Kia Carnival Reference Library

Kia Carnival: ENGINE START/STOP button / ENGINE START/STOP button position

Your Kia Carnival is equipped with four distinct ignition modes, allowing you to manage vehicle power and engine operation effectively.

OFF

To turn off the engine (when in the START/RUN position) or deactivate vehicle power (in the ON position), ensure the gear selector is in the P (Park) position and press the ENGINE START/STOP button. If you attempt to turn the engine off while the vehicle is not in P (Park), the system will automatically transition to the ACC position rather than turning fully OFF.

Notice icon regarding safe engine shutdown procedure in Kia Carnival NOTICE

For safety reasons, the engine (START/RUN) or vehicle power (ON) can only be deactivated when the Kia Carnival is at a complete standstill.

Caution icon for emergency engine shutdown during vehicle movement CAUTION

In a rare emergency situation where you must turn off the engine while the vehicle is in motion, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for more than 2 seconds, or press it 3 times repeatedly within a 3-second window. This will shift the ignition to the ACC position.

Should you need to restart the Kia Carnival while still rolling, you may press the ENGINE START/STOP button provided the vehicle speed is 3 mph (5 km/h) or higher.

ACC (Accessory)

Accessory mode activation button in Kia Carnival dashboard

To activate Accessory mode from the OFF position, press the ENGINE START/STOP button once without depressing the brake pedal. This action unlocks the steering wheel and powers your electrical accessories (such as the audio system). If the vehicle remains in the ACC position for more than one hour, the system will automatically turn off to protect the Kia Carnival battery from discharging.

ON

To enter the ON position, press the ENGINE START/STOP button while in the ACC mode without depressing the brake pedal. This state allows you to verify the functionality of warning lights and gauges before starting the engine. Please avoid leaving the ignition in the ON position for extended periods while the engine is not running, as this will lead to rapid battery drain.

Warning icon regarding battery drain in ON or ACC ignition modes NOTICE

Prolonged use of the ACC or ON ignition positions without the engine running is strongly discouraged to maintain optimal Kia Carnival battery health.

START/RUN

To start the engine of your Kia Carnival, firmly depress the brake pedal and press the ENGINE START/STOP button while the transmission is in the P (Park) or N (Neutral) position. For optimal performance and safety, it is highly recommended to start the engine only when the transmission is in the P (Park) position.

Instructional visual for starting the Kia Carnival engine NOTICE

If you press the ENGINE START/STOP button without first engaging the brake pedal, the engine will not crank. Instead, the system will cycle the ignition status in the following sequence: OFF → ACC → ON → OFF or ACC.

Warning sign for prohibited actions while operating the Kia Carnival WARNING

  • Never press the ENGINE START/STOP button while the Kia Carnival is in motion, except in an extreme emergency. Attempting to do so while driving could result in a dangerous loss of steering control and significantly reduced braking effectiveness, potentially leading to a collision.
  • Before exiting the driver's seat, always confirm that the transmission is locked in P (Park), ensure the parking brake is fully applied, and verify the engine is completely shut off. Failure to follow this sequence can result in unexpected vehicle movement.
  • Avoid reaching for the ENGINE START/STOP button or any other console controls through the steering wheel while driving. Placing your hand or arm in that area may obstruct the steering wheel, leading to a loss of control and severe safety risks.
  • Keep the driver's footwell area free of loose objects. Items that can slide may interfere with pedal operation, which could cause an accident.