Starting and Operating Your
Vehicle
New Vehicle Break-In
Notice:Your vehicle does not need an elaborate
“break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run
if you follow these guidelines:
Do not drive at any one speed — fast or
slow — for the rst 500 miles (805 km). Do not
make full-throttle starts.
Avoid making hard stops for the rst 200 miles
(322 km) or so. During this time your new
brake linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops
with new linings can mean premature wear
and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in
guideline every time you get new brake
linings.
Do not tow a trailer during break-in. SeeTowing
a Trailer on page 4-38for more information.
Ignition Positions
With the key in the ignition, you can turn the switch to
four positions.
The ignition switch is
located on the instrument
panel, to the right of
the steering column.
OFF:This position locks your steering column in a
vehicle with a manual transmission. It is a theft-deterrent
feature. You will only be able to remove your key
when the ignition is turned to OFF.
Notice:If your key seems stuck in OFF and you
can not turn it, be sure you are using the correct
key; if so, is it all the way in? Turn the key only with
your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the
key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then
your vehicle needs service.
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ACC (ACCESSORY):This is the position in which you
can operate your electrical accessories. With the key
in this position, the ignition and automatic transaxle will
unlock.
ON:This is the position to which the switch returns after
you start the engine and release the switch. The switch
stays in ON while the engine is running. But even when
the engine is not running, you can use ON to operate
your electrical accessories and to display some
instrument panel cluster messages and warning lights.
START:This position starts the engine. When the
engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will
return to ON for normal driving.
While the engine is not running, ACC and ON allow you
to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio.
A warning chime will sound if you open the driver’s door
while the ignition is in OFF or ACC and the key is in
the ignition.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
With Retained Accessory Power (RAP), your power
windows, audio system and sunroof (option) will
continue to work for up to 10 minutes after the ignition is
turned to OFF and none of the doors is opened.
Starting Your Engine
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Your engine won’t start in any other position — that’s a
safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving,
use NEUTRAL (N) only.
Notice:Shifting into PARK (P) with the vehicle
moving could damage the transaxle. Shift into
PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
Starting Your 3400 V6 Engine
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your
ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let
go of the key. The idle speed will go down as
your engine warms up.
Notice:Holding your key in START for longer than
15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to
be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat
can damage your starter motor. Wait about 15
seconds between each try to help avoid draining
your battery or damaging your starter.
2. If the engine doesn’t start in 10 seconds, push the
accelerator pedal about one-quarter of the way
down while you turn the key to START. Do this until
the engine starts. As soon as it does, let go of
the key.
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