Is It Better to Keep the Auto Start-Stop Function On or Off?
2 Answers
Whether the auto start-stop function should be kept on or off depends on different road conditions: 1. If there are many traffic lights and the road is not too congested, using the auto start-stop function can save fuel and simplify operation steps, so it is better to keep it on in this case; 2. If the road is heavily congested, it will not only increase carbon deposits but also fuel consumption, so it is better to turn it off in this scenario. The auto start-stop function refers to the engine automatically shutting off when the car is temporarily stopped or waiting at a red light during normal operation, and automatically restarting when the car starts moving again.
As someone who frequently drives in the city, I find the auto start-stop feature quite beneficial. It automatically shuts off the engine at red lights and restarts when needed, which saves a significant amount of fuel in congested areas. Data shows that long-term use can reduce fuel consumption by around 10%, equivalent to saving hundreds of dollars annually on gas, while also benefiting the environment by cutting carbon emissions. However, if traffic is too frequent, the restarting sound might become annoying. I've experienced multiple start-stops during peak hours, which felt uncomfortable, but as long as extreme situations are avoided, keeping it on daily is cost-effective. Maintenance-wise, modern systems are well-designed and mature, unlikely to damage the starter easily unless the car is very old. I recommend giving it a try to see if it suits your driving habits.
