Kia Soul 2023 Key Switch Positions Owner’s Manual
Introduction
The Kia Soul is a well-liked small crossover known for its practicality and distinctive boxy shape. I don’t know anything about specific features of the 2023 Kia Soul because my knowledge expires in September 2021, but I can give you an overview of key switch positions that are frequently found in cars. Please be aware that different car models and manufacturers may have different key switch positions and functionalities.
- Off (Lock): The key is fully inserted into the ignition switch in this position, but the electrical systems of the car are not turned on. When the car is not in use, this is usually the default setting, and it enables you to take the key out of the ignition.
- Accessories (ACC): The accessory mode is activated by turning the key one position counterclockwise from the off position. The vehicle’s electrical systems, including the radio and power outlets, can be used in this position without starting the engine. It helps prevent battery drain while using powered devices like the radio or other appliances.
- On (Run): The vehicle’s electrical systems are turned on and made ready for starting by turning the key one more counterclockwise from the accessory position. The engine is not yet running, but the instrument panel, lights, and other electronic components are all turned on.
- Start (Crank): You turn the key in this position to start the engine. The starter motor engages and turns the engine once you fully turn the key counterclockwise from the on position to the start position. You let go of the key, allowing it to turn back to the on position as the engine begins to run.
- Ignition (Start-Run): Once the engine has been started and the key has been turned back to the on position, the car is ready for operation. The ignition switch’s position keeps the engine running and supplies the electrical systems of the car with power, enabling you to operate the car’s various systems and drive it.
It’s important to note that newer cars, like the Kia Soul, frequently have keyless ignition systems, which substitute a push-button start for a real key. In these situations, the key fob and the car communicate to make the various switch positions and functionalities possible.
Key Positions (If Equipped)
Your vehicle is equipped with four different ignition positions.
Illuminated Ignition Switch
Whenever a front door is opened, the ignition switch will illuminate for your convenience, provided the ignition switch is not in the ON position.
The light will go off immediately when the ignition switch is turned on. It will also go off after about 30 seconds when the door is closed.
Ignition Switch Position
Your vehicle is equipped with four different ignition positions
- LOCK (1)
The ignition key can be removed only in the LOCK position. - ACC (Accessory) (2)
The electrical accessories are operative. If the difficulty is experienced in turning the ignition switch to the ACC position, turn the key while turning the steering wheel right and left to release the tension. - ON (3)
The warning lights can be checked before the engine is started. This is the normal running position after the engine is started.
Do not leave the ignition switch ON if the engine is not running to prevent battery discharge. - START (4)
Turn the ignition switch to the START position to start the engine. The engine will crank until you release the key; then it returns to the ON position. The brake warning light can be checked in this position.
The anti-theft steering column lock (if equipped) is not a substitute for the parking brake. Before leaving the driver’s seat, always make sure the shift lever is engaged in P (Park) for intelligent variable transmission, set the parking brake fully and shut the engine off. Unexpected and sudden vehicle movement may occur if these precautions are not taken.
Ignition Switch
Never turn the ignition switch to LOCK or ACC while the vehicle is moving. This would result in loss of directional control and braking function, which could cause an accident.
NOTICE
If you leave the ignition switch to the ACC or ON position for a long time, the battery may discharge.
Key holder
Do not attach small purses, multiple keys, or any other heavy accessories to the driver’s key chain used to start the vehicle. This may cause the driver to accidentally make the key inserted in the vehicle to change the ignition position to the ACC position while the vehicle is moving thereby increasing the risk of an accident and causing the deactivation of several safety features.
Leaving the Vehicle
To avoid unexpected or sudden vehicle movement, never leave your vehicle if the transmission is not locked in the P (Park) position and the parking brake is fully engaged. Before leaving the driver’s seat, always make sure the shift lever is engaged in P (Park), set the parking brake fully, and shut the engine off.
Starting the Engine
- Make sure the parking brake is applied.
- Place the transmission shift lever in P (Park). Depress the brake pedal fully. You can also start the engine when the shift lever is in the N (Neutral) position.
- Turn the ignition switch to START and hold it there until the engine starts (a maximum of 10 seconds), then release the key.
It should be started without depressing the accelerator. - Do not wait for the engine to warm up while the vehicle remains stationary. Start driving at moderate engine speeds. (Steep accelerating and decelerating should be avoided.)
Steering Wheel
Never reach for any controls through the steering wheel while the vehicle is in motion. The presence of your hand or arm in this area could cause a loss of vehicle control.
- If the engine stalls while you are in motion, do not attempt to move the shift lever to the P (Park) position. If traffic and road conditions permit, you may put the shift lever in the N (Neutral) position while the vehicle is still moving and turn the ignition switch to the START position in an attempt to restart the engine.
Starter
Do not engage the starter for more than 10 seconds. If the engine stalls or fails to start, wait 5 to 10 seconds before reengaging the starter. Improper use of the starter may damage it.
FAQs
- How many key switch positions does the Kia Soul 2023 have?
There are four standard key switch positions on the Kia Soul 2023: Off (Lock), Accessories (ACC), On (Run), and Start (Crank). - What happens when I turn the key to the Off position?
All electrical systems are turned off when the key is in the Off position, allowing you to remove the key without risk. - What functions are available in the Accessories (ACC) position?
Using the vehicle’s electrical systems, such as the radio, power outlets, and other accessories, without starting the engine is possible when the accessories position is selected. - What happens when I turn the key to the On position?
The electrical systems of the car, such as the lights and instrument panel, are powered up when the key is turned to the On position, but the engine is not yet running. - How do I start the engine of the Kia Soul 2023?
To start the engine, turn the key counterclockwise from the On to the Start position. After the engine has started, release the key. - Can I listen to the radio without starting the engine?
It is possible. Without starting the engine, you can use the radio and other electrical features by turning the key to the Accessories (ACC) position. - What happens if I turn the key to the Start position but the engine doesn’t start?
If the engine won’t start when the key is turned to the Start position, there might be an issue with the battery, ignition system, or other parts. You might need to consult the owner’s manual or ask a pro for help. - Can I operate the vehicle in the On position without starting the engine?
Yes, you can drive the car with the ignition on but the engine not running. It’s crucial to keep in mind, though, that doing so might drain the car’s battery. - What should I do if I accidentally turn the key to the Off position while driving?
If you accidentally turn the key to the off position while you’re moving, the engine may shut off and you won’t have power steering or brakes. In such a case, cautiously stop the vehicle in a secure area, then start the engine. - Can I remove the key from the ignition in the On position?
Typically, once the ignition is turned to the On position, you cannot remove the key. Normally, the key must be turned to the “Off” position before being removed. - What does it mean if the key switch positions have been replaced with a push-button start in the Kia Soul 2023?
Some Kia Soul 2023 models might come equipped with a push-button keyless ignition system. In this instance, you don’t need a physical key because you can start and stop the engine by pressing the button. - Can I turn on the radio without turning on the vehicle in a keyless ignition system?
In a keyless ignition system, pressing the power button without depressing the brake pedal typically turns on the radio and other electrical systems without starting the engine. - How do I turn off the engine in a keyless ignition system?
Press and hold the engine stop button until the engine turns off to turn the engine off in a keyless ignition system. It’s possible that the electrical systems will keep running after you get out of the car and lock it. - Are there any precautions I should take with the key switch positions?
It’s crucial to use the key switch positions correctly and to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions. In order to maintain control of the vehicle, avoid turning the key to the Off position while driving. - Where can I find more detailed information about the key switch positions in the Kia Soul 2023?
Consult the Kia Soul 2023’s owner’s manual or seek assistance from a Kia dealership for detailed and precise information about the key switch locations.
Useful Links
View Full User Guide: Kia Soul 2023 Owner’s Manual | Auto User Guide
Download Manuals: Kia | Owner’s Manuals and Documents