What is the difference between auto start-stop and autohold?
4 Answers
The differences between auto start-stop and autohold are: 1. Different functions: Auto start-stop is a system that controls the engine's start and stop; autohold is an automatic parking function that automatically engages the handbrake. 2. Different purposes: Auto start-stop temporarily turns off the engine when the vehicle stops after braking; automatic parking actively holds the brake for the driver when the vehicle stops after braking. Auto start-stop automatically shuts off the engine during temporary stops while driving and automatically restarts the engine when it's time to move forward. Autohold refers to an automatic braking function. When activated, for example, when stopping at a traffic light, it eliminates the need to pull the handbrake.
After years of driving, I've noticed a significant difference between auto start-stop and autohold. Auto start-stop turns off the engine at red lights or in traffic to save fuel, and it restarts immediately when you press the accelerator, which is great for saving some money in the city but can be a bit annoying with the AC on in summer. Autohold, on the other hand, automatically locks the brakes after stopping, preventing the car from rolling, which is especially handy on slopes when waiting for traffic lights—no need to keep your foot on the brake pedal. The biggest difference is that start-stop saves fuel and energy, while autohold offers safety and convenience by preventing rollback. Using them together efficiently in daily driving can be very effective, like using start-stop plus autohold for a relaxed break at long red lights. However, you might want to manually turn off start-stop on bumpy roads to avoid frequent engine shut-offs. New car features are great, but they take some getting used to.
As a driving enthusiast, I believe auto start-stop and autohold are two different things. Auto start-stop automatically shuts off the engine when stopping to reduce emissions, and restarts it immediately when moving again, which helps the environment but the sudden engine noise can be a bit jarring. Autohold, on the other hand, is when the braking system automatically engages, keeping the brakes applied once the car is stationary, preventing rollback on slopes or at red lights even when you release the foot brake—purely for driving convenience and safety. The difference is that auto start-stop manages the engine for fuel savings, while autohold manages the brakes to prevent slipping. In urban traffic jams, auto start-stop saves a bit of fuel but the frequent engine shut-offs can be annoying, whereas autohold makes driving easier, especially on slopes. I recommend using both but not over-relying on them.
Fuel-saving expert explains the difference: Auto Start-Stop automatically turns off the engine when parked, saving fuel and reducing emissions with significant environmental benefits; Auto Hold automatically applies the brakes when parked to prevent slipping, enhancing safety and comfort but unrelated to fuel consumption. Start-Stop conserves resources by reducing engine operation, while Auto Hold is a mechanical aid for driving convenience - two distinct functions that don't interfere with each other. For daily fuel cost savings, the Start-Stop feature is a valuable tool worth promoting.
