What does the RAV4 auto start-stop mean?
2 Answers
RAV4 auto start-stop is a system that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a temporary stop during driving and automatically restarts the engine when it's time to move forward again. Below is a detailed introduction to the car's auto start-stop function: 1. Auto start-stop button: The auto start-stop button is located to the left of the cigarette lighter, with an icon of a circle containing the letter A and the word OFF below. Simply press the button to turn off the auto start-stop. 2. Default activation: The auto start-stop is enabled by default. Every time the vehicle is restarted, the auto start-stop will be activated. This button cannot permanently disable the function; you need to press it each time you start the vehicle to turn off the auto start-stop.
Once when I was driving my RAV4 in traffic, the engine suddenly stopped, which gave me a scare. Later, I learned this is called auto start-stop—it automatically shuts off the engine when stopped, such as at a red light, to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, and restarts automatically when the light turns green or you release the brake. It saves a lot of fuel in daily city driving. This system uses sensors to determine when the vehicle is stopped, requiring no manual operation. In the RAV4 hybrid version, it operates even more smoothly, though there’s a slight vibration during restart, which might feel odd to new drivers but is something you get used to. Modern cars include this technology for environmental reasons. After driving with it for half a year, I’ve mostly adapted and now barely notice it. In fact, I’ve come to appreciate its quietness and energy efficiency, especially in heavy traffic areas where the fuel-saving effect is significant. Long-term use can reduce fuel costs. Although it occasionally restarts in short intervals, the impact is minimal.
