GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Ignition Positions Key Access


Object Number: 806855  Size: B3

The key can be turned to four different positions.

To shift out of P (Park), the ignition must be in the ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY and the brake pedal must be applied.

Notice: Using a tool to force the key from its cylinder could cause damage or break the key. Use the correct key and turn the key only with your hand. Make sure the key is all the way in. If it is and you have a manual transmission vehicle, turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. If none of this works, then the vehicle needs service.

A (LOCK/OFF): This is the only position in which the key can be inserted or removed. This position locks the ignition and shifter on automatic transmission vehicles, and the ignition and steering wheel on manual transmission vehicles.

B (ACC/ACCESSORY): This position lets you use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. This position allows you to turn off the engine.

C (ON/RUN): This position is for driving. It is the position the ignition switch returns to after the engine starts, and the key is released. To shift the transmission out of P (Park), the ignition key has to be in ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN. The battery could be drained if the key is left in the ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN position with the engine off. The vehicle might not start if the battery is allowed to drain for an extended period of time.

D (START): This position starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch returns to ON/RUN for driving. A warning tone will sound when the driver door is opened, the ignition is in ACC/ACCESSORY or LOCK/OFF and the key is in the ignition.

Ignition Positions Keyless Access

You can turn the ignition control knob to four different positions.

To shift out of P (Park), ignition must be in the ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY and the regular brake pedal must be applied.


Object Number: 1860236  Size: A2

Using a tool to force the ignition control knob from its cylinder could damage it.

Make sure the keyless access transmitter is inside the vehicle when trying to turn the ignition control knob.

A (LOCK/OFF): The ignition control knob cannot be removed from the vehicle. The keyless access transmitter must be inside the vehicle to start the engine. This position locks the ignition and shifter on automatic transmission vehicles, and the ignition and steering wheel on manual transmission vehicles.

B (ACC/ACCESSORY): This position allows you to use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. This position will allow you to turn off the engine.

C (ON/RUN): This position is for driving. It is the position the ignition switch returns to after the engine starts, and the control knob is released. If you need to shift the transmission out of P (Park), the ignition control knob has to be in ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN. The battery could be drained if you leave the key in the ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN position with the engine off. You may not be able to start your vehicle if the battery is allowed to drain for an extended period of time.

D (START): This position starts the engine.