How to Start a Toyota Yaris Automatic: A Complete Guide

If you’ve recently bought or are about to drive a Toyota Yaris automatic for the first time, knowing how to start it properly is key.

The process is generally straightforward, but there are a few steps that ensure both your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

Whether you’re familiar with keyless entry systems or more traditional ignition methods, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your Toyota Yaris automatic.

1. Preparing to Start Your Toyota Yaris Automatic

Before jumping in and starting the engine, there are a few preliminary steps you should follow to guarantee safety.

First things first, make sure your vehicle is in “Park” mode (P).

In automatic cars, this prevents the car from moving while you start the engine.

It’s also good practice to ensure the handbrake is engaged, providing extra stability and preventing the car from rolling, especially if you’re parked on a slope.

Once you’ve secured your vehicle, check that you’re ready to start the car.

Have you buckled your seatbelt?

Are your mirrors adjusted?

These may seem like minor details, but they contribute to a safer, more comfortable drive.

If you’re concerned about any potential issues with your new vehicle, check out our page on what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car in the UK for some helpful advice.

2. Checking the Keyless Entry System or Inserting the Key

Depending on the model year of your Toyota Yaris, you may have a traditional key ignition or a more modern keyless entry system.

For keyless entry systems, the process is simple.

Make sure your key fob is with you – it doesn’t need to be in your hand as long as it’s within the vehicle.

Toyota’s keyless system senses the proximity of the fob, allowing you to unlock and start the car without physically using the key.

If your Yaris features a traditional key ignition, simply insert the key into the ignition slot, located on the steering column.

Wondering where the Toyota Yaris is manufactured? Check out our page on where the Toyota Yaris is made for a comprehensive look at Toyota’s global production.

3. Pressing the Brake Pedal

Before attempting to start the engine, you need to press down on the brake pedal.

This is a crucial safety feature in automatic vehicles.

By pressing the brake, you’re preventing the car from moving unexpectedly while the engine starts.

In Toyota Yaris models with push-button start systems, the engine won’t start unless the brake pedal is fully pressed.

For traditional key ignition systems, pressing the brake is also recommended to avoid any sudden movement of the vehicle.

4. Starting the Engine (Push-Button Start)

For Yaris models equipped with a push-button start, starting the engine is as simple as pressing a button.

After you’ve ensured the car is in “Park” and you’re pressing the brake pedal, press the “Start/Stop” button located on the dashboard.

The engine should roar to life.

If it doesn’t, check if your foot is firmly pressing the brake.

Sometimes, the key fob’s battery might be low, which can interfere with the signal to the car.

In such cases, hold the fob closer to the push-start button or use the physical key embedded in the fob to start the car.

5. Starting the Engine (Key Ignition)

If your Yaris has a traditional key ignition, the process is a bit more familiar.

Insert the key into the ignition, turn it clockwise, and hold it in position for a moment until the engine starts.

Once the engine has started, release the key, and it will return to its default position.

Make sure not to hold the key for too long after the engine starts, as this could damage the starter motor.

6. Warming Up the Engine (Optional)

With modern vehicles like the Toyota Yaris, warming up the engine is not as necessary as it was in older cars.

However, during cold weather, it’s a good idea to let the car idle for a minute or two.

This allows the engine oil to circulate fully and ensures that everything is properly lubricated before you drive off.

For regular weather conditions, though, there’s no need to wait – the car is ready to go almost immediately after starting.

7. Common Starting Issues and Troubleshooting

Occasionally, you might run into issues when starting your Yaris.

Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Engine doesn’t start: If you’ve pressed the brake and the start button or turned the key but the engine doesn’t fire up, it could be due to a drained battery. Check the battery terminals or call for roadside assistance if necessary.
• Keyless entry system isn’t working: If the push-start button isn’t responding, the key fob’s battery might be dead. Try using the physical key or replace the fob battery.
• Dashboard error messages: Pay attention to any warning lights that appear on the dashboard. These could indicate a variety of issues, from low fuel to engine problems.

If you’ve just purchased a vehicle from a dealership, you might also want to learn how long it takes to service a car at a dealership by checking out this comprehensive guide.

8. Maintaining Your Toyota Yaris Automatic’s Starting System

Keeping your car’s starting system in good condition is essential for long-term reliability.

Here are some maintenance tips to ensure your Yaris starts smoothly every time:

• Battery health: Regularly check your car’s battery. Batteries in modern cars typically last around 3-5 years, but cold weather and short trips can reduce this lifespan. If your car struggles to start, a weak battery might be the cause.
• Ignition system: For traditional key ignition models, ensure the key is in good condition. Worn or damaged keys can cause problems when starting.
• Check for warning signs: If the car is slow to start or you notice unusual noises, have it checked by a mechanic. Catching problems early can prevent bigger, more expensive issues down the road.

Want to know more about the cost of owning a Yaris? Check out our guide on what insurance group the Toyota Yaris Hybrid belongs to for valuable information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I do if my Toyota Yaris automatic doesn’t start?
A: First, ensure the car is in “Park” mode and your foot is pressing the brake. If the problem persists, check the battery or contact roadside assistance.

Q: Do I need to press the brake pedal every time I start the engine?
A: Yes, in automatic cars like the Toyota Yaris, pressing the brake pedal is a safety measure to prevent unintended movement.

Q: How long should I warm up the engine before driving?
A: In most weather conditions, the Toyota Yaris is ready to drive almost immediately. However, in very cold weather, it’s a good idea to let the car idle for a minute or two.

Q: Can I start the Yaris automatic remotely?
A: Some models may offer remote start as an option. Check your owner’s manual or contact your dealer for more information.

Q: What do the dashboard lights mean when I start the car?
A: The dashboard lights indicate the status of various systems in your car. If any lights remain on after the engine starts, refer to your owner’s manual for further guidance.

Conclusion

Starting your Toyota Yaris automatic is a simple process once you know the steps.

Whether your model has a push-button start or a traditional key ignition, following the correct procedure ensures a smooth start and safe driving experience.

Don’t forget to maintain the starting system to avoid any issues down the road.

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