Hyundai Elantra: Ignition Switch / Key Ignition Switch

WARNING

To reduce the risk of SERIOUS INJURY or DEATH, take the following precautions:

• NEVER allow children or any person who is unfamiliar with the vehicle to touch the ignition switch or related parts. Unexpected and sudden vehicle movement can occur.
• NEVER reach through the steering wheel for the ignition switch, or any other control, while the vehicle is in motion. The presence of your hand or arm in this area may cause a loss of vehicle control resulting in an accident.

Whenever the front door is opened, the ignition switch will illuminate, provided the ignition switch is not in the ON position. The light will go off immediately when the ignition switch is turned on or go off after about 30 seconds when the door is closed. (if equipped)

WARNING

NEVER turn the ignition switch to the LOCK or ACC position while the vehicle is in motion except in an emergency. This will result in the engine turning off and loss of power assist for the steering and brake systems.

This may lead to loss of directional control and braking function, which could cause an accident.

Before leaving the driver's seat, always make sure the shift lever is in 1st gear (for manual transmission vehicle) or P (Park, for Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)/dual clutch transmission vehicle) position, apply the parking brake, and turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position.

Unexpected vehicle movement may occur if these precautions are not followed.

NOTICE

Never use aftermarket keyhole covers.This may generate start-up failure due to communication failure

Key ignition switch positions

LOCK

To turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position, put the key in at the ACC position and turn the key towards the LOCK position. The ignition key can be removed in the LOCK position. (The shift lever must be in the P (Park) position for Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)/dual clutch transmission vehicles)

ACC

Electrical accessories are usable. The steering wheel unlocks.

ON

This is the normal key position when the engine has started. All features and accessories are usable. The warning lights can be checked when you turn the ignition switch from ACC to ON.

Do not leave the ignition switch in the ON position when the engine is not running in order to prevent the battery from discharging.

START

To start the engine, turn the ignition switch to the START position. The switch returns to the ON position when you let go of the key.

The engine will crank until you release the key.

Starting the engine

WARNING

Always wear appropriate shoes when operating your vehicle.

Unsuitable shoes, such as high heels, ski boots, sandals, flipflops, etc., may interfere with your ability to use the brake and accelerator pedals.

Vehicle with manual transmission:

1. Make sure the parking brake is applied.

2. Make sure the shift lever is in neutral.

3. Depress the clutch and brake pedals.

4. Turn the ignition switch to the START position. Hold the key (maximum of 10 seconds) until the engine starts and release it.

Information

Depress the brake pedal and clutch pedal until the engine starts.

Vehicle with Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)/dual clutch transmission:

1. Make sure the parking brake is applied.

2. Make sure the shift lever is in P (Park).

3. Depress the brake pedal.

4. Turn the ignition switch to the START position. Hold the key (maximum of 10 seconds) until the engine starts and release it.

Information

• It is best to maintain a moderate engine speed until the vehicle engine comes up to normal operating temperature. Avoid harsh or abrupt acceleration or deceleration while the engine is still cold.
• Whether the engine is cold or warm, always start the vehicle with your foot on the brake pedal. Do not depress the accelerator while starting the vehicle. Do not race the engine while warming it up.

NOTICE

To prevent damage to the vehicle:

• Do not hold the ignition key in the START position for more than 10 seconds. Wait 5 to 10 seconds before trying again.
• Do not push or tow your vehicle to start the engine.