By Devin Pratt
Modern cars are engineered to optimize fuel economy In various manners. A key aspect of this is the auto start/stop functionality which powers down the engine during idle periods and reignites it once you release the brakes or press the gas pedal. Yet, to what extent does this innovation truly make a difference? save you on gas ?
Based on varying driving circumstances, the enhancements in fuel efficiency provided by the start/stop feature ranged from 7.27% and 26.4% in fuel consumption During testing, as per guidelines from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
If your vehicle is always running on highways without stopping, the fuel efficiency will likely decrease," explains Alex Knizek, who works as an associate director for auto test development at Consumer Reports. "However, when you're frequently stuck in city traffic with lots of stops, start-stop technology can genuinely help reduce fuel consumption.
Not every system is identical. Many cars utilize just one absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery to power all of the vehicle’s 12-volt electrical components. The AGM battery is engineered to deplete at a slower rate, thereby extending its life span compared to conventional lead-acid automobile batteries. Certain auto makers like BMW, Jeep, and Mercedes-Benz provide models commonly known as “ mild hybrids These cars feature a compact electric motor that aids the gasoline engine. This setup enables the vehicle to glide with the engine turned off and keeps the engine inactive for extended periods when stopped at traffic lights. Such hybrid models utilize an additional battery to operate the start/stop mechanism.
No matter if your vehicle has one or two batteries For the start-stop system, or whether it’s a mild hybrid or not, this technology is intended to manage the frequent restarting and halting of the engine.
There can be a misunderstanding that these systems are detrimental to the engine or starter, leading some drivers to deactivate them," explains Knizek. These features are created for their intended purpose; however, similar to all additional functionalities, there exists a chance that they may require servicing or repairs in the future.
Knizek remarks, "There are individuals who find these systems bothersome and press the system’s off button immediately after starting their vehicle." Such an action might prove useful when dealing with short stops and needing swift acceleration to merge into traffic, since the stop/start systems may introduce minor delays during engine restarts. Although these buttons disable the system mid-drive, every subsequent startup of your car automatically reactivates the stop/start feature.
More Car Questions Answered
• Are There Still Break-in Requirements for New Vehicles?
• What Is the Quickest Method to De-mist Your Car Windows?
• Do You Need to Fill Up Your Car’s GasTank Completely?
• How to Eliminate the Fusty Odor from Your Vehicle’s AC System
• What Occurs When You Switch Off Your Vehicle While Operating It?
Editor’s Note: This article has been adapted from an episode of " Talking Cars. ”
Consumer Reports is an independent, non-profit entity working alongside consumers to build a more equitable, secure, and healthy environment. They do not promote specific goods or services and refrain from accepting advertisements. Copyright © 2024, Consumer Reports, Inc.
