Tag: remote control

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 …

——————————————————————-

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/

Start a Jeep with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Jeep with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Jeep

In Jeep vehicles built prior to 2009 and using the rectangular-tipped key, the Engine Start / Stop button must be removed from the ignition switch for key fob use. With the ignition in the Lock position, insert the metal part of the emergency key (or a finger nail!) under the chrome button (above right) and gently pry the button loose. It comes away very easily. Note that the button itself appears to float Chrysler key slotjust above the dash.

Insert the rectangular tip of the key fob into the exposed ignition switch slot and turn the key to start and operate.

For models built after 2010 using the rounded key fob, place the “nose” side (side opposite of the mechanical key – its very sensitive to this) of the Key Fob against the Start / Stop ignition button (right) and push to operate the ignition switch.

Chrysler Emergency Start TwoDo NOT try to remove this button! We have actually seen an owners manual citing the older key and button. Do NOT remove the flush button. Simply press the button with the nose of the key fob!

We have several videos here that will help.

Use Brake IndicatorNote: 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.

——————————————————————-

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/2023/10/jeep-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii-getting-started/

Open a Jeep with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Jeep with a Dead Key Fob

Getting into Your Jeep Vehicle

Chrysler Key FobRetrieving the mechanical key

To remove the emergency (mechanical) key from a key fob belonging to early Jeep vehicle, slide the mechanical latch at the top of the back of the Key Fob (remote control or ‘clicker’) to the side and then pull the mechanical key out with your free hand.

Chrysler Key FobTwoThe Key Fobs used in models built after 2010 are sleeker and rounded (see the image to the right) but work the same way. Slide the mechanical latch at the top of the back of the Fob to the side and pull the emergency key out with your free hand.

Getting Inside

In all these models, a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door. Simply insert the mechanical key and turn and you’re in.

——————————————————————-

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/2023/10/jeep-dead-key-fob-help-part-i-getting-in/

Start a Fiat with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Fiat with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Fiat

Chrysler Emergency Start TwoFiat models built after 2010 use the rounded key fob shown in the image. Place the “nose” side (side opposite of the mechanical key – its very sensitive to this) of the Key Fob against the Start / Stop ignition button (right) and push to operate the ignition switch.

Do NOT try to remove this button! We have actually seen an owners manual citing an older key and button. Do NOT remove the flush button. Simply press the button with the nose of the key fob!

We have a video here that will help.

Use Brake IndicatorNote: 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.

——————————————————————-

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/2023/10/fiat-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii-getting-started/

Open a Fiat with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Fiat with a Dead Key Fob

Getting into Your Fiat

Retrieving the mechanical key

Chrysler Key FobTwoThe Key Fobs used in Fiat models built after 2010 are sleek and rounded (see the image to the right). Slide the mechanical latch at the top of the back of the Fob to the side and pull the emergency key out with your free hand.

Getting Inside

In the vast majority of Fiat models, a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door. Simply insert the mechanical key and turn and you’re in.

Fiat 500 capIn 2023, the Fiat 500X will be hiding its keyhole behind a small cap in the handle recess (see image). The cap is easily removed with a fingernail, using the access hole shown to the right. Once removed the use the mechanical key in the keyhole to unlock the door, and you’ll be inside.

——————————————————————-

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/2023/10/fiat-dead-key-fob-help-part-i-getting-in/

Start a Wagoneer with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Wagoneer with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Wagoneer

Chrysler Emergency Start TwoStarting the new Wagoneer line of vehicles, place the “nose” side (side opposite of the mechanical key – its very sensitive to this) of the Key Fob against the Start / Stop ignition button (right) and push to operate the ignition switch.

We have a video here that will help.

Use Brake IndicatorNote: 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.

——————————————————————-

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/2023/10/wagoneer-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii-getting-started/

Open a Wagoneer with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Wagoneer with a Dead Key Fob

Getting into Your Wagoneer

Retrieving the mechanical key

Ram key fobTo remove the emergency (mechanical) key from the key fob in new Wagoneer models look for a chrome button on the side, as denoted by the bottom arrow. Push it and pull on the key ring end, and the mechanical key is removed.

Getting Inside

Wagoneer key holeNew Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models have their key holes hiding behind the driver’s door handle, as can be seen in the image to the right. It is exposed when the door handle is pulled to the open position. So, simply pull the door handle out as far as possible. Insert the mechanical key (it may be awkward to get at) and turn it to unlock. Remove the key blade and release the handle. Pull the handle once again and you are in the car.

——————————————————————-

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/2023/10/wagoneer-dead-key-fob-help-part-i-getting-in/