Not too long ago, having a car with an auto start/stop system was considered fancy. Most people barely notice it today—unless the system’s buggy or gets in their way. But here’s the question: does it help you save on gas, or is it just some extra feature that looks good on paper?
Let’s look closer, especially from a Newfoundland and Labrador perspective.
What’s Auto Start/Stop Anyway?
Start/stop systems are designed to shut your engine off when your vehicle’s idling—like when you’re sitting at a red light on Water Street or stuck in the drive-thru at Tims—and then automatically start it back up when you press the gas.
The idea is simple. No sense in burning fuel when you’re not moving. Over time, it can reduce fuel use and reduce emissions.
Consumer Reports and other industry experts have found that these systems can improve fuel efficiency by up to 25%, depending on your driving habits.
Is It Useful in Newfoundland?
You won’t see much benefit if you’re mainly driving on open roads—say, heading out to Bonavista or looping around the Irish Loop. Start/stop systems work best in stop-and-go situations.
But for folks commuting in and around St. John’s, Mount Pearl, or Corner Brook, a lot more stopping is involved. Think traffic lights, school zones, and parking lot crawls. That’s where the fuel savings start to add up.
In fact, a 2023 study from the Society of Automotive Engineers found that auto start/stop systems improved fuel economy by 7% to 26%, depending on the route and conditions. That’s not small potatoes.
Cleaner Air, Little by Little
Even though we don’t have the smog problems of bigger cities, cleaner air benefits everyone. Cutting down on unnecessary engine idling means fewer emissions. And that’s a win whether living in the city or out around the bay.
Not All Cars Are Created Equal
If you’ve driven an older car with one of these systems, you might remember it being jumpy or turning off your A/C when you stopped. Some makes and models didn’t handle it well. A used Chevy Cruze might frustrate you, while a Toyota hybrid would feel almost seamless.
Newer models use improved tech like AGM batteries or 48-volt mild-hybrid systems to make everything smoother and more reliable. So, if you’ve been burned by clunky versions in the past, things have changed.
What About Wear and Tear?
Some worry that turning the engine off and on more often will wear out the battery or starter. But most manufacturers have accounted for that. These systems are built with durability in mind. Toyota has been using them for over a decade and has a solid reputation for reliability.
Is It Worth It?
That depends on how you drive. The benefits are small if your daily routine involves cruising on the TCH. But navigating traffic, construction zones, or school pickups could save you a fair bit over time if you’re often in town.
Even a 15% improvement in fuel efficiency can make a big difference over the life of your vehicle.
And if your current system is a pain, you can usually switch it off when you start the car. Or look into a more refined model, like a used Toyota or Lexus hybrid. They’re known for being smooth, reliable, and budget-friendly in the long run.
Don’t Forget About Auto Insurance
Whether your car has start/stop tech or not, having the right auto insurance matters just as much. At Wedgwood, we help drivers across Newfoundland and Labrador find coverage that fits their lifestyle—whether you’re commuting through downtown St. John’s, navigating the Outer Ring, or road-tripping around the bay. From newer vehicles with the latest features to reliable older models, we’ll walk you through your options and make sure you’re fully protected with a policy that makes sense for you.
The Bottom Line
Auto start/stop may not be for everyone, especially in rural areas. But for many drivers in Newfoundland and Labrador, it’s a helpful feature that reduces fuel use and lowers emissions. The tech has improved a lot, and in the right situations, it can be a smart way to save money and do your part for cleaner air.
Not bad for a little button that does all the work for you while you’re waiting for the light to turn green.
About Wedgwood Insurance
Wedgwood Insurance has offices in St. John’s & Corner Brook and is Newfoundland & Labrador’s largest independent insurance broker. We provide straightforward home, auto & business insurance advice.
With over 315 Google My Business reviews, experience the Wedgwood difference with expert advice from our dedicated team. We ensure that every client has the coverage that best suits their needs through upfront complimentary consultations and midterm reviews.
Contact Us
