If you are in the market for a new car, then you may want to consider the convenience of a push to start vehicle. However, you should know that this technology isn’t always a given. Depending on the manufacturer, the feature may not be a standard option or it may not be available at all. In either case, you need to do your research before making any decisions.
Besides being convenient, a push to start vehicle is generally easier to use than a manual starter. Some manufacturers include mobile apps to help drivers navigate the system. You can also program emergency information into your phone. Regardless of your preference, you need to be sure you can operate the system in the event of an accident.
To begin, you should learn the proper procedure to use your car’s start button. It’s best to get two or three people to assist you in pushing the vehicle. This will keep everyone safe. Additionally, you may need to walk behind the car to get a good view of what’s happening.
Once you’ve identified the right area for the push to start, you’ll need to turn the ignition and place your key in the “on” position. Most automakers will include a physical key with your purchase. There are other options, such as a key fob or backup key slot. These will be more expensive to replace than a standard key.
After the ignition is turned on, you’ll need to make sure the parking brake is off. This is a safety precaution as well, but it will also keep you from accidentally starting the engine.
Getting the right seat in the vehicle is also important. The driver should be seated and have his or her leg on the parking brake. Another option is to use the car’s foot pedal.
The next step in starting your vehicle is to put it into second gear. This will prevent wear and tear on the clutch. As the engine starts, you can then move to third gear. A third gear allows the car to accelerate more smoothly. Keep in mind, however, that it’s possible for the engine to buck unexpectedly.
Finally, you need to move the vehicle into a safe place. Make sure you’ve cleared a spot on a level surface. If you can’t find an open spot, then you’ll need to find a friend or a garage that is equipped with a remote starter.
When you’re ready to go, push the start button. If you’re unsure how to do this, try using the backup key slot, which will allow you to start the engine manually.
When you’re done, take a look at the dashboard to confirm that you’ve made the right move. The car’s computer should tell you that you have enough power to drive. Remember to shut off the engine when you are finished, though. Your car’s battery should be fully charged before you start it, and you should not attempt to start it if it has a dead battery.
Photo by Peter Trones on Unsplash
