Tag: key

Open a Kia with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Kia with a Dead Key Fob

Hyundai flip key fobRetrieving the mechanical key

Kia has used a flip key key fob since 2015 and they remain in use today (2025) in some models. The mechanical key is found by pressing the chrome button on the end opposite the key ring. The mechanical key is released and remains attached to the fob.

hyundai Mechanical KeyTo use the most common Kia key fobs, press and hold the release button at the key ring end of the remote control or ‘clicker’ and pull the key ring to remove mechanical key. Use the key to unlock the driver’s door. They too remain in limited use today (2025).

Kia key fobKia added a new fob in 2022 that features all the the buttons on the side (right). The button at the very top — that is, the one closest to the key ring end — is the one to push in order to release the mechanical key.

If a key hole is visible, use the key to unlock the driver’s door.

Hidden Keyholes

Two Piece Door Handles

Kia Keyhole CoverStarting with the 2014 Cadenza and K900, the manufacturer adopted the hidden keyhole trick. The Optima and Sportage were added in 2016. These models all feature a two-piece door handle. As shown in the image to the right, press the mechanical key into the slot found under the cover at the back of the driver’s door handle (1) and pull forward and up by hand (2).

Pulling the cap while holding some upward pressure will work best. There is a black button in the slot that is being pushed up with the key in this move and the cap is immediately to move!

Hyundai hybrid door unlockA “hybrid” of this was introduced in 2024 in the Sorento and Telluride. The mechanical key is again slipped into a slot beneath the back of the door handle and pushed upwards. Now however, a small cover, seen in blue to the right, is slid to the side and out of the way. This should be done when the mechanical key is still inserted and pushed upward. The keyhole is then revealed.

And yes, with the two-piece handle one way or another you must pull a piece of your car off, but its ok! The cover will come off exposing the keyhole.

One Piece Door Handles

Hyundai flush handleKia EV6 vehicles feature a flush door handle.  A push on the front of the handle will rotate the rear part outward. Then pull the handle out as far as it will go. The key hole is immediately visible (right). The mechanical key can be inserted and turned to unlock the vehicle.

Check our videos for additional help.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2024/09/open-a-kia-with-a-dead-key-fob/

Replacing a Standard Toyota Key Battery

Toyota Key Battery

Toyota remoteMy was having some trouble with his Toyota remote and actually thought it would need to be replaced. So rather than leave him to spend what’s likely a lot of money, we went ahead and opened it up. We did a video as well that you can see here.

There is a gap upper corner that is your way in. A small screwdriver will do the trick.

Note right away that the buttons are loose and keeping the button side down would be helpful. Also, the buttons only fit in one spot each, so not to worry.

The battery is found in a case inside the key and it too needs to be separated. Check out the video for instructions and have a CR 2016 battery on hand. There is a circuit board inside that is loose and also goes in just one way.

See more videos for Toyota keys and fob battery replacements here.

Smart Keys or Intelligent Keys, or Access Keys – or whatever the manufacturer of your chooses to call them – that let you into your car and start it with just a touch use up their internal batteries at alarming rates, catching busy drivers unawares – even though the car had tried to warn you.

Our goal is to help you feel safe – and keep you moving or get you moving if at all possible – rather than leave you fretting whenever your key fob stops working. The instructions for getting into and starting most keyless start cars can be found on our pages – without roadside assistance.

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2024/08/replacing-a-standard-toyota-key-battery/

Electronic Steering Wheel Lock Indicators

Wheel Lock

Steering Lock IndicatorThis is an Electronic Steering Wheel Lock Indicator symbol. It may be seen in either yellow/amber or red. Either indicates a malfunction in the electronic steering wheel lock system. This is part of the electronic start and immobilization system.

  • Before continuing, are you sure one of these is your symbol?? If yes, then read on below.
  • Otherwise, you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

Steering locked indicatorThe symbol may also appear as a steering wheel alone with arrows on both side and in gray scale. The arrows are suggesting a shake of the wheel to free it. The symbol above is represented by an image of a key and that of a steering wheel. If the symbol appears in red, it will not be possible to start or steer the vehicle.

Manufacturers also caution not to tow the vehicle. In any color, contact a qualified service center immediately. This one can leave you stranded.

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

 

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2017/05/electronic-steering-lock-indicators/

Engine Start System Fault Indicator

Engine Start

Engine Start System FaultThese are Engine Start System Fault Indicator symbols. They can appear in yellow/amber or red and indicate a fault in the electronics. If it is red, it is suggested that the engine NOT be switched off, if its running, and a service center be contacted and headed for immediately. If it is amber, a service facility should still be contacted as soon as possible.

  • Before continuing, is one of these truly your symbol?? If yes, continue on read on below.
  • Otherwise, you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

And there’s still more …

Engine Start Symbol Fault 2Engine start systemThe symbols appear as a physical key with or without its associated keyhole, even though an actual physical key is not used. We included it with routine indicators because, as electronics takes over everything, these symbols will indeed become routine due to any problems with starters, start/stop systems and other associated electronics.

Security Indicator SymbolKeyless system malfunctionDo not confuse these with other automotive trouble symbols that make use of the image a key. Click here or here, right to left, for more information.

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2017/05/engine-start-system-fault-indicator/

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

Hyundai, Genesis and Kia use no less than seven 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 step back in 2021.

And if your start battery is still good, we’re going to get you going! Just follow along.

Kia/Hyun Start Style 6The 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.

EV button2021 Genesis G80 consoleThe exceptions noted are first, an EV button (far left) in Kia EVs. It is pushed just like the Start / Stop button. The second exception is the 2021 Genesis G80, which is now a Seventh Method. This method has moved to the 2022 GV60 EV as well, and may yet be placed in other 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. See the second image to the left. Then, step on the brake and push the Start / Stop ignition button to start the vehicle as normal.

Genesis charging padWe must also add an Eighth Method, which is digital. In the 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.

Kia/Hyun Start Style 1The 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.

Kia/Hyun Start Style 2The 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.

Kia/Hyun Start Style 3The 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.

Kia/Hyun Start Style 4The 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.

Kia/Hyun Start Style 5The 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 Engine Start Operation Indicatormessage 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.

… Return to Part I, Getting In

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2015/01/hyundai-and-kia-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii/

Open a Hyundai with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Hyundai with a Dead Key Fob

Hyundai flip key fobRetrieving the mechanical key

Hyundai has used a flip key key fob since 2015 and they remain in use today (2025) in some models. The mechanical key is found by pressing the chrome button on the end opposite the key ring. The mechanical key is released and remains attached to the fob.

hyundai Mechanical KeyTo use the most common Hyundai key fobs, press and hold the release button at the key ring end of the remote control or ‘clicker’ and pull the key ring to remove mechanical key. Use the key to unlock the driver’s door. They too remain in limited use today (2025).

Newer version key fobs are available that look very similar and operate in the same way, with one primary exceptions, found next.

Hyundai key fobThe exception come in the form of key fobs with the mechanical release on the back, which. Hyundai began using in 2019 (right). Push the button in order to release the mechanical key.

If a key hole is visible, use the key to unlock the driver’s door.

With the introduction of the Ionic 6 in 2022, Hyundai began 2022 Hyundai mechanical key2022 Hyundai key fobsupplying a new key fob and separate mechanical key shown to the right. This fob has spread to other models as well. To use the mechanical key, a protective cover must be removed and its handle rotated down.

In our opinion, this development is a prescription for disaster, as the mechanical keys can easily be lost or simply left behind, so by all means activate the additional unlock features described below!

Hidden Keyholes

Two Piece Door Handles

Starting with the 2014 Hyundai Genesis, (prior to the new independent Genesis line, which debuted in 2017), the manufacturer adopted the hidden keyhole Kia Keyhole Covertrick. Several other Hyundai models have been added since, namely the Santa Fe, in 2024, and Venue. These models all feature a two-piece door handle. As shown in the image to the left, press the mechanical key into the slot found under the cover at the back of the driver’s door handle (1) and pull forward and up by hand (2).

Pulling the cap while holding some upward pressure will work best. There is a black button in the slot that is being pushed up with the key in this move and the cap is immediately to move!

Hyundai hybrid door unlockA “hybrid” of this was introduced in 2020 in the Sonata. By 2024, it is found in the Elantra, Santa Cruz, and Tucson. The mechanical key is again slipped into a slot beneath the back of the door handle and pushed upwards. Now however, a small cover, seen in blue to the left, is slid to the side and out of the way. This should be done when the mechanical key is still inserted and pushed upward. The keyhole is then revealed.

2024 Kona door handleThe redesign of the Kona brings with it a new and odd door two-piece handle, as seen to the left. It still features a cap that hides the key hole, which must be removed. It looks like the others, but to get at the key hole, lift the door handle and hold it in the open position. Slip the mechanical key into the open slot in the cap from behind it and rotate the cap upwards. It will come free, exposing the key hole.

And yes one way or another you must pull a piece of your car off, but its ok! The cover will come off exposing the keyhole.

One Piece Door Handles

Santa Fe handleIn 2019, a very different hidden key hole style was introduced in the Hyundai Santa Fe (removed in 2024), the new Palisade model a year later and the Elantra in 2021. The handle for all intents and purposes is one piece, but a small piece of horizontal trim located just behind the black entry button (arrow) is removable. Pull the handle outward. This exposes another small black button just behind the handle (2, below). Look at the handle from behind to find it.

Push the button inwards using the mechanical key. This releases the trim piece that can be swung away exposing the keyhole. The key can then be turned to unlock the car. Pull the key out before opening the door to avoid damaging the door handle.

We have a video of the process on this page.

Hyundai flush handleAfterwards, the cover can be pressed back on, but your immediate concern is getting into your car.

Ionic, Ionic 5 and Ionic 6 vehicles feature a flush door handle.  A push on the front of the handle will rotate the rear part outward. Then pull the handle out as far as it will go. In all vehicles except the Nexo, the key hole is immediately visible (left). The mechanical key can be inserted and turned to unlock the vehicle.

Hyundai flush handle plugG90 key hole coverIn the Nexo, a plug protects the key hole, likely from water and debris. Use the mechanical key to pry the plug away (first image left) and then insert the key to unlock the car.

Digital Unlock Options

Genesis digital keyHyundai vehicles that include a separate mechanical key include two digital options and a facial recognition option. Digital options include a pre-registered card key and a smart phone app on a registered smart phone. The card key and app can also start the car. However, facial recognition will only open the vehicle, so the key fob, card key or smart phone app will be needed to start the car.

Place the registered smart phone or card key against the pad for two seconds to unlock the driver’s door and for four seconds to unlock all the doors.

Genesis face recognitionFacial recognition is accomplished using a camera mounted in the pillar behind the driver’s door. Again, this will only allow entry and other means will be needed to start the car, so this is of limited value.

However, given that the mechanical key is supplied separately and can be far too easily misplaced, we highly recommend following the instructions in the owner’s manual to activate both the smart phone and facial recognition features as back up entry options and to keep the card key with you at all times.

Also, check our videos for additional help.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/hyundai-and-kia-dead-fob-help/

Keyless Ignition Key Fob Detection Indicator Symbols

Fob Detection

Key Detected IndicatorKeyless system malfunctionOpen and start system indicatorKey not found indicatorThese are all variations of of Keyless Ignition Key Fob Detection indicators. A number of picture symbols are used to indicate the presence of an electronic key in a push button or, ironically,  keyless start, or keyless ignition, vehicle. These systems will allow a vehicle to be started without turning a key in an ignition switch but only when an electronic key is present in, and detected by, the vehicle.

  • Before moving on, need help getting in or started?? Click here!!
  • Also, are you sure one of these is your symbol?? If yes, then continue on below. 
  • Otherwise you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

The image seen as an open padlock with lines radiating away in yellow/amber as well as the black and white image with a padlock are used to indicate that the proper key fob has not been detected. Its internal battery may be dead or the fob is actually missing.

Many More Versions

Key Not Detected IndicatorThe flashing red Electronic Key symbol on the left indicates that the key is not detected. If the Key is in the vehicle, its internal battery is likely dead and needs to be replaced. The same Electronic Key symbol shown in green indicates that the key is found and the vehicle can be started. The last one in yellow/amber is yet another style indicating a problem. But, there’s more…

Key not found indicatorThis one, which is an image of a key with a line drawn through it in yellow/amber, indicates that the key fob is not present or is malfunctioning. So, if the key fob is present, have your dealer or a locksmith repair or replace it.

Keyless malfunctionNote that some manufacturers will have the light flash in green to indicate a weak fob battery. Thus, any time an electronic key indicator is seen to flash, consult your manual or your dealer for clarification. And the image in actuality is shown by its vehicle manufacturer when the system is in use. Nothing more.

Key Fob in Vehicle IndicatorKey Fob Battery Low IndicatorThese are Key Fob Indicator symbols and are meant to resemble the driver’s hand-held remote control, or fob. The one on the left indicates that the fob is not detected or has been removed from the vehicle. If the fob is in the vehicle, it is not detected and its battery is likely dead. The symbol to its right with the added lighting bolt indicates that the fob is detected but that the battery in the fob is low and should be replaced.

Low Fob BatteryLow Key BatteryKey battery indicatorThese symbols are Low Key Battery Indicators. The images of a key are shown above or alongside the image of what most resembles a AA or AAA battery with its level low. One adds the letter E for empty to the right. Replace the battery as soon as possible. They do NOT use AA or AAA batteries!

Fob Not DetectedIntelligent Key WarningElectronic keys, key fobs, remote controls, smart keys, intelligent keys, advanced keys are all terms used by manufacturers and drivers to describe the same device. You get to get into and start your vehicle only if the correct device is present, has a working battery and is not interfered with by other electronics (actually rare). All the images include the representation of a key and depending on the manufacturer, may include an exclamation point, a question mark or even a lightning bolt.

Similar Symbols

Engine Start System FaultSecurity Indicator SymbolDo not confuse these with other automotive trouble symbols that make use of the image a key. Click here or here, right to left, for more information.

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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.

These posts are 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.

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/03/key-fob-indicator-symbols/