Several times now my 2010 has refused to turn over again if I try to start it once and let off the key too soon. IOW, it will crank once and then not again until after I take the key out and start over. It's never failed to crank the first time. Is this some kind of built in safety/theft deterrent feature?

 

Bump...

 

Sounds like to me the ignition theft deterrent needs to reset itself after such an improper start such as releasing the key too soon. The ignition lock cylinder has an electronic ring around it behind the steering column covers that senses the chip in the key. It makes sense to me that if the key is not held in the start position for the right amount of time acheiving a sucessful start it might think it is an unauthorized key. Therefore pulling the key all the way out then back in reinitializes the theft deterrent system to recognize a valid key.

Also once the engine is started you can try to turn it to start again and it will not engage the starter if the engine is already running. This protects the teeth on the flywheel and starter drive gear not to mention preventing embarassment of that grinding sound.


I tried what you did on my 08, however it did not require me to pull the key out of the cylinder.

I'd say break your habit of not holding the key in start long enough and that will solve your problem.