🚗 Starting and Stopping Your Car the Wrong Way Can Cause Damage: What to Know

Kokila Chokkanathan
Many car owners underestimate the impact of improper starting or stopping habits on their vehicle’s longevity. Even small mistakes, repeated over time, can lead to engine wear, transmission issues, or costly repairs. Understanding the right way to start and stop a car is essential for smooth operation and long-term maintenance.

🔑 Common Mistakes When Starting Your Car

1. Cranking the Engine Too Long

  • Holding the key in the “start” position for more than 5–10 seconds can overheat the starter motor and drain the battery.
  • Modern cars often prevent prolonged cranking automatically, but older models may not.
2. Starting Without Pressing the Clutch (Manual Transmission)

  • Not pressing the clutch in manual cars can strain the starter motor and transmission.
  • Always press the clutch pedal fully before turning the key.
3. Revving the Engine Immediately

  • Pressing the accelerator aggressively as soon as the engine starts puts stress on engine components.
  • Let the engine idle for a few seconds, especially in cold weather, to circulate oil and stabilize temperature.
4. Turning on High-Load Electrical Accessories Immediately

  • Using air conditioning, heated seats, or infotainment at the exact moment of starting can increase engine load.
  • Start the engine first, let it stabilize, then switch on accessories.
🛑 Common Mistakes When Stopping Your Car

1. Stopping Without Coming to a Complete Halt (Manual Cars)

  • Shutting off the engine while the car is still in gear can damage the transmission and cause the car to jerk or stall.
  • Always put the car in neutral or park before turning off the engine.
2. Revving the Engine Before Stopping

  • Some drivers like to press the accelerator before stopping; this creates unnecessary wear on the engine and clutch.
  • Slow down gradually and avoid sudden acceleration near a stop.
3. Not Allowing Turbo or Engine to Cool Down (Turbo Cars)

  • High-performance or turbocharged cars need a short idle period before switching off to allow oil circulation and cooling.
  • Shutting down immediately after hard driving can damage the turbocharger and engine.
4. Switching Off the Engine While Rolling

  • Turning off the ignition while the car is still moving disables power steering and brake assist in many modern vehicles, creating a safety hazard.
⚙️ Tips for Proper car Starting and Stopping

Manual Cars: press clutch, ensure gear in neutral, then start the engine.

Automatic Cars: Keep the gear in park and foot on the brake while starting.

Avoid High Revs Immediately: Let the engine idle for a few seconds.

Gradual Deceleration: Slow down smoothly before stopping.

Idle for Turbo Cars: Allow 30–60 seconds of idle after long drives or high-speed runs.

Switch Off Accessories After Engine Stabilizes: This reduces load and wear.

🏁 Why Following the Correct Procedure Matters

  • Prolongs Engine Life: Proper start/stop routines ensure oil circulates correctly, reducing friction.
  • Protects Transmission: Especially in manual cars, avoiding gear-related mistakes prevents clutch and gearbox damage.
  • Saves Fuel and Battery Life: Smooth starting reduces unnecessary fuel consumption and battery strain.
  • Enhances Safety: Proper stopping habits prevent stalling in traffic or disabling power brakes unexpectedly.
✅ Summary

Action

Correct Way

Common Mistake

Damage Risk

Starting (Manual)

Clutch pressed, gear in neutral

Engine cranked in gear

Starter motor, transmission

Starting (Auto)

Foot on brake, gear in park

Accelerate immediately

Engine wear, battery drain

Stopping

Gradually decelerate, neutral/park

Turn off in gear, rolling

Transmission, turbo, safety

Turbo Cars

Idle before switch-off

Immediate shutdown

Turbo damage, engine overheating

Final Note

Even experienced drivers sometimes overlook these small but critical routines. Following proper starting and stopping procedures not only protects your car but also enhances safety, reduces repair costs, and ensures a longer, smoother driving experience.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

For more interesting updates click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel

Find Out More:

cars

Related Articles: