Two experts reveal the truth about the automatic start-stop function. Is it really worth using?
Has it ever happened to you that you stop at a traffic light and suddenly the engine of your car shuts off as if it had decided to take a break? A second later, you barely touch the accelerator and it comes back to life, as if nothing had happened. Well, this is neither a glitch nor a magic trick. It’s the ‘start-stop’ system, that feature that manufacturers claim will help you save fuel and reduce emissions. But, is it really as useful as they say or is it just another annoyance behind the wheel?
It sounds great, doesn’t it? Lower consumption, less pollution, greater efficiency… at least in theory. However, many drivers deactivate it as soon as they start the car. Is this marvel of engineering not as perfect as they would have us believe?
An ally of savings or the hidden enemy of the starter motor?
Here comes the big concern for drivers: without start-stop, the starter motor only works once per journey; however, with it activated, it is used every time the car stops. Does this mean that your starter motor is doomed to die prematurely?
According to Kye Grisham, Vice President of Automotive Technology and Procurement at Christian Brothers Automotive Corporation, the answer is a resounding ‘no’. As he explains, these starters are not like the ones of yesteryear. They are designed to withstand a much greater number of starts and stops without compromising their durability. In addition, many of these systems include technologies that reduce the initial rotational speed to minimise wear and tear.
Thomas Diamond, an automotive technology specialist at Father Judge High School, reinforces Grisham’s opinion and explains that modern starters are more robust and resistant. He also says that it cannot be compared to the old starting systems. In other words, if your car comes with this feature, it is ready to support it.
Should you deactivate start-stop? It depends on how you like to drive
If you’re in a never-ending traffic jam and you don’t like the engine constantly switching on and off, you can deactivate the function with a single button. But if you’re looking to optimise fuel consumption and reduce emissions without doing anything extra, it’s best to leave it on. As Grishman explains, for city drivers who want to save petrol, it’s a smart option.
In the end, the decision is yours. The important thing is that, if you decide to use start-stop, you can rest assured that your car is designed to support it without problems.
Leave it on or turn it off?
The start-stop system has clear advantages in terms of fuel economy and reduced emissions, but it also has some disadvantages in terms of comfort and mechanical demands. Although manufacturers have designed modern vehicles to withstand it without problems, the final decision depends on the driver’s preferences and driving style.
If you care about maximising fuel efficiency and reducing your environmental footprint, leaving it on is the best option. If you prioritise comfort and avoid possible wear and tear on the battery or starting system, turning it off may be more convenient for you.
Who are the experts behind this information?
- Kye Grisham is a leading figure in the world of automotive technology. As Vice President of Automotive Technology and Procurement at Christian Brothers Automotive Corporation, he has years of experience analysing and optimising mechanical systems to improve the efficiency and durability of modern vehicles.
- Thomas Diamond is an expert in automotive training and outreach. As an automotive technology specialist at Father Judge High School, he is dedicated to teaching new generations about mechanical and electronic advances in the automotive industry.
