How Misusing Stop-Start Systems Can Drain Your Tank

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Concerns are rising over the way motorists use stop-start technology in modern vehicles, with experts warning that improper habits could lead to higher fuel consumption at a time when families are already feeling the pinch from the Cost of Living crisis.

Drivers are being urged to reconsider their routines behind the wheel to make the most of fuel-saving features and reduce unnecessary expenses.

John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco.com, highlighted, “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.” He further advised that owners of newer models should embrace stop-start systems, saying, “Those with new models, however, should definitely consider making the most of their stop-start systems to help reduce fuel consumption.”

The RAC has weighed in with practical advice, stating, “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.” This guidance is supported by research from the Society of Automotive Engineers, which found that start-stop systems can improve fuel economy by between 7 and 26 percent, especially in city driving where frequent stops are common.

Modern vehicles equipped with automatic stop-start technology can shut off the engine when stationary and restart it as soon as the accelerator is pressed, a feature that has become standard in many new cars due to its effectiveness in saving fuel and reducing emissions.

The RAC cautions against disabling this feature, stating, “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 those driving older vehicles without stop-start systems, the RAC suggests, “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.”

They also note that older vehicles and those with aging batteries may struggle with frequent restarting, which can lead to increased wear and higher fuel usage.

The stop-start technology is not only about fuel savings-studies show it can cut fuel consumption by up to 8 percent in urban driving and significantly reduce carbon emissions, making it a key tool in the automotive industry’s push for cleaner, more efficient vehicles. Enhanced batteries such as EFB and AGM types are now common in cars with these systems, ensuring reliable performance and supporting energy recovery features like regenerative braking.

The RAC reassures drivers that stop-start systems are designed to keep the battery charged even in heavy traffic, and switching off the engine during stops should not negatively impact fuel economy. However, they emphasize that fuel usage during starting varies by vehicle age and model, with older cars generally using more fuel and sometimes requiring the accelerator to start.

If a vehicle can start without pressing the accelerator, it is best to avoid using it, as this can further minimize fuel consumption.