Ignition Positions

The ignition switch has four different positions.

The ignition switch has four different positions.

Notice: Using a tool to force the key to turn in the ignition could cause damage to the switch or break the key. Use the correct key, make sure it is all the way in, and turn it only with your hand.

If the key cannot be turned by hand, see your dealer.

The key must be fully extended to start the vehicle.

To shift out of P (Park), turn the ignition to ON/RUN and apply the brake pedal.

A (STOPPING THE ENGINE/ LOCK/OFF): When the vehicle is stopped, turn the ignition switch to LOCK/OFF to turn the engine off.

Retained Accessory Power (RAP) will remain active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP)  for more information.

This is the only position from which the key can be removed. This locks the steering wheel, ignition, and automatic transmission.

Do not turn the engine off when the vehicle is moving. This will cause a loss of power assist in the brake and steering systems and disable the airbags.

In an emergency, if the vehicle must be shut off while driving:

1. Brake using a firm and steady pressure. Do not pump the brakes repeatedly. This may deplete power assist, requiring increased brake pedal force.
2. Shift the vehicle to neutral. This can be done while the vehicle is moving. After shifting to neutral, firmly apply the brakes and steer the vehicle to a safe location.
3. Come to a complete stop. Shift to P (Park) with an automatic transmission, or neutral with a manual transmission. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
4. Set the parking brake. See Parking Brake .

Turning off the vehicle while moving may cause loss of power assist in the brake and steering systems and disable the airbags. WARNING
Turning off the vehicle while moving may cause loss of power assist in the brake and steering systems and disable the airbags.

While driving, only shut the vehicle off in an emergency.

5. If the vehicle must be shut off while driving, turn the ignition to ACC/ACCESSORY.

The ignition switch can bind in the LOCK/OFF position with the wheels turned off center. If this happens, move the steering wheel from right to left while turning the key to ACC/ ACCESSORY. If this does not work, then the vehicle needs service.

B (ACC/ACCESSORY): This position unlocks the steering wheel.

Some accessories can be used in this position.

C (ON/RUN): The ignition switch stays in this position when the engine is running. This position can be used to operate the electrical accessories, as well as to display some warning and indicator lights.

The battery could be drained if the key is left in the ON/RUN position with the engine off. The vehicle might not start 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/RUN for normal driving.

    See also:

    Electrical System Overload
    The vehicle has fuses and circuit breakers to protect against an electrical system overload. When the current electrical load is too heavy, the circuit breaker opens and closes, protecting the circui ...

    When to Add Engine Oil
    If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, add 1 L (1 qt) of the recommended oil and then recheck the level. See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in this section ...

    Additional Required Services
    The following services should be performed at the first maintenance service (I or II) after the indicated miles (kilometers) shown for each item. Additional Required Services Additional Require ...