The 8th digit of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) shows the code letter for the engine. Use this number to verify the type of engine in the vehicle. See Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Follow the proper steps to start the engine.
To start a diesel engine, see Starting the Diesel Engine.
Automatic Transmission
Set the parking brake and move the shifter to N (Neutral) or P (Park), if so equipped. The engine will not start in any other position.
Manual Transmission
Set the parking brake, shift to N (Neutral) and hold the clutch pedal to the floor while starting the engine.
Starter Motor Operation
| • | The starter motor will disengage if you release the key or the engine reaches a predetermined engine speed. |
| • | To prevent overheating, the starter motor will disengage after continuously operating for 15 seconds. You must release the key from the start position to re-engage the starter. |
| • | The starter motor will not engage if the engine is already running. |
| • | The starter motor will disengage if, after two seconds, the starter pinion gear does not engage the flywheel or there is no engine rpm signal from the engine speed sensor. |
Starting the Engine
- Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as the engine gets warm.
- If the engine does not start in 10 seconds, push the accelerator pedal all the way down and crank the engine for five more seconds, unless it starts sooner.
- If the engine still will not start, or starts but then stops, it could be flooded with too much gasoline.
Wait 15 seconds to let the starter motor cool down. Do Steps 1 through 3 again.
When the engine starts, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal.
Notice: The engine is designed to work with the electronics in the vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer/retailer. If you do not, the engine might not perform properly. Any resulting damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
If you ever need to have the vehicle towed, see Towing Your Vehicle.
Gasoline Engine Warm-Up
When the engine starts, let it run for 20 or 30 seconds to warm up before putting a load on it.
Drive at moderate speeds for the first 2 to 3 miles (3.2 to 4.8 km), especially in cold weather. See High Idle System.
Restarting the Gasoline Engine While Moving (Automatic Transmission)
If you have to restart the engine while the vehicle is moving, shift to N (Neutral).
Stopping the Gasoline Engine
Let the engine idle for a few seconds before turning it off after you have finished driving the vehicle.
If you shift to N (Neutral) or P (Park), set the parking brake.
If the vehicle has a two-speed axle, put the range selector in low. To be sure the axle has shifted into low, engage the clutch and transmission; the vehicle may move slightly when you do this.
While the engine is idling and before you turn it off, you can make a list of any operational or handling concerns to give to responsible maintenance personnel so they can handle them right away.
Moisture will condense in a fuel tank that is almost empty if the engine has not run for a while, even just overnight under some conditions. So, it is always best to refuel the vehicle at the end of each run.
