The wear on a car engine can be influenced by various factors, but when it comes to running continuously versus repeatedly starting and stopping, here's what the research suggests:
- **Continuous Running**: When a car engine is running continuously, it maintains a consistent operating temperature, which can be beneficial for engine components. The oil circulates properly, reducing friction and wear on moving parts.
- **Repeated Start/Stop**: Modern cars are often equipped with Auto Start-Stop technology, which is designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions during idle times, such as at traffic lights or in heavy traffic. This technology automatically shuts off the engine when the car comes to a stop and restarts it when the accelerator is pressed. There is no proof that this technology wears out the starter motor or other engine parts faster than usual¹. In fact, engines are designed to handle the start-stop action well, with upgraded components like enhanced starter motors and batteries built for frequent starts and stops². The biggest form of wear on your car engine is starting it when it's cold, not when it's already warmed up from recent operation¹.
Therefore, the **Auto Start-Stop technology** does not significantly increase wear compared to continuous running, especially since modern vehicles are made to withstand the effects of this technology¹². It's also worth noting that using high-quality oils and maintaining your vehicle according to the manufacturer's recommendations can help minimize engine wear overall.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 23/04/2024
(1) What Is Auto Stop-Start Technology and Is It Bad For The Engine?. https://mechanicbase.com/electric/does-auto-start-stop-wear-out-engine-components/.
(2) Is Auto Start-Stop Bad For Your Engine? Debunking Myths. https://mycarvoice.com/news/is-auto-start-stop-bad-for-your-engine/.
(3) Myth-busting: Does stop-start damage your engine?. https://practicalmotoring.com.au/car-advice/myth-busting-stop-start-damage-engine/.
(4) Five Things You Need To Know About Stop/Start Systems - Green Car Reports. https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1066686_five-things-you-need-to-know-about-stop-start-systems.