1. If the vehicle has the keyless access system, the transmitter must be in the vehicle. Put your foot on the brake pedal and push the START button. When the engine begins cranking, let go of the button.

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.

If the transmitter is not in the vehicle or something is interfering with the transmitter, the Driver Information Center (DIC) will display a message.

See Key and Lock Messages for more information.

If the battery in the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter needs replacing, the DIC will display a message. The vehicle can still be driven. See “Starting the Vehicle with a Low Transmitter Battery” in Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation for more information.

The vehicle has a Computer-Controlled Cranking System. This feature assists in starting the engine and protects components. If the START button is pressed, 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 button is pressed 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 pressing the START button a second time.

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.

2. If the engine does not start after five to 10 seconds, especially in very cold weather (below −18°C or 0°F), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START, or press the START button, for up to a maximum of 15 seconds.

Wait at least 15 seconds between each try, to allow the cranking motor to cool down.

When the engine starts, let go of the key or button, and the accelerator. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.

Do not race the engine immediately after starting it.

Operate the engine and transmission gently until the oil warms up and lubricates all moving parts.