DGT warns of hidden dangers in the Start/Stop button for engines

Remember the days when you had to fiddle around for your keys and maybe even swear a little as you took them out of your pocket? Those days are largely over. Modern cars are usually powered up by a simple tap on the start/stop buttons. It’s slick and convenient. Most of us don’t even give it a second glance.

The interesting part is that the Spanish traffic authority (the DGT) has a huge red flag on this exact button. It’s not a myth. The warning is real—and more people need to hear it.

What is the significance of the Start/Stop buttons?

We tend to take the latest technology for granted. This is especially true in cars. But that little button on your dashboard isn’t just a cool way to start your engine – it can be a real troublemaker if you mess with it at the wrong moment.

Let’s set the scene: You’re zooming down the motorway, maybe singing along to the radio, when—by accident or in a moment of confusion—you press the start/stop button. Perhaps your passenger is fiddling around with the air conditioning, or perhaps your curious child has wandered too far. Whatever the case, you’ll want to keep this button handy. do not Want to push as you move?

What happens when you strike it while moving?

Your car won’t stop gently like it does in movies. Instead, the engine cuts out—bam, just like that. The power steering suddenly disappears and the car’s brakes become unusually stiff. The car can only be controlled by pure muscle power. Even experienced drivers will find it difficult.

What’s the worst part? Most people don’t know that you can shut down your engine while driving. This is not something you hear about very often in showrooms. And with the button right there on the console—sometimes not far from where you’d adjust the temperature or turn up the music—it’s easy to press it without meaning to.

Keep safe: What to Do in a Panic Behind the Wheel

DGT’s message to drivers is simple: Know your car. Be sure to know what the buttons do before you start driving. In a real emergency—let’s say a dog runs into the road, or something falls off the lorry in front—don’t slam on the brakes or jab at random buttons. Try to remain calm and keep both hands on your steering wheel.

If you need to stop, be gentle. Turn on your hazard signals and pull over to a safe location before you think of turning off the engine. Do not hit the start/stop key mid-trip thinking it will help. You’ll make the situation worse.

Although we all enjoy a little modern convenience, sometimes it is best to just let things be. We should all remember the DGT’s warning, even if it sounds a bit dramatic. You can never have enough of your own? press that start/stop button while you’re driving—no matter how curious you get.

Keep yourself safe and give your dashboard another look before you leave the next time. You’ll never know which buttons are more trouble than they’re worth.