The ignition switch can be turned to four different positions.

To shift out of P (Park), the ignition switch must be in ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY and the brake pedal must be applied.

Notice: Using a tool to force the key from its cylinder 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 it is and you have a manual transmission vehicle, turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. If none of this works, then the vehicle needs service.

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 in which the key can be removed. This position locks the ignition and shift lever on automatic transmission vehicles, and the ignition and steering wheel on manual transmission vehicles.

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.

If the vehicle must be shut off in an emergency:

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 (Electric) or Parking Brake (Manual).

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.

If the vehicle cannot be pulled over, and 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 lets you use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. This position allows you to turn off the engine.

C (ON/RUN): This position is for driving. It is the position the ignition switch returns to after the engine starts, and the key is released.

This position can also be used for service and diagnostics, and to verify the proper operation of the malfunction indicator lamp as may be required for emission inspection purposes.

To shift the transmission out of P (Park), the ignition key has to be in ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN.

The battery could be drained if the key is left in the ACC/ACCESSORY or 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 returns to ON/RUN for driving.

A warning tone will sound when the driver door is opened, the ignition is in ACC/ACCESSORY or LOCK/ OFF, and the key is in the ignition.

Key Lock Release

Vehicles with an automatic transmission are equipped with an electronic key lock release system.

The key lock release is designed to prevent ignition key removal unless the shift lever is in P (Park).

The key lock release is always functional except in the case of an uncharged or low voltage (less than 9–volt) battery. If the vehicle has an uncharged battery or a battery with low voltage, try charging or jump starting the battery. See Jump Starting.

If charging or jump starting the battery does not work, locate the hole below the ignition lock. Insert a flat bladed tool or another key from the key chain into the opening.

When the lever can be felt, actuate the lever away from the driver, and remove the key from the ignition.