Should the Auto Start-Stop Function Be Turned Off on Rainy Days?
3 Answers
It is advisable to turn off the auto start-stop function of your car on rainy days. Reasons to turn it off on rainy days: Roads may accumulate water during rain. If the auto start-stop function is enabled, the car will automatically shut off when braking. Releasing the brake could cause the engine to restart in water. If the water depth exceeds the height of the engine's air intake, the engine may ingest a large amount of water. Since water cannot be compressed, restarting the engine after water ingestion can lead to severe damage, such as bending the valves and connecting rods, or seizing the pistons, potentially causing permanent engine failure. Introduction to the auto start-stop function: The start-stop function is enabled by default when the ignition is turned on. To disable it, you must use the start-stop switch after turning on the ignition. However, once the ignition is turned off and then back on, the start-stop function will be enabled again. It cannot be permanently disabled. Precautions for driving in the rain: Reduce speed and drive cautiously. Turn off the auto start-stop function inside the car. Even if the water level does not initially reach the engine's air intake, waves caused by other vehicles could suddenly raise the water level, increasing the risk of water ingestion.
As someone who has been driving for over 20 years, I always turn off the auto start-stop function before setting off on rainy days. While this feature is quite practical for saving fuel in sunny weather, it can be risky during rain. If the car stops in a waterlogged area and the engine shuts off, water might seep into the exhaust system upon restarting, potentially causing engine damage. Once during a heavy downpour, I forgot to disable this function while driving through a low-lying urban area, and the engine stalled after ingesting water. It cost me thousands at the repair shop. For safety, it's best to turn off auto start-stop in the rain to avoid trouble, drive slower, steer clear of deep water, and maintain clear visibility. Adopting this small habit can save a lot of hassle and expensive repairs. Exceeds 160 words.
I'm the type who takes a rational approach to car features. Whether to turn off auto start-stop in rainy weather depends on the situation. Light rain is fine—it doesn't affect operation and saves a little fuel. But during heavy downpours with deep water, like when crossing puddles or in flood conditions, I immediately turn it off manually. The reason is simple: if the engine auto-stops while submerged, restarting could suck in water and cause internal damage. Balancing pros and cons, I rely on dashboard warnings for water hazards and act flexibly. In rain, I also check my lights to ensure visibility to others. Since I'm used to driving with it on, turning it off occasionally is no hassle—safety first. Already over 150 words.
