Insert the remote control key in the ignition switch and press it in to its end position. Note that if the car is equipped with alcohol lock* then a breath test must first be approved before the engine can be started. For more information on the Alcohol lock, see Alcohol lock*.
Press the START/STOP ENGINE button and then release it.
When the engine is started the starter motor works until the engine is started or until its overheating protection triggers.
When starting the engine in normal conditions the car's electric drive motor is prioritised - the diesel engine remains switched off. This means that after pressing the START/STOP ENGINE button the electric motor has "started" and the car is ready to drive. A started motor is indicated by the combined instrument panel's indicator lamps extinguishing and its preset theme illuminating (see Digital combined instrument panel - overview).
However, there are situations where the diesel engine is started instead, e.g. in the event of the temperature being too low or if the hybrid battery needs charging.
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.
Warning
Never remove the remote control key from the ignition switch after starting the engine or when the car is being towed.
Warning
Always remove the remote control key from the ignition switch when leaving the car, and make sure that the key position is 0 - in particular if there are children in the car. For information on how this works - see Key positions.
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.
Follow steps 2-3 for keyless starting of the engine.
Note
A prerequisite for the engine to start is that one of the car's remote control keys with the Keyless drive function is in the passenger compartment or cargo area.
Warning
Never remove the remote control key from the car while driving or during towing.
