Starting System: Description and Operation
In vehicles with automatic transaxle, the Manual Lever Position Sensor (MLPS) must be closed (PARK or NEUTRAL) in order to operate the Starter Motor. In vehicles with manual transaxles, the Clutch Interrupt Switch must be closed (clutch fully depressed) for the Starter Motor to operate.
Turning the Ignition Switch to START sends current through the Starter Solenoid; current from the Battery then flows directly through the Starter Motor to start the engine.