How to Use the Engine Start-Stop System?
4 Answers
For automatic transmission vehicles, as long as the car is started, the automatic start-stop system is in normal working condition. When encountering a red light or stopping for other reasons, step on the brake, and the engine will automatically shut off after two seconds. When starting again, simply release the brake and step on the accelerator, or gently turn the steering wheel, and the engine will restart. For manual transmission vehicles, the automatic start-stop system is also enabled by default. When stopping, shift to neutral, pull the handbrake, and release the clutch. After the system recognizes these three actions, it will automatically shut off the engine. When the clutch is pressed again, the engine will automatically restart. The engine start-stop technology automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle temporarily stops during driving. When it is necessary to continue moving forward, the system automatically restarts the engine.
The first time I used the engine start-stop system was at a red light intersection. The car automatically shut off, and I thought it was broken, but later I learned it was a fuel-saving design. Usually, there's a button labeled 'A' or 'ECO' on the car; pressing it turns the system on or off. Normally, when driving, the engine automatically shuts off when you stop and press the brake, like waiting at a red light for more than a few seconds. Releasing the brake or pressing the clutch restarts the engine. The system only works when it detects low speed and suitable ambient temperature. Using it frequently has saved me a lot of fuel—I visit the gas station one less time a month, especially useful in city traffic jams. However, beginners might need to get used to the momentary vibration. It's recommended to regularly check the battery and sensors to prevent system failure.
When I first started learning to drive, I was curious about how to use the start-stop function. After getting in the car, I looked for the switch button near the instrument panel, which is usually on by default—just press it to turn it off if needed; it also automatically reactivates after restarting the car. During actual driving, the engine automatically shuts off when stopping at a red light, and when I press the clutch or accelerator to start moving, the engine restarts. The fuel-saving effect is quite noticeable, especially for short urban commutes. However, it's important to note that the system may not work when the air conditioning is on to prevent affecting cooling performance. Initially, I was concerned about battery wear, but my instructor assured me that modern batteries are reinforced and can last over five years with normal use, so there's no need to worry.
I strongly support environmental protection, so I like the auto start-stop feature in cars. Simply starting the car activates the system by default, with no extra steps needed. It only turns off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop, like at traffic lights or in traffic jams, and restarts as soon as you start moving. The key point is that it reduces exhaust emissions, saving fuel and protecting the air during frequent stops and starts on city roads. I've noticed that the system temporarily deactivates when the air conditioning is on or when driving on steep slopes to ensure safety, but otherwise, it operates naturally. Getting used to it can actually help reduce your carbon footprint.
