Engine Starting

Apply the parking brake.

In low ambient temperatures, turn off all auxiliary electrical loads to reduce the load on the battery.

On models with a manual transmission, fully depress the clutch pedal and shift to neutral.

On models with an automatic transmission, make sure the selector lever is in the "P" or "N" position and depress the foot brake pedal.

Without depressing the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the "START" (III) position and engage the starter. If the engine does not start immediately, continue cranking the engine with the starter, remembering that continuous starter operation must not exceed 15 seconds. Wait at least ten seconds before the next attempt to allow the starter motor to cool.

If the engine cannot be started with the starter running continuously for 15 seconds, or if the started engine stalls immediately, try to start it again with the accelerator pedal depressed halfway. After the engine starts successfully, release the accelerator pedal to avoid a sudden increase in engine speed.

If the engine still cannot be started, fully depress the accelerator pedal and hold it down for the entire time the starter is operating. This helps clear excess fuel from the intake manifold and engine cylinders. Continuous starter operation, as in the previous cases, must not exceed 15 seconds. If the engine does not start after purging the cylinders, try again with the accelerator pedal partially depressed. Immediately after the engine starts, release the pedal.

Starting the Engine in Cold Weather at High Altitude (above 2400 m / 7900 ft)

Starting the engine becomes more difficult in low ambient temperatures. At high altitude, where the air is thin, starting is made even more difficult. Follow the instructions below when starting the engine under these conditions.

Turn off all auxiliary electrical loads to reduce the load on the battery.

Depress the accelerator pedal halfway and hold it in this position for the entire time the starter is cranking the engine. Continuous starter operation must not exceed 15 seconds. After the engine starts successfully, gradually release the accelerator pedal, avoiding a significant increase in engine speed.

If the engine does not start, fully depress the accelerator pedal and hold it down for the entire time the starter is operating. As in the previous case, continuous starter operation must not exceed 15 seconds. If the engine still does not start, repeat the attempt described above.

At negative ambient temperatures, or if the vehicle has not been used for several days, let the engine warm up for 3 to 4 minutes before driving off.