How to Use Engine Start-Stop Technology?
4 Answers
Start-stop system works as follows: when the vehicle comes to a halt due to traffic congestion or at intersections, the driver depresses the brake pedal and shifts to neutral. At this point, the Start/Stop system automatically checks: the engine is idling and not in gear; the wheel speed sensors of the anti-lock system show zero; the electronic battery sensor indicates sufficient energy for the next start. Once these three conditions are met, the engine automatically stops running. More details are as follows: 1. Engine start-stop technology automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle temporarily stops during driving (e.g., waiting at a red light). When it's time to move forward again, the system automatically restarts the engine. Simply press the brake pedal while driving, and the engine will automatically shut off about two seconds after the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Keeping the brake pedal depressed will maintain the engine in the off state. 2. As soon as the brake is released or the steering wheel is turned, the engine will immediately restart automatically, allowing the driver to press the accelerator and start moving again—all while remaining in Drive (D) mode. 3. Technology overview: Engine start-stop automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle temporarily stops during driving (e.g., waiting at a red light). When it's time to proceed, the system automatically restarts the engine.
When I first bought the car, it had this technology. After starting the vehicle, there was usually a button on the dashboard labeled A or Auto Stop. Pressing it would activate the system. When stopping, pressing the brake until the car came to a complete halt would automatically shut off the engine; releasing the brake and pressing the accelerator would immediately restart the engine. At first, the vibration felt a bit strange, but I got used to it and saved quite a bit on fuel. In city driving with frequent red lights, it could reduce fuel consumption by 10%. After driving for two years, I saved a significant amount on fuel costs. However, the system might automatically deactivate when using air conditioning in hot weather or when the battery is aging, so it's recommended to regularly maintain and check the battery. Don't worry, the starter motor is designed for durability and won't break easily.
As an ordinary office worker, I use the start-stop function for my daily commute. After starting the engine, I locate the start-stop switch on the center console and press it until the light turns on, activating the system. When stopping at a red light, the engine shuts off, saving fuel and keeping things quiet; pressing the accelerator at a green light resumes driving. The main advantage is reduced fuel consumption in traffic jams, but the frequent restarts can be annoying, so I turn off the button for short stops. The system works properly only with a healthy battery, so I check it every six months. Overall, it's convenient and cost-effective.
From an environmental perspective, the engine start-stop technology automatically shuts off the engine at red lights to reduce exhaust emissions, requiring no additional operation while driving. Simply press a switch after starting to activate the system, making it energy-efficient and highly effective when idling. I strongly recommend it as it helps reduce environmental pollution—every liter of fuel saved means less pollution. Combining it with the trend of electric vehicles makes for an even greener solution.
