The TRUTH About Auto Stop-Start System (Nobody Talks About)

Learn why auto start-stop systems in modern vehicles are causing serious concerns among professional mechanics and vehicle owners. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the hidden costs and potential damage these fuel-saving features can inflict on your engine, starter, and battery.

A start-stop system is a feature in modern cars that automatically shuts off your engine when you're fully stopped - like at a red light or in traffic - and then fires it back up when you're ready to move. Think of it like your car taking a quick power nap to save gas whenever you're not moving.

The engine turns off when you hold the brake, and springs back to life when you let off the brake or hit the gas. It's supposed to help with fuel economy and emissions, especially in city driving where you do a lot of stopping and starting. To handle all this starting and stopping, these cars need beefier starters and special batteries, which is where some of the problems start coming in.

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Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and should not replace professional advice. As an experienced mechanic, I aim to provide helpful insights, but I'm not liable for any damage or issues arising from the application of this information. Always consult a qualified mechanic for specific vehicle needs. Viewer discretion and responsibility are advised

[kentd]

Thank you. Shutting this feature off is the first thing I do in cars with it installed.

[nicksmpsn]

As soon as I start the engine, I turn the auto stop off. It's as routine as putting my seatbelt on.

[raymondgrose]

I have an “Auto Stop Eliminator” in my Subaru. It took all of 30 seconds to install and saves me the trouble of turning the Auto Stop off each time I start my car. Love it.

[randyniemi]

I always thought stop-start technology was a bad idea. Thank you for confirming it.

[jamesslick]

I H A T E this "feature" with an nearly unreasonable passion! Thanks for conveying WHY it's stupid. Earned a sub!

[RedEyeC]

Here in SWNM and southern AZ my Start / Stop (which I hate) does not turn off on the hot days between May and October - you wouldn't even know the car (Buick Envista) had the function. But in the winter I am constantly turning this S/S off every time I start the motor. It is a RIDICULOUS function!

[joeyjoseph]

Agree is really a feature that can potentially cause more issues than it solves....I always switch it off on my BMW the moment I start

[mv]

I used the stop start system on my European car and had to replace the engine as the crankshaft piston bearing disintegrated from oil starvation. Exactly as said in the video. I learned the hard way.

[rney]

I was just thinking about this today. Literally all of it. To save gas and killing your battery, engines, starters etc. I don’t think it’s worth it in 10-15 years

[donaldweishaupt]

Automotive dealer tech here, the system was never intended to SAVE fuel. Its whole concept according to our training was to reduce Carbon emissions. I don't think manufactures like it but had to install it to appease the EPA. The factory trainer estimates a fuel saving of just a few gallons per year.

[robertpearson]

I’ve gotten into the habit of turning it off every time I start my vehicle up. If I forget, the first time it auto stops reminds me.

[Ivan-crvc]

In "79" we drove all around "western Europe" for the summer. (leased car, much cheaper) At the time Switzerland had a law in place that you turned off your car at stoplights for smog control. Some time later it turned out that smog was increasing due to the fact cars take an extra small amount of fuel to restart.

[stevedawson]

I turn it off every time I start the vehicle. It the first button I press after starting the vehicle!! It's a stupid idea!!

[phrewilly]

Shutting the stupid thing off is the first thing I do when I start the car!

[SurreyZX]

I knew it! I had a feeling about oil pressure being a problem, especially keeping the turbo cooled. Thank you for proving i'm not crazy

[larryjohns]

What i have determined about my late model Honda Suv. In summer put the AC to max cool setting and the stop start never cuts the engine off. When setting at a light, very lightly press the brake and engine keeps running. If you know you want the engine to stop, press the brake firmly. Then when you want to start the engine - lighten up on the brake pedal.

[floridaactor]

I have a 2020 Honda CR-V with that technology. When I start the car, I do two things. I fasten my seatbelt and turn off the start/stop thingy. My car is 4.5 years old with the original battery that is still in great shape after 39K miles. The battery was tested. yesterday when I had routine maintenance done at my Honda dealer.

[hansrietveld]

After 9.5 years and 250, 000 kms the engine oil still doesn't need to be topped up between services on my Mazda 3. And the car still has its original starter motor. And I have never switched off the auto start stop.

[tonycharlton]

Ford, 107000 miles. Original battery, starts every time with absolutely no lag at all, turbo is cooled for a few seconds by water to protect it. In my first identical Ford model I turned the stop/start off and had electrical issues. So I’m not disputing any of your video but I will leave mine on.

[colingreen]

I press the disable button every time I get in the car. It is dangerous when wanting to pull out into traffic and the cost of a battery for cars fitted with this system is outrageous.