Some auto manufacturers offer the option of an eco mode for fuel-saving. However, the eco feature is unique and novel.
That is why most car owners are unfamiliar with it. Are you among those? Do you often ask yourself: What does eco mean on a car? Well, congratulations! You are not alone.
The Eco or Econ feature—as some car manufacturers call it—helps car owners reduce oil consumption.
As you turn on the Eco feature, your car becomes slower and “unresponsive.” This unresponsiveness has two prominent reasons: Your car consumes no to less fuel.
Secondly, as the engine slows down, so do the brake paddles and calipers. Consequently, you feel that your car is unresponsive.
Nevertheless, according to automakers, eco features on cars essentially lessen the engine’s speed. In turn, the vehicle consumes less fuel and moves steadily.
Is the Eco Feature Dangerous?
Once you are clear about the fundamental question, “What Does an Eco Mean on a Car?” a subsequent question arises: Is the Eco feature dangerous? Well, the good news is that it is not.
It is one of the prominent features you enable on your call to enhance fuel efficiency. Essentially, as you drive at a high speed, your car consumes gas and fuel faster.
On the other hand, enabling eco mode slows your car’s speed, leading to less fuel consumption.
Automakers like Honda and Nissan recommend enabling the eco mode to sustain the car’s overall health and get assistance with fuel efficiency.
So, the next time you wonder, “What does eco mean on a car?” think about your car’s fuel consumption.
You can enable eco mode if you drive the latest model, either Honda, Kia, Ford, Lexus, Hyundai, or Chevrolet.
However, most car manufacturers offer other driver assistance features like Sport and Normal modes.
Essentially, these features enhance transmission, suspension, and steering adjustment.
Enabling the eco mode along with these features is a good idea. Together, they can assist you with low fuel consumption and provide you with a worthwhile driving experience.
How Much of Fuel Can You Save With the Eco Mode Enabled?
The eco mode’s fuel efficiency varies based on your car. For example, if you turn on the eco mode on your Ford, you can save up to 12% of fuel consumption.
On the other hand, if you enable eco mode on your Hyundai, you can improve fuel efficiency by up to 7%.
The brands set these percentages, which may vary based on the overall condition of your car.
However, mentioning that the eco mode should be accompanied by slow and careful driving is pertinent. Otherwise, the feature’s efficiency can be reduced.
For instance, if you attempt to drive ruthlessly, jackrabbit starts, or peddle the brakes quite often, you may not achieve fuel efficiency in the eco mode.
Similarly, the flip side is also true. You can achieve the features of eco mode with steady and careful driving – even if your car doesn’t have the eco feature.
A light foot on the gas pedal and less acceleration can assist the engine in consuming less fuel.
Should You Enable the Eco Feature on Your Car?
Yes. If your car has the eco—or econ, as Honda calls it—option, you should enable it to lessen your car’s fuel consumption.
Of course, gas and fuel prices are reaching their peak, so enhancing your car’s fuel efficiency is worthwhile.
You may find the eco button in the settings panel depending on your car. The feature has a green sign that turns on once eco mode is enabled.
If you still can’t find the eco feature, you should contact the manufacturer for further assistance.