Does the Auto Start-Stop Function Harm the Engine?
3 Answers
Auto start-stop function has a certain impact on the engine, but the impact is very minimal and does not affect the engine's service life. When car manufacturers produce engines with auto start-stop, the designed lifespan of the auto start-stop function is 500,000 cycles. Even if it starts 100 times a day, it would take about 17 to 18 years to reach that limit. The real significant impact on the engine occurs during cold starts, when the oil circuit and engine oil are circulating. Auto start-stop involves hot starts, where the engine already has oil lubrication. Therefore, even frequent start-stops cause minimal wear to the engine. The start-stop function only stops the engine from working, but the oil system continues to operate, ensuring better lubrication when the car starts again, which also helps protect the engine.
I've driven several cars equipped with automatic start-stop systems, and based on my experience, it typically doesn't harm the engine because modern systems are designed with this in mind. The start-stop function shuts off the engine when the car is stationary and restarts it using an enhanced starter motor and optimized battery, which is gentler than a regular start. Additionally, the engine's thermal cycle and materials have been upgraded for greater durability. I often use the start-stop feature in city traffic jams, and it has indeed saved me a lot on fuel costs. Every time I press the brake, the engine stops, and when I accelerate, it restarts almost imperceptibly. However, maintenance is crucial—regularly checking the start system components or changing the engine oil is essential. Neglecting these could lead to minor wear over time. Overall, this technology has advanced significantly, and car owners shouldn't worry too much. Just remember to mention the start-stop system during seasonal maintenance checks to help extend the car's lifespan.
As someone who frequently commutes short distances in the city, I find the auto start-stop feature quite practical, and the engine generally doesn't suffer much damage. My car has used the start-stop function for over two years, automatically shutting down and restarting hundreds of times in traffic jams, yet the engine remains in good condition—more reliable than I expected. The key lies in its use of more robust starting components to reduce impact, and modern engines are designed with this feature integrated. I haven't encountered major issues; in fact, I save about 10% on monthly fuel costs. Of course, some people worry about wear and tear, such as the starter frequently working and potentially aging, but my personal experience suggests that as long as the battery and drivetrain are maintained on schedule, the risk is minimal. Additionally, pairing it with good driving habits, like avoiding too many start-stop cycles in a short time, can maximize the benefits and avoid unnecessary concerns.
