Millions of drivers with 'stop start' technology in car warned over risks (2025)

Motorists are being told to be aware of how the button affects your fuel consumption.

Millions of drivers who have a 'stop start' button in their cars have been warned over the risks. Motorists are being told the modern technology could actually rinsing their fuel tanks and worsening their consumption.

Earlier this month new car tax rates came into effect meaning drivers are now facing significant price increases. A new standard road tax rate, new taxes for electric vehicles (EVs), tax rises for low-emission vehicles and doubling first-year rates for higher polluting new cars were introduced.

These changes have had a huge impact on drivers finances, with an expert now urging motorists to make habit changes to help save some cash, reports Birmingham Live.

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.

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"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."