Motorists in the UK are being advised to reconsider their reliance on an eco-friendly feature that could lead to costly consequences in the future. The automatic start/stop system, touted for fuel efficiency and emission reduction benefits, may actually harm the engine, caution experts at car repair finance specialists at Bumper.
Now a standard feature in most new vehicles, the start/stop function shuts off the engine when the car is stationary, such as at traffic lights or in slow-moving traffic. When the driver accelerates, the engine restarts automatically, reducing unnecessary idling, cutting fuel consumption, enhancing efficiency, and decreasing carbon emissions. However, industry insiders warn that excessive use of this technology can strain vital components, potentially leading to expensive repairs over time.
Bumper’s experts emphasize that while start/stop systems aim to improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions, they can strain crucial engine parts like the starter motor and battery. This strain, compounded by frequent stops and starts, can adversely affect the vehicle’s longevity.
Renowned mechanic Scotty Kilmer, known for his popular car maintenance content on YouTube, shared a viral tip highlighting that most engine wear occurs during ignition. Constantly starting and stopping the car only exacerbates this wear and tear.
Bumper recommends that drivers on short, stop-start urban journeys should be cautious, suggesting to disable the start/stop system when appropriate to safeguard the engine and reduce long-term expenses. Although easily deactivatable in most cars with a dashboard button, Bumper advises against completely disregarding the feature, recommending judicious use to prevent overstrain.
For daily commutes in heavy stop-start traffic, especially with older vehicles or to prevent premature engine wear, disabling the start/stop system may be beneficial, according to Bumper. With the increasing costs of new cars and economic constraints prompting drivers to extend the lifespan of their vehicles, taking simple precautions to preserve engine health has become crucial. Therefore, experts suggest reconsidering the use of the start/stop system to maintain the engine’s durability.