Millions Dislike This Fuel-Saving Technology, Leading EPA to Consider Its Removal | Carscoops

      The EPA and consumers wish to eliminate it despite its fuel-saving benefits.

      17 hours ago

      by Stephen Rivers

      The EPA is likely to respond to increasing complaints about auto stop-start technology in vehicles.

      The agency states that millions of Americans find this feature frustrating and bothersome.

      Advocates emphasize its clear success in conserving fuel and the option for easy user deactivation.

      Modern gasoline-powered cars are equipped with various features designed to enhance efficiency, and among these, auto start/stop technology is notable for its straightforwardness and effectiveness. This system conserves millions of gallons of fuel by shutting off the engine when the vehicle is idle and restarting it when needed.

      Despite its efficiency, it has faced criticism from drivers and is now under scrutiny from the Environmental Protection Agency, raising questions about its future.

      As it currently stands, automakers are encouraged to incorporate this technology into their vehicles, receiving credits from the EPA that can lead to higher profits. Until recently, meeting specific fuel economy standards was crucial because it also reduced costs for manufacturers. With the removal of penalties for failing to meet corporate average fuel economy targets, however, the relevance of start/stop technology may be shifting.

      EPA Indicates a Change

      The EPA has already indicated its wish to eliminate the technology. In May, Lee Zeldin, the head of the EPA, referred to it as merely a "climate participation trophy." Recently, his administration informed AutoNews that "stop/start technology is a feature in cars that frustrates millions of Americans. Please stay tuned for more updates on how the EPA plans to tackle this issue."

      It’s clear that many everyday drivers dislike this feature, which is why various methods exist to disable, hack, or completely remove it. Proponents argue that buyers who are dissatisfied with the feature can simply turn it off.

      “Start/stop technology is where your car shuts off at every red light just so companies can have a climate participation trophy. The EPA approved it, and everyone dislikes it, so we’re addressing it,” tweeted Lee Zeldin on May 12, 2025.

      “I think people generally appreciate saving money on fuel, and if not, it can be disabled,” commented Albert Gore, executive director of the Zero Emission Transportation Association. “I’m not sure why it would be necessary to take that option away from individuals.” Perhaps the solution will be to keep the system but set it to default to off instead of on.

      As we noted in previous coverage, auto start/stop technology accomplishes its intended purpose by saving fuel in situations where drivers frequently start and stop their vehicles. Does this imply it is flawless and unobtrusive? No, and it seems that, especially in this aspect of driving culture, most consumers would rather incur higher expenses at the gas station than deal with what is generally viewed as a minor inconvenience during traffic.