Starting the car

The car is started using the start button beside the steering wheel when the key is in the passenger compartment.

 Warning

Before starting:

  • Fasten the seatbelt.
  • Adjust the seat, steering wheel and mirrors.
  • Make sure that the brake pedal can be fully depressed.
VCC-XC40HEV-engine start button
Start button location.
Make sure the key is in the car1.
Put the seatbelt on.
Depress the brake pedal.2.

Press the start button.

The car is started.

Change gear to D or R.

 Important

If the engine fails to start after 3 attempts - wait for 3 minutes before making a further attempt. Starting capacity increases if the battery is allowed to recover.

When the engine is started, the starter motor works until the engine is started or until its overheating protection triggers3.

Error messages

If the message Car key not detected is shown, place the key by the back-up reader. Then try to start the car again.

P6-1746-XC40-Storing key/backup reader
Backup reader's location.

 Note

When the key is positioned by the back-up reader, make sure that there are no keys, metal objects or electronic apparatus by the back-up reader, (e.g. mobile phones, tablets, computers or chargers). Several keys close to one another by the back-up reader may cause interference with each other.

 Warning

Never remove the key from the car while driving or during towing.

 Warning

Always take the key out from the car when leaving the car and make sure the car's electrical system is in ignition position 0 – especially if there are children in the car.

 Note

The idling speed can be noticeably higher than normal for certain engine types during cold starting. This is done in order that the emissions system can reach normal operating temperature as quickly as possible, which minimises exhaust emissions and protects the environment.
  1. 1 For cars with passive start, the key needs to be located in the front part of the passenger compartment.
  2. 2 If the car is moving, the engine can be started by pressing the start button.
  3. 3 Does not apply to KERS cars where the alternator is used for starting.