driver and does not impact the vehicle’s mechanical or electrical systems.

Does Auto Hold work in reverse?

No, Auto Hold only activates when the vehicle is in Drive (D) or Reverse (R) and comes to a complete stop. It does not function when the car is in Park (P) or Neutral (N).

Why won’t my Auto Hold turn off?

If the button doesn’t respond, try restarting the vehicle or checking for software updates. In rare cases, a faulty sensor or brake system issue may prevent the feature from functioning properly—consult a Hyundai technician if problems persist.

Is Auto Hold the same as Hill Start Assist?

No, they are different features. Hill Start Assist prevents rollback when starting on an incline, while Auto Hold keeps the car stationary at any stop. Some Hyundai models include both features working together.

Can I turn off Auto Hold while driving?

Yes, you can disable Auto Hold at any time by pressing the button. However, it’s safest to do so when the vehicle is stationary or moving at low speed to avoid distractions.