We’ve begun a review of all 15 Kia models and model variations and have come across one truly disturbing trend. The company is spreading new key fobs with separate mechanical keys through the product line.
Nine models and model variations now use the new fob, first put into use by sister company Hyundaiseveral years ago. The fob and key are shown to the right.
It began with the introduction of the EV9. By 2026, Carnival, EV6, Sorento, Sportage and Telluride and the EV9 all use this key fob.
This trend will likely spread to the rest of the line.
In our opinion, this development is a prescription for disaster, as the mechanical keys can easily be lost or simply left behind.
There is certainly a smart phone app available from Kia, and I can attest to the fact that it works smoothly. However, lock and unlock features are available by paid subscription only.
We can’t help but feel like this combination will come back to haunt both companies.
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The material on these pages 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 — 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Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow.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.
The author has 30+ years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s, ME: MS, RPI, NY
Kia spreading new key fobs across the lineup
We’ve begun a review of all 15 Kia models and model variations and have come across one truly disturbing trend. The company is spreading new key fobs with separate mechanical keys through the product line.
It began with the introduction of the EV9. By 2026, Carnival, EV6, Sorento, Sportage and Telluride and the EV9 all use this key fob.
This trend will likely spread to the rest of the line.
In our opinion, this development is a prescription for disaster, as the mechanical keys can easily be lost or simply left behind.
There is certainly a smart phone app available from Kia, and I can attest to the fact that it works smoothly. However, lock and unlock features are available by paid subscription only.
We can’t help but feel like this combination will come back to haunt both companies.
——————————————————————-
The material on these pages 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 — 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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The author has 30+ years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s, ME: MS, RPI, NY