Can the ECO mode be kept on frequently?

[DallasFitz]

You can frequently drive with the ECO mode on. ECO mode, also known as Economy Mode, is particularly effective for fuel saving when driving in congested urban traffic conditions. Under ECO mode operation, engine carbon buildup is essentially similar to that produced under normal driving modes, so the ECO mode can be kept on continuously. The main principle of ECO mode is not complicated. It involves comprehensive judgment and analysis of factors affecting fuel consumption during vehicle movement, such as automatic transmission gear position, engine speed, vehicle speed, braking, and transmission oil temperature. The ECU control unit then calculates the optimal fuel quantity to supply the engine for operation, effectively reducing fuel consumption compared to normal driving modes. Simply put, it controls engine speed with appropriate gear selection to minimize unnecessary fuel consumption. ECO is an abbreviation, with the Chinese translation representing Ecology (environmental protection), Conservation (energy saving), and Optimization (power). ECO mode is further divided into active ECO driving mode and passive ECO driving mode. When the ECO indicator light on the dashboard illuminates, it indicates that the vehicle's economy mode is activated. ECO mode is categorized into active and passive types. The difference lies in the fact that the active type has its own dedicated button, allowing the driver to choose whether to activate it. When the driver presses the ECO mode switch, the dashboard indicator light turns on, and the vehicle automatically begins adjusting settings such as throttle opening, transmission shift logic, and air conditioning output power. Passive ECO mode does not have a dedicated button. When the dashboard ECO indicator light illuminates, it merely serves as a reminder function. ECO automatically evaluates your driving behavior. If your current driving operation achieves the optimal fuel supply, the dashboard will simultaneously display the ECO indicator light. Most vehicles employ active ECO driving mode, meaning they have their own switch button. Therefore, during daily driving, we can keep the ECO mode on except when driving at speeds exceeding 120 km/h, during idle parking, in N/P gear, or in manual mode, especially when climbing hills. In these scenarios, activating ECO mode would not demonstrate its fuel-saving characteristics. Additionally, ECO mode typically becomes ineffective under the following circumstances: When the vehicle speed exceeds 120 km/h, the system prioritizes speed, and ECO mode automatically deactivates. During idle parking or in N/P gear and manual mode, ECO mode may also become ineffective. When high torque output is required, such as when climbing a hill, the engine control unit prioritizes ensuring sufficient power to drive the vehicle, and ECO mode will not operate in such cases.

[StephenDella]

I drive to and from work every day with the Eco mode on, and I find it incredibly fuel-efficient. Over a month, I save about 100 to 200 yuan on fuel costs. Especially in city traffic jams, it automatically adjusts throttle response to avoid unnecessary acceleration, significantly reducing fuel consumption. However, the power output is indeed softer—for example, starting from a green light feels a bit sluggish, and when in a hurry, you need to press the accelerator harder to speed up. On weekends, when taking my family out, driving in the city or on flat highways is no problem, with no impact on safety. Long-term use won’t damage the car; the computer system is smart enough. But in complex conditions like mountain roads or heavy rain, I turn it off to ensure sufficient power. After all, Eco mode is designed for energy efficiency, and getting used to it is great—it’s also more environmentally friendly.

[Correia]

I've been using Eco mode for several years and found it can be frequently activated, especially during urban commuting or long-distance steady-speed driving. The fuel-saving effect is incredibly practical, reducing fuel consumption by about 10%. Small savings add up over time. The power response becomes gentler, making driving more stable and reducing sudden braking/acceleration that wears out car components. The only note is to turn it off on slopes or when overtaking to prevent insufficient power. The AC also automatically lowers fan speed – temperature control is decent in summer though it feels slightly less cool on hot days, but overall safety isn't compromised. Personally, regular use is fine; the key is adjusting based on actual road conditions. Once habitual, driving becomes more relaxed and worry-free.