The eco start/stop feature, designed to save fuel and reduce emissions, automatically shuts off your engine when your car comes to a complete stop and restarts it when you release the brake. While beneficial for the environment, many drivers find this feature annoying and prefer to disable it. Unfortunately, there isn’t a universal solution to permanently disable eco start stop as it varies depending on the car make and model. Some vehicles offer a button to deactivate the system temporarily for the current drive cycle, while others may require more involved methods. Let’s delve into how the system works and explore potential solutions.
The core components of the eco start/stop system include a modified starter motor, a crankshaft Hall sensor, and an additional electric transmission oil pump. The crankshaft sensor determines the optimal cylinder position for restarting, allowing for quick and smooth engine restarts. The electric oil pump pre-pressurizes the automatic transmission, ensuring a seamless transition when resuming driving. The starter motor is built to handle a significantly higher number of starts compared to traditional starters, theoretically lasting the vehicle’s lifespan even with frequent use in urban driving conditions.
According to Daimler, the manufacturer claims the starter can handle eight times more start cycles than a conventional starter. This claim aims to address concerns about premature starter wear due to the increased starting frequency. However, long-term real-world data is needed to validate this claim fully. The durability of the system under continuous urban driving conditions with frequent starts and stops remains to be seen. Some drivers express concerns about being “beta testers” for this relatively new technology.
While a permanent solution through a manufacturer-provided setting might not always be available, exploring vehicle-specific forums and online resources can provide valuable insights. Potential solutions could involve aftermarket devices or software modifications that interact with the car’s computer system. However, it’s crucial to consult with qualified automotive professionals before implementing any modifications that could potentially affect the vehicle’s warranty or performance.
