Car stop-start systems may go away thanks to Trump deregulation

Published February 12, 2026 4:53pm ET



Vehicle stop-start features, which automatically turn off engines at red lights, could soon become less prevalent because of the Trump administration’s announced repeal of the government finding underlying many Environmental Protection Agency emissions rules.

The stop-start feature, also known as the idle stop system, in cars is a fuel-saving function that turns off the engine when the car comes to a complete stop and then turns back on when the brake pedal or gas pedal is pressed. The Trump administration has argued that the feature is disliked by many consumers and has not reduced emissions.

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