Kia Picanto: Key positions / Ignition switch position. Starting the engine

Ignition switch position

LOCK (1)

The steering wheel locks in this position to help protect the vehicle against theft. The ignition key can be removed only when the switch is in LOCK. After parking your Kia Picanto, opening the driver’s door with the key still inserted in the LOCK or ACC position triggers a warning chime. The chime reminds you to remove the key and stops once the key is taken out.

ACC (Accessory) (2)

In the ACC position, the steering wheel is unlocked and electrical accessories can be operated.

NOTE

If the key is difficult to turn to ACC, move the steering wheel gently to the right and left while turning the key. This releases tension on the steering lock and allows the ignition switch to turn.

ON (3)

The ON position allows you to check the warning lights before starting the engine. After the engine starts, this is the normal ignition position used while driving.

Do not leave the ignition switch in ON with the engine stopped. Keeping the electrical systems powered without the engine running can discharge the battery.

START (4)

Turn the ignition switch to START to crank the engine. Cranking continues while you hold the key in this position. When you release it, the key returns to ON. The brake warning light can also be checked with the switch in the START position.

WARNING

Ignition switch

• Never turn the ignition switch to LOCK or ACC while the vehicle is moving. Doing so can result in a loss of directional control and braking function, potentially causing an accident.

• The anti-theft steering column lock does not replace the parking brake. Before leaving the driver’s seat, select 1st gear for a manual transmission, N (Neutral) for an automated manual transmission, or P (Park) for an automatic transmission. Fully apply the parking brake and switch off the engine. Failure to take these precautions may allow the vehicle to move suddenly and unexpectedly.

• Never reach through the steering wheel to operate the ignition switch or any other control while the vehicle is moving. Placing your hand or arm through the wheel can interfere with steering and cause a loss of control, an accident, serious injury or death.

• Keep loose or movable objects away from the driver’s seat. They may shift while driving, interfere with the driver’s actions and lead to an accident.

Starting the engine

WARNING

• Wear suitable footwear whenever operating your Kia Picanto. High heels, ski boots and other unsuitable shoes may prevent you from controlling the brake, accelerator or clutch pedal properly.

• Do not start the vehicle with the accelerator pedal depressed. The vehicle may move unexpectedly and cause an accident.

• Wait until the engine speed has returned to its normal level before releasing the brake pedal. Releasing the brake while engine rpm is high may cause the vehicle to move suddenly.

NOTE

Kick down mechanism (if equipped)

If the accelerator pedal has a kick down mechanism, increased pedal resistance helps prevent unintentional full-throttle operation. Pressing the pedal beyond approximately 80% of its travel can allow full throttle, after which the pedal becomes easier to depress. This change in resistance is a normal operating characteristic and does not indicate a malfunction.

Starting the petrol engine

1. Make sure the parking brake is firmly applied before attempting to start the engine.

2. Manual Transmission: Fully depress the clutch pedal and move the gear lever to Neutral. Keep both the clutch and brake pedals depressed while turning the ignition switch to the starting position.

   Automated Manual Transmission: Place the shift lever in N (Neutral) and fully depress the brake pedal. The engine will not start unless the lever is in N (Neutral).

   Automatic Transmission: Select P (Park) and fully depress the brake pedal.

   On vehicles with an automatic transmission, the engine can also be started with the shift lever in N (Neutral).

3. Turn the ignition switch to START and hold it until the engine starts, for no longer than 10 seconds. Release the key as soon as the engine starts.

Start the engine without depressing the accelerator pedal. Keep your foot off the accelerator throughout the starting procedure.

1. Do not leave the vehicle stationary while waiting for the engine to warm up.

   Begin driving at moderate engine speeds, avoiding abrupt acceleration and deceleration while the engine warms up during driving.

Manual transmission

• When preparing to move off in your Kia Picanto, keep both the clutch and brake pedals depressed. Check that the engine speed is within the appropriate range, then move the gear lever into the required position.

• Release the parking brake, then gradually release the clutch pedal while applying the accelerator smoothly. Coordinate the pedals to move the vehicle away slowly and under control.

CAUTION

If the engine stalls while the vehicle is moving, do not attempt to select P (Park) on a transmission equipped with that position. If traffic and road conditions allow, select N (Neutral) while the vehicle is still moving and turn the ignition switch to START to attempt to restart the engine.

CAUTION

• Do not operate the starter for longer than 10 seconds at a time. If the engine stalls or does not start, wait 5 to 10 seconds before trying again. Incorrect or prolonged starter operation may damage the starter.

• Never turn the ignition switch to START while the engine is already running. Engaging the starter against a running engine may damage it.