Ignition Positions - Buick 2004 Park Avenue Owner's Manual

Ignition Positions

With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn to five
different positions.
A (ACCESSORY): In this position you can operate your
electrical accessories. Press in the ignition switch as
you turn the top of it toward you.
B (LOCK): This is the only position from which you can
remove the key. This position locks your ignition,
steering wheel and transaxle. It's a theft-deterrent
feature.
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Notice: If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you
can't turn it, be sure you are using the correct key;
if so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the
steering wheel left and right while you turn the key
hard. Turn the key only with your hand. Using a
tool to force it could break the key or the ignition
switch. If none of these works, then your vehicle
needs service.
C (OFF): This position lets you turn off the engine but
still turn the steering wheel. It doesn't lock the
steering wheel like LOCK and it doesn't send any power
to the accessories. The instrument panel cluster will
remain powered in OFF to illuminate the gear shift
indicator. The cluster will also activate the parking brake
light when the parking brake is set. Use OFF if you
must have your vehicle in motion while the engine is not
running.
D (RUN): This is the position that the switch returns to
after you start your engine and release the ignition
key. This is the position for driving. Even when
the engine is not running, you can use RUN to operate
your electrical accessories and to display some
instrument panel warning lights.
E (START): This position starts your engine. When the
engine starts, release the ignition key. The switch
will return to RUN for normal driving.