UPDATE: |UK motorists warned ‘don’t switch it off’ over feature found in most modern cars News

This habit could be costing you in the long run

A warning has been issued to drivers over Stop-Start technology which is found in most modern cars.

Also known as Auto Start-Stop, the clever function automatically switches off the engine when the car comes to a complete stop (like at a red light) and restarts it smoothly when the driver is ready to move.

This feature is designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, especially during city driving where there are frequent stops and start.

Most cars with this system installed offers motorists the option of temporarily disabling it, a course of action many take because they find the function annoying or disruptive.

Birmingham Live reports that motorists are at risk of rinsing their fuel tanks and worsening their consumption by switching off the Stop-Start feature.

Considering the country remains in the midst of a cost of living crisis, drivers are being urged to change bad habits that are impacting their bank account.

John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco.com, said: “Some common bad habits that cause drivers to waste more fuel than they realise include unnecessary engine revs, harsh acceleration, and idling in traffic with the engine running.

“If you have an older car you’ll want to avoid frequently restarting your engine in brief stops. Those with new models, however, should definitely consider making the most of their stop-start systems to help reduce fuel consumption.”

The RAC advises: “Try to consider how long you are going to be stationary in traffic. The RAC recommends that motorists turn off their engines if they don’t think they’ll move for around two minutes.

“Most modern vehicles have ‘stop-start’ systems fitted that automatically switch off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restart it as soon as the accelerator is pressed.

“Manufacturers allow this feature to be manually switched off, but we urge motorists not to do this. There is no risk to your vehicle in allowing this feature to be left on.

“For vehicles without ‘stop-start’ it’s fine to turn off your engine, but you should try to avoid doing this repeatedly in a short space of time.

“In addition, older vehicles (around eight years old) and vehicles with older batteries (around five years old) may struggle if started too often in a short space of time.”

It adds: “With stop-start systems, don’t worry about the battery not getting charged while the engine is off – the stop-start system will automatically restart the engine to ensure the battery is kept fully charged, even in stationary traffic.

“Switching off your engine in traffic should not adversely affect your fuel economy. However, fuel usage from starting does vary from model to model. Generally, older vehicles – 10 years or older – will use more fuel when starting and may require some accelerator use which will inevitably use some fuel. If a vehicle will start without any use of the accelerator, then try not to use it.”