Citroen C3: Starting / Switching off the engine with the key / Key ignition switch

Citroen C3 2016-2025 Owners Manual / Driving / Starting / Switching off the engine with the key / Key ignition switch

Citroen C3. Key ignition switch

It has 3 positions:

1. Stop: inserting and removing the key, steering column locked.
2. Ignition: steering column unlocked, ignition on, Diesel preheating, engine running.
3. Starting.

Avoid attaching heavy objects to the key or the remote control. It would weigh down on its shaft in the ignition switch and could cause a malfunction.

Ignition on position

It allows the use of the vehicle's electric equipment or portable devices to be charged. Once the state of charge of the battery drops to the reserve level, the system switches to energy economy mode : the power supply is cut off automatically to preserve the remaining battery charge.

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...

Other information:

Citroen C3 2016-2025 Owners Manual: Deactivating/Reactivating the front passenger airbag

For vehicles on which it is fitted, the control is located inside the glove box. With the ignition off: To deactivate the airbag, turn the key in the switch to the "OFF" position. To reactivate it, turn the key to the "ON" position. When the ignition is switched on: This warning lamp comes on and remains lit to signal the deactivation...

Citroen C3 2016-2025 Owners Manual: Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Electronic brake force distribution (EBFD)