Kia Sorento XM Owner's Manual.

Illuminated Ignition Switch (If Equipped)

~3min read
Whenever a front door is opened, the ignition switch will illuminate for your

Whenever the front door is opened, the ignition switch illumination turns on for your convenience if the ignition key is not in the ON position. The light will turn off immediately when the ignition is turned on. It will also turn off approximately 30 seconds after the door is closed.

Ignition Switch Positions

Lock

The steering wheel locks to protect against theft (if equipped). The ignition

The steering wheel is locked to help protect against theft (if equipped). The ignition key can only be removed in the LOCK position.

When turning the ignition key to the LOCK position, push the key in to the ACC position and turn the key to the LOCK position.

ACC (Accessory)

The steering wheel is unlocked and electrical accessories can be operated.

✽ NOTICE

If you have difficulty turning the ignition key to the ACC position, turn the steering wheel slightly to the right and left while turning the key to relieve the pressure.

On

The warning lights can be checked before starting the engine. This is the normal operating position after the engine is started.

Do not leave the ignition in the ON position when the engine is not running, to prevent battery discharge.

Start

Turn the ignition key to the START position to start the engine. The engine will crank until you release the key; it then returns to the ON position. The brake warning light can be checked in this position.

WARNING - Ignition Switch

  • Never turn the ignition key to the LOCK or ACC position while the vehicle is moving. This will result in loss of steering control and braking function, which may cause an accident.
  • The steering column lock does not replace the parking brake. Before leaving the driver's seat, always make sure the shift lever is in 1st gear for a manual transmission or P (Park) for an automatic transmission, fully apply the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Sudden unexpected vehicle movement may occur if these precautions are not taken.
  • Never touch the ignition switch or any other controls through the steering wheel while the vehicle is moving. Having your hand or arm in this area may result in loss of vehicle control, an accident, and serious injury or death.
  • Do not place any loose objects around the driver's seat, as they may move while driving, interfere with the driver, and cause an accident.

Starting the Engine

WARNING

Always wear suitable footwear when driving. Unsuitable footwear (high heels, ski boots, etc.) may prevent you from properly operating the brake and accelerator pedals.

1. Make sure the parking brake is applied.

2. Automatic transmission - Move the shift lever to the P (Park) position.

Fully depress the brake pedal. You may also start the engine when the shift lever is in the N (Neutral) position.

3. Turn the ignition key to the START position and hold it until the engine starts (10 seconds maximum), then release the key.

4. In very cold weather (below 0 °F / -18 °C) or after the vehicle has not been used for several days, allow the engine to warm up without pressing the accelerator pedal.

Whether the engine is cold or warm, it should be started without pressing the accelerator.

CAUTION

If the engine stalls while driving, do not attempt to shift the lever to P (Park). If traffic and road conditions permit, you may shift the lever to N (Neutral) while the vehicle is moving and turn the ignition key to the START position to attempt to restart the engine.

CAUTION

Do not operate the starter motor for more than 10 seconds. If the engine stalls or fails to start, wait 5-10 seconds before operating the starter again. Improper use of the starter may damage it.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Sorento Owner's Manual quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.