Does Auto Start-Stop Have to Be in D Gear?
2 Answers
To engage the auto start-stop function, you need to be in D gear. The correct operation requires pressing the brake pedal for the start-stop function to activate, allowing the engine to automatically shut off. When you release the brake pedal, the start-stop system will restart the engine. After auto start-stop, an automatic transmission car remains in D gear, and you can simply release the brake to proceed. For a manual transmission car, you need to press the clutch to start the vehicle and then shift into first gear to move forward. Below are some driving tips for automatic transmission cars: 1. Normal roads: There are no specific gear requirements; you can drive normally by staying in D gear. 2. Parking: When the engine is off, shift to P gear to indicate the car is no longer in use. Some cars require shifting to P gear to remove the key. 3. Reversing: After pressing the brake to stop the car from moving forward, shift to R gear and gently release the brake to reverse. 4. Waiting in traffic: When stopped or driving in congested areas, you can shift to N gear. 5. Highways or overtaking: You can shift to S gear. S gear is the car's sport mode, allowing free gear changes like D gear. It can also be used for climbing hills, as it provides maximum torque output and acceleration.
I've studied the working mechanism of the auto start-stop system, which primarily relies on the vehicle's gear position for activation. When the car is stopped in D gear, the system detects stationary wheels but with the engine in drive state, then automatically shuts off the engine to save fuel; upon releasing the brake or pressing the accelerator, it instantly restarts, designed for smooth driving and safety. If in other gears like P or N, the engine may not shut off, as the ECU (Engine Control Unit) determines the vehicle doesn't require start-stop activation, preventing stalling in parking lots or on slopes. Different models like Toyota or BMW behave differently; automatic transmission vehicles typically lock the system to work in D gear, while manual transmissions might allow activation in N gear but it's less common. Also, factors like battery charge and engine temperature matter; the system automatically disables start-stop in low temperatures. It's advisable to check the user manual for specific brand rules to avoid misuse. Overall, D gear is the core setting, ensuring fuel efficiency while preventing accidents.
