Q: I recently purchased a 2020 Chrysler Pacifica with 64,000 miles on it. It's my first vehicle with the automatic stop-start feature that's supposed to save on fuel. Initially I noticed it didn't always engage when stopped, and the owner's manual helped me understand that it only does it when the brake is fully depressed. But I'm always asking myself: Is this really worth it? When the engine stops for only a couple seconds, like in stop-and-go-traffic, doesn't the fuel used in the re-start offset any fuel saved during the brief stop? And won't the starter (or other components?) need to be replaced sooner than if I turn this feature off altogether?
T.O, Emmaus, Pennsylvania
A: Although marginal, the stop-start feature does save some fuel and reduce emissions. An improved starter and deep cycle battery handle the job. Additionally, the engine starts in less than one revolution. If you read your manual further, you may find that several other conditions may override the function. I recently rented a Porsche while my pickup truck was in the body shop and did not care for the stop-start feature so I killed it by pressing the “A” button on the console. You can do the same by pressing the “A” switch near the radio controls.
