Ignition Positions
With the key in the
ignition, you can turn it
to four different
positions.
A (OFF):This is the only position in which you
can remove the key. This position locks the ignition
and transmission.
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 all the
way in. If none of this works, then your vehicle
needs service.B (ACCESSORY):This position allows you to use
things like the radio and the windshield wipers
while the engine is off. This position will also allow
you to turn off the engine. Use ACCESSORY if
you must have your vehicle in motion while
the engine is off, for example, if your vehicle is
being pushed or towed.
C (ON):This is the position that the switch
returns to after you start your engine and release
the key. The switch stays in ON when the
engine is running. But even when the engine is
not running, you can use ON to operate your
electrical power accessories, and to display some
instrument panel warning lights.
The battery could be drained if you leave the key
in the ACCESSORY or ON position with the
engine off. You may not be able to start your
vehicle if the battery is allowed to drain for
an extended period of time.
D (START):This position starts the engine. When
the engine starts, release the key. The ignition
switch will return to ON for normal driving.
124
ProCarManuals.com
Starting the Engine
Place the transmission in the proper gear.
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N). Your engine will not start in
any other position – this is a safety feature. To
restart when you are already moving, use
NEUTRAL (N) only.
Notice:Do not try to shift to PARK (P) if your
vehicle is moving. If you do, you could
damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P)
only when your vehicle is stopped.
Starting Procedure
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 your engine gets warm. Do not
race the engine immediately after starting it.
Operate the engine and transmission gently to
allow the oil to warm up and lubricate all
moving parts.Your vehicle has a Computer-Controlled
Cranking System. This feature assists
in starting the engine and protects
components. If the ignition key is turned to the
START position, and then released when
the engine begins cranking, the engine
will continue cranking for a few seconds or
until the vehicle starts. If the engine does not
start and the key is held in START for
many seconds, cranking will be stopped after
15 seconds to prevent cranking motor
damage. To prevent gear damage, this system
also prevents cranking if the engine is
already running. Engine cranking can be
stopped by turning the ignition switch to the
ACCESSORY or OFF position.
Notice:Cranking the engine for long periods
of time, by returning the key to the START
position immediately after cranking has ended,
can overheat and damage the cranking
motor, and drain the battery. Wait at least
15 seconds between each try, to let the
cranking motor cool down.
126
ProCarManuals.com