Is It Better to Turn On or Off the BMW Auto Start-Stop?
3 Answers
Whether it is better to turn on or off the BMW auto start-stop depends on the specific situation. The auto start-stop is typically used during urban driving. If the vehicle is traveling on less congested road sections, the start-stop can be turned on for normal use. However, if driving in heavily congested areas, it is advisable to turn off the start-stop, as frequent engine starts can lead to excessive battery discharge and affect the battery's lifespan. Taking the BMW 3 Series 2021 Facelift 320i Sport Package as an example: the manufacturer of this car is BMW Brilliance, classified as a mid-size car, with a gasoline energy type, and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
I think BMW's auto start-stop feature is quite beneficial, especially in cities with heavy traffic. It automatically turns off the engine when the car stops, reducing fuel wasted from idling and saving a significant amount of expenses. Every day I drive, I save a bit on fuel costs, and over time, it adds up to more than expected. More importantly, it reduces exhaust emissions, making it environmentally friendly—like making a small contribution to the planet. BMW's technology is quite mature, with fast start-stop reactions that don’t compromise driving safety. Some worry that frequent starts might damage the battery, but modern car designs have optimized this, pairing it with high-spec AGM batteries, so the lifespan isn’t that fragile. As long as the battery is healthy, using this feature is both economical and eco-friendly. During short stops or when using the AC, it automatically balances the power, giving me peace of mind. In busy traffic areas, using it makes my driving greener.
Turning it off is more comfortable, especially for a commuter like me who drives a BMW in the city every day. With the start-stop system enabled, the engine shuts off at red lights and gives a noticeable jolt upon restarting, which feels quite unpleasant. This is particularly annoying on hot days when the air conditioning is on—the blower keeps running while the engine is off, putting extra strain on the battery and potentially affecting startup responsiveness. Frequent restarts during short stops disrupt the driving rhythm, diminishing BMW's sporty driving experience. While enabling it in suburban areas or during long stops might save a bit of fuel, I believe comfort outweighs those minor savings. Turning it off keeps the engine running, making the cabin smoother and quieter, resulting in a more pleasant drive. On highways, it’s unnecessary anyway, so disabling it only in urban areas is sufficient. After this flexible adjustment, my daily commute is no longer irritating, and my driving mood has lightened significantly.
