Starting the engine
NOTE - Kickdown mechanism (if equipped) If the vehicle is equipped with a kickdown mechanism in the accelerator pedal, it prevents the throttle from opening fully by accident, as pressing the accelerator pedal requires more force from the driver. However, if the accelerator pedal is pressed down by more than 80%, the throttle is fully open and it is easier for the driver to press the accelerator pedal.
This is not a malfunction. It is normal operation.
Starting the engine
- Make sure the parking brake is applied.
- Manual transmission - Fully depress the clutch pedal and move the gear selector lever to the Neutral position. While turning the ignition switch to the START position, keep the clutch and brake pedals depressed.
Automatic transmission - Move the gear selector lever to the P (Park) position.
Fully depress the brake pedal.
The engine can also be started when the gear selector lever is in N (Neutral).
Whether the engine is cold or warm, it should be started without pressing the accelerator pedal.
Start driving at moderate engine speeds.
(Avoid sudden acceleration and braking.) CAUTION If the engine stalls while driving, do not attempt to shift the gear selector lever to P (Park). If traffic and road conditions allow, the driver may shift the gear selector lever to N (Neutral) while the vehicle is still moving and turn the ignition switch to START to try restarting the engine. CAUTION Do not operate the starter motor for more than 10 seconds. If the engine stalls or does not start, wait 5 to 10 seconds before engaging the starter again. Improper use of the starter motor may damage it.Starting a Diesel Engine
To start a cold diesel engine, it must first be preheated before starting. After starting, allow it to warm up before beginning to drive.
- Make sure the parking brake is applied.
- Manual transmission - Fully depress the clutch pedal and place the transmission in Neutral. While turning the ignition switch to the START position, keep the clutch and brake pedals depressed.
Automatic transmission - Move the gear selector lever to the P (Park) position.
Fully depress the brake pedal.
The engine can also be started when the gear selector lever is in N (Neutral).
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position to preheat the engine. The glow plug indicator will then illuminate.
- When the glow plug indicator goes off, turn the ignition switch to the START position and hold it there until the engine starts (no longer than 10 seconds), then release the key.
NOTE If the engine does not start within 10 seconds after preheating is completed, turn the ignition switch back to LOCK within 10 seconds, then to ON, to preheat the engine again.
Starting and Stopping an Engine Equipped with a Turbocharger Intercooler
- Immediately after starting the engine, do not raise the engine speed sharply or accelerate.
If the engine is cold, let it idle for a few seconds before driving to ensure sufficient lubrication of the turbocharger assembly.
This time allows the turbocharger to cool down before the engine is switched off. CAUTION Do not switch off the engine immediately after it has been under heavy load. Otherwise the engine or the turbocharger assembly may be seriously damaged.
Test yourself
A quick Kia Rio YB quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.