Starting the engine

The engine of the Kia Opirus (2003–2012) can be started either conventionally with the ignition key or conveniently with the electronic key. The system provides a high level of security through an integrated immobilizer and automatically blocks the starting process if operated incorrectly. Especially at low temperatures, it is recommended to let the engine warm up beforehand without operating the accelerator. Detailed step-by-step instructions and safety notes ensure smooth engine starting in any situation.

Always wear suitable footwear when driving your vehicle. Unsuitable footwear (ski boots, shoes with high heels, etc.) could prevent you from properly operating the brake, accelerator or clutch pedal* when required.

1. Make sure the parking brake is applied.

2. Shift the selector lever to P (Park) and depress the brake pedal.

The engine can also be started when the selector lever is in the N (Neutral) position.

3. Turn the ignition key to the START position and hold it there until the engine starts (but no longer than 10 seconds).

Release the key once the engine has started.

4. In very low outside temperatures or if the vehicle has not been used for several days, let the engine warm up without operating the accelerator pedal.

Regardless of whether the engine is cold or warm, it should always be started without operating the accelerator pedal.

If the engine stalls while driving, do not try to shift the selector lever to P (Park). If traffic and road conditions allow, you can shift the selector lever to N (Neutral) while driving and try to restart the engine. To do so, turn the ignition key to the START position.

Starting and stopping the engine with the electronic key*

Starting the engine

Starting without a key in the ignition switch

1. Make sure the parking brake is applied.

2. Shift the selector lever to P (Park). The engine cannot be started when the selector lever is in the N (Neutral) position.

3. Leave the electronic key in the vehicle. Note, however, that the key must not be placed on the parcel shelf.

4. Depress the brake pedal.

5. The immobilizer indicator () in the instrument cluster will now light up for approx. 10 seconds.

6. Keep the brake pedal depressed and turn the ignition switch to the ON position to start the engine.

If you release the brake pedal or do not turn the ignition switch within 10 seconds, the ignition switch will be locked. In this case, repeat steps 4 to 6.

If the battery in the electronic key is weak or the electronic key malfunctions, you can also start the engine by inserting the key into the ignition switch. After inserting the key, you have approx. 10 seconds to start the engine. After that, the ignition switch is automatically locked.

If the engine does not start within the 10 seconds, you must remove the key from the ignition switch and insert it again to restart.

• If you insert the electronic key into the ignition switch three times and depress the brake pedal but do not start the engine within 10 seconds each time, the engine cannot be started for the next 5 minutes. This lockout function is designed to prevent components from overheating.

  In this case, wait 5 minutes before attempting to start the engine again.

  If the engine still cannot be started after 5 minutes, contact an authorized KIA dealer to have the vehicle inspected.

• If the electronic key is placed on the parcel shelf, the engine cannot be started.
• If a door is opened and closed while the engine is being started or is already running, the system checks whether the electronic key is still inside the vehicle. If no key is detected, the immobilizer indicator light flashes (). Always make sure you keep the key with you.

The ignition switch can only be turned, or the engine can only be started, when the electronic key is inside the vehicle and the brake pedal is depressed. (However, the key must not be on the parcel shelf.) Make sure that children and anyone unfamiliar with the vehicle do not operate the ignition switch or other controls.

Stopping the Engine

1. Keep the brake pedal depressed once the vehicle has come to a stop.

2. Move the selector lever to the P (Park) position.

3. Firmly depress the parking brake pedal.

4. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position.

If the selector lever is not in the P (Park) position, the ignition switch cannot be turned back to the LOCK position.

If the ignition switch is in the ON position (electronic key not inserted) and is then turned to the ACC position, the ignition switch is locked only after 10 seconds. Within those 10 seconds, the engine can be started again. If the selector lever is moved to the P position, the ignition switch is locked immediately.

Starting the engine in the Kia Opirus 2003–2011 is convenient and safe thanks to modern technology. Whether you use the ignition key or the electronic key, the systems are designed to ensure trouble-free engine starts.

Observing the safety and operating instructions is especially important to avoid damage to the vehicle and to ensure the safety of all occupants. The Kia Opirus combines comfort with the highest reliability.

Thanks to the integrated immobilizer and the precise control of the starting functions, the Kia Opirus 2003–2011 remains a safe and user-friendly vehicle in all situations.