Citroen C3: Starting / Switching off the engine with the key / Starting the engine

With the parking brake applied:

• With a manual gearbox, place the gear lever in neutral then fully depress the clutch pedal.
• With an automatic gearbox, place the gear selector in mode N or P then fully depress the brake pedal.
• Insert the key into the ignition switch; the system recognises the code.
• Unlock the steering column by simultaneously turning the steering wheel and the key.

In certain cases, you may have to apply significant force to move the steering wheel (wheels on full lock, for example).

• With a petrol engine, operate the starter motor by turning the key to position 3 without pressing the accelerator pedal, until the engine starts. Once the engine starts, release the key.

With petrol engines, after a cold start, preheating the catalytic converter can cause noticeable engine vibrations for anything up to 2 minutes while stationary with the engine running (accelerated idle speed).

• With a Diesel engine, turn the key to position 2, ignition on, to operate the engine preheating system.

Wait until this warning lamp goes off in the instrument panel, then operate the starter motor by turning the key to position 3 without pressing the accelerator pedal, until the engine starts. Once the engine starts, release the key.

In wintry conditions, the warning lamp may stay on for a longer period. When the engine is hot, the warning lamp does not come on.

If the engine does not start straight away, switch off the ignition. Wait a few seconds before operating the starter motor again. If the engine does not start after a few attempts, do not keep trying - risk of damaging the starter motor and the engine. Contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.

In mild conditions, do not leave the engine at idle to warm up but move off straight away and drive at moderate speed.