Engine starting controller for a vehicle

An engine starting controller for a vehicle (2) provided with a smart ignition function. The controller communicates with a portable communicator (11) including an emergency key. When the battery of the portable communicator (11) is drained, the emergency key is used to open the door lock and start the engine. A seat for depositing the emergency key is provided in the passenger compartment. The starting of the engine is enabled when the emergency key is deposited on the seat. The seat is illuminated or moved to notify the driver where to deposit the key.