Installation of start stop eliminator harness

[BarryB333]

LIke many, I don't like the default setting for the start stop system...and I ordered the wiring harness to install in my 2020 Forester. However, the item I received from Amazon did not come with instructions. So, I google the install instructions and while the seem pretty straightforward, the work is being done in and around the cameras. Has anyone done their own installation and if so, is it indeed pretty straightforward? Are any special precautions required? Or...if there are pitfalls, should I have my dealer do the install? If so, what are the usual costs for labor? I will be SO glad to get rid of the default stop start setting!

 

[Dick Foster]

The start stop eliminator comes with everything needed, the eliminator itself and a Y cable to double up the CAN bus connector. There are several install videos on their website. Although my unit plugged in under the driver's seat because I have the backup option, others plug into the eyesight cameras in the overhead. Its super simple to install. Go look at their websight. Everything you could possibly need is there. I think they even have your model year covered. You might have to remove and replace a couple of screws to access the overhead
CAN bus connector. As I recall you open the sunglass holder to access the screws. Look at the instructions on their sight. If you can plug in a table lamp, you can install this thing.

 

[BarryB333]

Thanks for the info. I'll look at the videos and give it a try. I think the only concern that I can see is avoiding touching the cameras as they are in close proximity to where the wiring harness goes.

 

[Dick Foster]

Shouldn't be a problem unless you're a gorilla or something.

 

[Lou O.]

I'm surprised the dealership will install this bypass device. It's a big brother government item, but, anyway , good luck!!

 

[bmart]

It is? How so? They're just trying to save money by moving the cost of fuel to the cost of starters and labor. lol

 

[2025 Forester]

I have installed the "Autostop Eliminator" on 4 vehicles - 2024 GMC Yukon, 2024 Forester Touring, and on two 2025 Forester Tourings. It is the greatest thing since sliced bread and the system retains all functions afterwards. It is easily installed.

 

[BarryB333]

Okay...I need help. I've got a 2020 Forester Touring. I have the stop start eliminator that I purchased from Amazon. I have googled for installation instructions and have received confliciting instructions. One site tells me to go into the side panel on the drivers side to access the plug, another tells me to remove the top panel where the cameras are and access the plug there...another advises me that the plug is under the drivers seat. The local dealer refuses to install the eliminator, citing CA State law (they are wrong as the only time the law is violated in CA is when you remove the system...the eliminator only allows for a difference in the way it's accessed). So...HOW do I access the plug on my 2020 forester??? I'm totally confused. The eliminator from Amazon did not come with instructions; only stating that it fits my vehicle and advised me to do a Google search for instructions. Does anyone have a link that shows the installation process? Or...detailed instructions? Thanks for any help you can provide !!!

 

[2025 Forester]

Is this a genuine "Autostop Eliminator" product? If so, there are two different models depending on whether or not you have "Reverse Automatic Braking", (RAB). If you have RAB the install is under the Driver's Seat, if no RAB the install is in the overhead console behind the cameras.

 

[BarryB333]

I've given up. I tried to install the eliminator yesterday. Both potential locations for installation were not compatible with the autostop eliminator. The plugs were different. I tried installing near the cameras above the mirror and under the seat as well. Neither worked. I have returned the eliminator to Amazon for a refund. I will try to find a repair shop somewhere that can install a bypass as I really am annoyed by the start stop system and the need to push a buttom before I drive my car. I see no justification for the start stop system anyway. Any savings in gas is eaten up by the wear and tear on the battery, starter, spark plugs and engine. The system is a knee jerk reaction to concerns about emissions. Frankly, if you factor in the emissions created by the premature replacment of worn out batteries, starters etc., I think there would be a good argument that it actually creates more emissions by using a start stop system. I'm venting...but am frustrated right now lol.

 

[2025 Forester]

I highly recommend buying a genuine "Autostop Eliminator" direct from the company. They work flawlessly and are easily installed.

 

[Dick Foster]

Is this a genuine "Autostop Eliminator" product? If so, there are two different models depending on whether or not you have "Reverse Automatic Braking", (RAB). If you have RAB the install is under the Driver's Seat, if no RAB the install is in the overhead console behind the cameras.

Same unit just different installs.
I guess if you have the autobraking backup system as I did, they figure it's just a tad easier to install it under the drivers seat instead of removing two screws to access the CAN bus connector connected to the eyesight cameras. Although I was beginning to think about installing it in the overhead as bending over and fumbling around under the seat at my age isn't as easy as it once was.
It's the same serial CAN bus in either location.
I've never regretted for a moment getting mine. That autostop was a pure PITA and a bad deal all around. Sheer stupidity that only some useless gubberment flunkey could dream up. I sure do hope that DOGE gets that turkey and boots him through the goal posts of life.

 

[Dick Foster]

I've given up. I tried to install the eliminator yesterday. Both potential locations for installation were not compatible with the autostop eliminator. The plugs were different. I tried installing near the cameras above the mirror and under the seat as well. Neither worked. I have returned the eliminator to Amazon for a refund. I will try to find a repair shop somewhere that can install a bypass as I really am annoyed by the start stop system and the need to push a buttom before I drive my car. I see no justification for the start stop system anyway. Any savings in gas is eaten up by the wear and tear on the battery, starter, spark plugs and engine. The system is a knee jerk reaction to concerns about emissions. Frankly, if you factor in the emissions created by the premature replacment of worn out batteries, starters etc., I think there would be a good argument that it actually creates more emissions by using a start stop system. I'm venting...but am frustrated right now lol.

Please share the link where you bought yours. The CAN bus is a standard and uses a common connector. As OBDII is also a standard but uses a different connector. In both cases the connector used is a mandantory part of the specification and can't be changed by the auto maker.

 

[2025 Forester]

Here's the Link:

Autostop Eliminator - Disable The Auto Start Stop Feature

The Autostop Eliminator is an intelligent tech device for your car, truck or SUV that will safely disable auto start-stop feature and remember your preference

www.autostopeliminator.com

 

[Dick Foster]

That's the right place and the right item. Maybe you're just not handy or have no technical skills to speak of. Theres nothing wrong with the item but maybe you should find some help from someone with some hands on ability. Trust me, this thing is super easy to install and works a treat.

 

[2025 Forester]

I've installed 4 of them, easy and they work!!!

 

[Dick Foster]

I've installed 4 of them, easy and they work!!!

I thought you were the original poster. I was thinking maybe he'd gotten the wrong item and that's why he was having so much trouble

 

[BarryB333]

I think they sent the wrong item as the plug did not match with what was on my forester.

 

[Dick Foster]

Or maybe you simply choose the wrong plug. They didn't get into this business yesterday and your's wasn't their first rodeo. Where did you buy the unit you had? Did you order the right unit for your year make model and trim? I think they're all the same anyway but ya just never know what kinda curve ball you'll see next.
I had to be careful because I have automatic rear braking so got the one that plugs into the RAB module under the driver seat instead of the eyesight camera system. Year, make, model and trim is important to get right.

 

[Dick Foster]

I see now that you got yours on Amazon and that may be your problem. I got mine directly from the Autostopeliminator.com website.
I gave up on Amazon years ago. They were always getting things all balled up and then they wanted me to pay extra just to give them business and that's just not going to happen in my lifetime. I think they just got too big for their britches and may have forgotten which side of the bread the butter is on.