During normal operation, the security light will go off
approximately five seconds after the key is turned
to RUN following an engine start.
If the engine stalls and the security light flashes, wait
until the light stops flashing before trying to restart
the engine. Remember to release the key from START
as soon as the engine starts.
If the engine is running and the security light comes on,
you will be able to restart the engine if you turn the
engine off. However, your Passlock
®system is
not working properly and must be serviced by your
retailer. Your vehicle is not protected by Passlock
®at
this time. You may also want to check the fuses,
seeFuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-83. See your
retailer for service. Also, seeRoadside Assistance
Program on page 7-5for more information.
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 4-40for more information.
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Ignition Positions
With the key in the ignition
switch, you can turn the
switch to four positions.
OFF:This is the only position from which you can
remove the key.
Notice:Using a tool to force the key from the
ignition switch could cause damage or break the
key. Use the correct key and turn the key only with
your hand. Make sure the key is in all the way. If
none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.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. Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed
or towed.
RUN:This is the position for driving to which the switch
returns after you start the engine and release the
switch. The switch stays in RUN when the engine is
running. But even when the engine is not running, you
can use RUN 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 RUN for normal driving.
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Starting Your Engine
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
The engine will not start in any other position — that is
a safety feature. To restart when you are 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.
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the
ignition key to START. When the engine starts,
let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as the
engine gets warm.
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 does not start within 10 seconds, hold
your key in START for about 10 seconds at a time
until the engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds
between each try.When your engine has run for about 10 seconds to
warm up, your vehicle is ready to be driven. Do not
race your engine when it is cold.
If the weather is below freezing (32°F or 0°C), let
the engine run for a few minutes to warm up.
3. If your engine still will not start, or starts but then
stops, it could be flooded with too much gasoline.
Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the
floor and holding it there as you hold the key in
START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts
briefly but then stops again, do the same thing.
This time keep the pedal down for five or six
seconds to clear the extra gasoline from the engine.
After waiting about 15 seconds, repeat the normal
starting procedure.
Notice:Your engine is designed to work with the
electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical
parts or accessories, you could change the way the
engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment,
check with your dealer. If you do not, your engine
might not perform properly.
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Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting
the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift
lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular
brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the
ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P),
ease pressure on the shift lever — push the shift lever all
the way into PARK (P) and also release the shift lever
button as you maintain brake application. Then move the
shift lever into the gear you wish. Press the shift lever
button before moving the shift lever. SeeShifting Out of
Park (P) on page 2-24.
REVERSE (R):Use this gear to back up.
Notice:Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle
is moving forward could damage the transaxle.
The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is
stopped.
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow,
ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, seeIf
You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow on
page 4-30.NEUTRAL (N):In this position, your engine does not
connect with the wheels. To restart when you are
already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use
NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.
{CAUTION:
Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is
running at high speed is dangerous. Unless
your foot is rmly on the brake pedal, your
vehicle could move very rapidly. You could
lose control and hit people or objects. Do not
shift into a drive gear while your engine is
running at high speed.
Notice:Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N)
with the engine racing may damage the transaxle.
The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Be sure the engine is not racing when shifting
your vehicle.
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Shift Lock Release
If you ever hold the brake pedal down, but still cannot
shift out of PARK (P), try this:
1. Turn the ignition to OFF and remove the key.
2. Carefully pry the shift lock override cover from the
floor shift console.3. Lift up and forward to
disengage.
4. While maintaining brake application, pull up and
hold the white lever and then move the shift lever
into the desired gear position.
5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as possible.
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