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HomeCarsThe secret button in your car to activate systematically to avoid breakdowns

The secret button in your car to activate systematically to avoid breakdowns

A seasoned British mechanic reveals a simple but effective move to extend the life of your vehicle. Discover this little-known button that could save you costly repairs.

Expert advice to preserve your engine

Scotty Kilmer, a mechanic with 55 years of experience, shares a little-known tip to reduce wear on your engine:

  • The majority of engine wear occurs during startup
  • Oil must be pumped from the bottom to the top of the engine each time it is started
  • Frequent starting and stopping increases this wear
  • The Start-Stop system in question

    The mechanic points to the Start-Stop system, a function which:

    Automatically shuts down the engine when stopped to save fuel and reduce emissionsRestarts the engine as soon as necessary, placing heavy demands on the battery and mechanical components

    How to deactivate Start-Stop?

    Although it is impossible to completely disable this feature for legal reasons, Kilmer recommends:

  • Get into the habit of pressing the Start-Stop deactivation button each time you start
  • This button is generally represented by the letter โ€œAโ€ surrounded by a circle
  • The advantages of temporary deactivation

    By deactivating Start-Stop on each journey, you:

    Reduce stress on the engine and battery Limit wear on components linked to frequent starts Potentially extend the life of your vehicle

    A simple gesture with significant potential benefits

    Although the Start-Stop system was designed to improve fuel efficiency, its impact on engine longevity is debated. By adopting this simple habit, you could:

  • Reduce the risk of premature breakdowns
  • Save on long-term maintenance costs
  • Preserve the performance of your vehicle over time
  • This advice from Scotty Kilmer reminds us of the importance of knowing the features of your vehicle. Although the Start-Stop system has benefits in terms of fuel economy and reduced emissions, deactivating it occasionally could prove beneficial to the longevity of your engine. Do not hesitate to consult your vehicle manual or a professional for more information on this feature and its impact on your specific model.

    The secret button in your car to activate systematically to avoid breakdowns

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