How to Use Engine Start-Stop Technology and Auto Hold?
4 Answers
When using both the engine start-stop technology and auto hold functions together, pressing the brake pedal firmly will turn off the engine and engage the parking brake. Releasing the brake pedal will maintain this state. To start moving, lightly press the accelerator pedal, which will release the parking state and restart the engine. Then, pressing the accelerator pedal again allows the vehicle to drive. Engine start-stop technology is a system that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a temporary stop (e.g., at a red light) during driving and automatically restarts the engine when it's time to move forward. The working principle of the start-stop system is: when the vehicle stops due to traffic congestion or at an intersection, and the driver presses the brake pedal to stop and shift to neutral, the 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. When these three conditions are met, the engine automatically stops turning. Auto hold refers to an automatic braking function. After activating this function, for example, when stopping at a red light, it eliminates the need to use the handbrake or electronic parking brake, simplifying operations. For automatic transmission models, it also avoids frequent shifting between D to N or D to P.
As a seasoned driver who's driven many cars, I find the auto start-stop technology works automatically at red lights in the city: the engine shuts off when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and restarts instantly when releasing the brake, saving fuel and keeping things quiet. The auto hold function activates automatically on slopes or when waiting to start moving, holding the vehicle after stopping so I don't need to keep my foot on the brake - just press the accelerator to go. It's super easy to use: the system defaults to on after starting, with dashboard lights indicating status, and a button allows manual on/off control. I usually keep it on all the time for worry-free driving in traffic jams, though the start-stop might delay slightly when running maximum AC in summer. Regular battery maintenance is important to prevent low charge from affecting the system. Long-term use can save hundreds in fuel costs annually - eco-friendly and economical. New drivers shouldn't worry, you'll get used to it quickly.
I just bought a car six months ago, and as a beginner, I was curious about these two features. The auto start-stop function automatically turns off the engine when the car stops, and it restarts when the light turns green and I release the brake. The auto hold function locks the wheels after stopping on a slope, so I don't have to worry about rolling back when starting. It's simple to operate: as soon as I start the engine, the system is ready, and the dashboard displays the icons. At first, I was afraid the sudden engine shutdown would be annoying, but I got used to it, and it's very smooth now. Just be careful not to rely on the auto start-stop in flooded areas or when pressing the accelerator hard, as it can easily cause issues. Keeping the tire pressure normal makes the system more reliable. As a beginner, I read the manual often and practiced driving in the city to save fuel and effort, making it easier and more comfortable.
As an environmental enthusiast, I highly recommend the start-stop technology: the engine automatically shuts off when stopping at red lights to reduce emissions, and restarts when releasing the brake to save fuel. The auto-hold function maintains braking status when parked on slopes, avoiding extra fuel consumption during starts. The usage method is convenient: it activates by default after the vehicle starts, requiring no additional operations. To maximize energy-saving effects, I ensure the system is always on and the battery is fully charged. The effect is more noticeable at low temperatures, as even short stops can accumulate significant savings. Combined with gentle driving habits, I feel at ease even in traffic jams. Overall, it not only reduces carbon emissions but also extends the vehicle's lifespan.
