VESS is restored to the Niro, with a twist

VESS is restored

I’ve fussed with and complained about the Kia Niro Virtual Engine Sound System (VESS) for months and had disconnected it following the video linked here. But this left potential liability issues and so VESS is restored while adding a disconnect switch following the instructions from another video linked below.

The issue is that a VESS module is now required on all EVs at low speed so that pedestrians are aware that the vehicle is moving. But the 85 decibel back-up warning was simply untenable at my brick apartment complex.

So I began with the disconnection process, which involves nearly fully removing the front bumper. The module is found dead center behind the bumper.

I then explored various possibilities for switch or volume control, and only one was truly available with the proper directions. And if I had followed them exactly, it would have saved me a good deal of time and trouble.

I ordered a switch, which came two to a pack. I was annoyed at this at first, but ended up using the second one. I used connectors that I had, thinking they were for smaller wires. They were not, so the entire connection process needed to be redone. And redone again because I carelessly crimped the wire insulation and not wire on at least one connector, which would have left me with too little wire to work with.

In any case, if you choose to do this, skip the VESS disconnect and use the materials shown in the wiring video I followed here. If you happen to remove the bumper, note that the push pin connections at the bottom require that the bumper’s connection points must be above the lower motor compartment cover to properly work. This caught me in two different locations on reassemble. Otherwise its pretty straightforward.

In any case, all back together and no more worries over liability. And I can turn it off when quiet is needed.

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