Start a Hyundai, Genesis or Kia with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Hyundai, Genesis or Kia with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Hyundai, Genesis or Kia

• First, if you’re still locked outside, click here for help getting in!
• Second, you can find video help here!
• Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Hyundai, Genesis and Kia use no less than eight different ways to start the vehicle if the Smart Key is weak or the Smart Key does not work correctly. However, the companies are migrating all their models to Method 6, smartly standardizing the process. That is until Genesis seemed to take a temporary step back in 2021. Method 8 is a new digital option.

And if your start battery is still good, we’re going to get you going! Just follow along. Click here for help jump starting a Kia EV!

Start Method 6

The latest models from all three manufacturers — with two exceptions — have a much simplified process. Staring with vehicle updates in the 2013 model year, simply press the Start / Stop ignition button with the Smart Key while depressing the brake to start the vehicle. We originally named this the back up start Method 6. If this does not work in your model, continue on below for a method that will.

Start Method 7

The exceptions noted are first, a new look button marked ‘EV’ (far left) in some Kia EVs. It is pushed just like the Start / Stop button above. The second exception is the 2021 and 2022 Genesis G80, which is now a Seventh Method (this method is abandoned and returned to the button method above for all models). If the vehicle does not recognize the key fob or Smart Key, slip the Smart Key into the space behind the shifter dial and cup holders and in front of the leather of the console (second image above left). Then, step on the brake and push the Start / Stop ignition button to start the vehicle as normal.

Start Method 8

We must also add an Eighth Method, which is digital. In new GV60, G70, GV70, G80 and G90, a registered smart phone or a pre-registered card key can be placed on the vehicle’s wireless charging pad. It is found in front of the center console storage area (left). Once in place, the vehicle can be started as normal.

Older Methods

Start Method 1

The Kia Forte, Sportage, and Sorento and Hyundai Sonata (prior to 2014) use Method 1. Insert the Smart Key in the Smart Key holder, which is a slot inside the center console, then press the Start / Stop ignition button while depressing the brake. To remove the Key, press it, then pull. Check out the video below.

Start Method 2

The Kia Magentis also uses a slot in the center console in Method 2. Insert the Key and then press the Start / Stop ignition button while depressing the brake. To remove, press the Smart Key inward past the detent and then pull it outward.

Start Method 3

The Hyundai Genesis, built before 2014, uses Method 3, which is a slot located behind a door above the shifter. Insert the Key and then press the Start / Stop ignition button while depressing the brake. To remove the Key, press it and then pull it out.

Start Method 4

The Kia Optima (prior to 2014) and Soul and Hyundai Equus use Method 4, which is a slot in the glove box. The slot is a little higher in the Equus. Insert the Key and then press the Start / Stop ignition button while depressing the brake. To remove the Key, press it and then pull it out.

Start Method 5

The Kia Borrego uses the Method 5 slot, which is in the dash just below the Start /Stop ignition button. It should be readily visible. Insert the Smart Key and then press the Start / Stop button while depressing the brake. To remove the Key, release it by pressing and then pull it out.

Note: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

Video Help

Click here for videos to walk you through the processes.

Hyundai models examined include Accent, IONIQ, Ionic 5, Ionic 6, Kona, Elantra, NEXO, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tucson, Veloster and Venue. Genesis models examined include GV60, G70, GV70, G80, G80-EV, GV80 and G90. Kia models examined include Cadenza, Carnival, Forte, K5, K900, Niro, Optima, Rio, Sedona, Seltos, Sorento, Soul, Sportage, Stinger and Telluride. Model years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026.

… Return to Part I, Getting In

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The information on this website is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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