What is the function of the ECON button in Honda cars?
2 Answers
ECON stands for the low-carbon and eco-friendly driving mode. This button can turn the energy-saving mode on or off. Modern cars generally offer three driving modes to choose from: Eco mode, Comfort mode, and Sport mode. Below is information about these three modes: Eco mode: When the car is in this mode, fuel consumption is relatively low. The throttle pedal sensitivity decreases, and the transmission shifts up more aggressively. Comfort mode: This mode can be considered a normal operating mode for the car. In this mode, the throttle pedal response is more sensitive than in Eco mode. Sport mode: Sport mode can be used during aggressive driving. When Sport mode is activated, the throttle pedal response becomes highly sensitive, and the transmission delays shifting. The transmission will only upshift when the engine speed reaches the redline. After switching to Sport mode, the engine speed is maintained at around 3,000 RPM, ensuring better power response during acceleration. When the car enters ECON mode, it achieves reduced fuel consumption and energy savings, but the car's power output weakens. ECON can be understood as an abbreviation for "economy." In most cases, it is recommended to keep ECON mode on. Only when high torque output is needed (e.g., when climbing a hill) or when driving at very high speeds should ECON mode be turned off. Pressing the ECON button activates the low-carbon and eco-friendly driving mode. Subsequently, the ECU, engine, and transmission operate intelligently in the most fuel-efficient manner, achieving optimal fuel economy through rapid upshifts and smooth acceleration. When the driver presses the throttle pedal deeply, the ECON system effectively controls the opening and closing of the intake valves to ensure smooth engine operation and energy savings. Although ECON mode is simple and effective to operate, it does not work under certain conditions: When the vehicle speed exceeds 120 km/h, priority is given to speed, and the Eco mode automatically deactivates. This means if the speed exceeds the economical range (typically between 60-90 km/h), ECON mode will not save fuel. The key to ECON mode is the independent operation of the car's computer while driving, making it effective. Therefore, during idle parking or in N, P, or manual modes, ECON does not function. When overcoming significant resistance or requiring high torque output (e.g., when climbing a hill), the ECU prioritizes ensuring sufficient power to drive the car, and ECON mode will not work in such cases.
I noticed the ECON button right after I started driving my Honda, and I often use it in city traffic jams. When pressed, the engine response becomes noticeably smoother, with less aggressive acceleration, but it feels much more comfortable and worry-free. The car automatically optimizes the engine's power output and adjusts the air conditioning to be milder, like reducing the cooling intensity in summer to avoid waste. Over time, fuel consumption can indeed drop by 5%-10%, saving me dozens of dollars on gas each month. It's most useful in traffic jams because it prevents the engine from frequently revving aggressively, making the ride smoother and quieter. No professional operation is needed—just press it to turn on the light, which is quite convenient. I recommend keeping it on during daily commutes unless you need extra power for highway overtaking. The button is designed to make driving more economical and environmentally friendly.
