Stop-start feature irritating but worthwhile

But I suspect they include the quality of the engine mounts, the amount of insulation between the passenger compartment and the engine bay, and the mass of the engine itself, with smaller engines being easier to make subtle.

That leads us to the next thing that’s different from car to car. I’d say most cars require you to turn off the automatic stop-start each time you drive the car. A few will remember your preference the next time you drive, but that’s a minority.

I’m guessing that the car’s mileage rating would be dinged if an owner could easily, and permanently, turn off the start-stop. So the manufacturer wants to discourage that. And besides, the benefits are meaningful. Not just for you, but for everyone breathing nearby.

It’s a little too early to say with certainty what, if any, downsides there are — other than the shudder, if that bothers you. Carmakers have mostly beefed up their starting systems to accommodate more-frequent and faster starts. And some are working on better bearing technology to reduce the wear and tear the crankshaft bearings receive during startup. We’ll know, over time, whether there are unforeseen consequences.

But if you do a fair amount of city driving, we know it’s saving you money on gas and improving the air we breathe. So if you can stand it, I’d say use it.

And if you can’t stand it, then you’ll just have to add a new item to your morning routine, Bill: Get in the car, turn the key, put it in gear, turn off the stop-start and then back over the rosebushes.