Starting Your Engine - Pontiac 2003 Bonneville Owner's Manual

OFF: This is the only position from which you can
remove the key. This position locks your ignition and
transaxle. It's a theft-deterrent feature.
ACC (Accessory): In this position you can operate
your electrical accessories such as power windows,
sunroof (option), audio system and windshield wipers.
ON: This is the position the switch returns to after
you start your engine and release the switch. Even when
the engine is not running, you can use ON to operate
your electrical accessories and to display some
instrument panel cluster warning lights. This is the
position for driving your vehicle.
START: This position starts the engine. When the
engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will
return to ON for normal driving.
Even if the engine is not running, ACC and ON are
positions that allow you to operate your electrical
accessories.
Key Reminder Warning
If you leave your key in OFF you will hear a warning
tone when you open the driver's door.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
After you turn the ignition off and remove the key, you
will still have power to such accessories as the
radio, sunroof (option) and power windows for up to
10 minutes. Power is turned off if you open a door.
Always leave your key in OFF. If you leave your key in
any position other than OFF, your battery will
discharge prematurely.
Starting Your Engine
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Your engine won't start in any other position
-
that's a
safety feature. To restart when you're already moving,
use NEUTRAL (N) only.
Notice: Don't try to shift to PARK (P) if your
vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the
transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your
vehicle is stopped.
1. With your foot
off
the accelerator pedal, turn your
ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let
go of the key. The idle speed will go down as
your engine gets warm.
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