Does anyone else love the auto-off feature?

I know this might not be popular here, but I actually enjoy it. I hadn’t experienced it before buying the Bronco, and I don’t plan to disable it. For me, when the engine turns off, it’s like everything quiets down for a second, and I get this small moment of peace. Where I live, road rage is pretty common, and it’s stressful. But when the auto-off kicks in, I feel like I can breathe for a bit, just a small escape.

My issue with it is the delay before the car starts moving again and the potential strain it puts on the battery and starter. Glad you enjoy it, though! I just wish the default setting was OFF for those of us who don’t like it.

@Bay
Totally get that. The delay bugs me too, and I’ve heard similar concerns about the battery. But I get why the person who posted this enjoys their quiet moment—it sounds refreshing.

@Bay
From what I’ve read, the starter isn’t actually used. The engine stops at a point where compression can reignite it, and the battery gets regular charging cycles. So maybe it’s not as bad as it seems?

@Weston
Interesting! My dad, who worked on cars and machinery for years, told me the opposite. I’ve also seen videos saying it adds wear to parts, but I guess opinions differ.

@Weston
I got a notification recently about servicing the charge system (50k miles), and I’ve mostly had the auto-off feature on. Makes me think it’s not ideal to keep using it.

@Bay
I had it on a Rav4 and never noticed any issues. For the delay, I just try to time lights better so it doesn’t bother me as much.

@Bay
If I’m turning and need to move quickly, it’s annoying. I turn it off right away—it’s become part of my routine, like buckling up.

Paden said:
@Bay
If I’m turning and need to move quickly, it’s annoying. I turn it off right away—it’s become part of my routine, like buckling up.

I just realized Sport mode automatically disables the auto-off. Game changer for me!

@Bay
Haha, took me months to notice that too!

@Bay
I avoid the delay by easing off the brake slightly before I need to move. It works sometimes, but it’s tricky to get the timing right.

I’m with you. The silence is amazing.

If you don’t stop often, it might be fine, but it’s extra wear on the car if you do. Also, it could be a safety concern if you need to move quickly.

I’ve had two Fords with this feature, and I don’t mind it at all.

I’d like it more if it waited a couple of seconds after stopping. Right now, it even kicks in during quick stop signs, which feels unsafe in busy areas.

Parker said:
I’d like it more if it waited a couple of seconds after stopping. Right now, it even kicks in during quick stop signs, which feels unsafe in busy areas.

If you press lightly on the brake pedal, it won’t engage. I do this all the time at the 4-way stop near my house.

Parker said:
I’d like it more if it waited a couple of seconds after stopping. Right now, it even kicks in during quick stop signs, which feels unsafe in busy areas.

You must not live in California—people rarely stop long enough for it to activate!

Same here! I hate the sound of blower motors, so it’s nice to get a break at red lights.

It’s not so peaceful when it’s 100 degrees out, and the AC turns off at every red light. Drives me nuts.

Orion said:
It’s not so peaceful when it’s 100 degrees out, and the AC turns off at every red light. Drives me nuts.

Yeah, that’s definitely a downside. Still, the quiet moments are a nice surprise for me.