A Kia key fob is a small piece of technology that provides convenience, security, and peace of mind with the touch of a button. This tiny remote control can help you lock and unlock your Kia remotely, trigger the car alarm, and open and close your vehicle’s rear cargo area for easy access. But what happens when the key fob battery runs low or you misplace the key fob altogether? Tom Kadlec Kia is here to answer these questions and more with this helpful guide.
Your Kia Key Fob Guide
The first step in determining what kind of service your key fob needs is to know what kind of key fob you have. There are five types of key fobs:
- Standard remote: A basic remote with no special features.
- Flip key: A standard remote with an attached key that flips outward with the push of a button.
- Remote head: This key fob has a key blade sticking out of the tip that does not retract or hide.
- Fob integrated key (FOBIK): A FOBIK has a square-shaped head that plugs into the dash to turn on your Kia’s ignition. It has an emergency key hidden inside.
- Smart key: This fob key type is commonly linked to push-to-start Kias and has an emergency key hidden inside.
How To Change the Battery in Kia Key Fobs
Is your Kia key fob unresponsive, no matter how hard you press the button? Or does it only work when you stand right next to your Kia? The battery is likely dying and needs replacing to restore its functionality. Fortunately, key fob batteries are inexpensive and easy to replace.
Kia key fobs typically use a CR2032, CR2016, or 23-amp/12-volt battery. Contact our parts department for the correct battery based on your Kia’s year and model. Once you have the battery, you can open the key fob to replace it.
How To Open and Replace the Battery in a Standard Kia Key Fob
If you have a standard remote, grab a flathead screwdriver, and follow these steps to open the key fob and replace the battery:
- Lay the Kia key fob on a flat surface with the backside facing up, and locate the slot on the side.
- Insert the tip of the flathead screwdriver into the slot on the side, and pry the key fob open.
- Remove the old battery, and install the new one.
- Replace the key fob cover, and snap it back into place to close it.
How To Open and Replace the Battery in a Smart Kia Key Fob
If you have a smart key fob, you won’t need to use any tools. Follow these steps to open it and replace the battery:
- Remove the mechanical key from inside the Kia key fob by pressing the small button located at the bottom.
- Locate the slot on the bottom of the key fob, insert the mechanical key into the slot, and twist the key to open the fob.
- Remove the old battery, and replace it with a new one.
- Replace the key fob cover and the mechanical key where they belong.
Once you replace the battery on the standard or smart remote, test your key fob’s functionality by pressing its buttons. If the buttons don’t function, try adjusting the battery or wiping the connections clean for better contact. If the key fob still isn’t responding with a new battery, the key fob itself likely needs replacing.
Where Can You Purchase a New Kia Key Fob Battery?
The best place to purchase a new Kia key fob battery is from a trusted Kia dealership. Doing so ensures compatibility with your Kia’s model and year and gets you top-quality parts for long-lasting durability. Contact one of our specialists at Tom Kadlec Kia at 507-361-2701 for quality Kia parts in Rochester, Minnesota. When you order genuine Kia parts from us, you get a precision fit, authentic quality, and proven performance. If you need to replace the entire key fob, we’ll immediately set you up with a replacement.
How To Start a Kia Without a Key Fob
Don’t worry if you accidentally lock your keys in your Kia. Newer models feature the available Kia Connect technology, which pairs with your smartphone for remote access to your vehicle. With the Kia Connect app, you can unlock or lock your Kia remotely and get your keys back.
If you’ve misplaced your car keys, you may be lucky if your Kia is compatible with the Kia Digital Key. Depending on your Kia’s year and model, you can start without a key fob using this technology that turns your smartphone or smartwatch into a key. You can start your car without a key fob and drive by accessing the Kia Digital Key 2 Touch. This technology is only available on select trims and is compatible with specific smart devices.
How Much Is It To Replace a Kia Key Fob?
In the unfortunate situation that you need to replace a misplaced or damaged key fob, Tom Kadlec Kia can assist you in getting a replacement. The cost varies depending on the key fob type and your Kia’s model and year. A basic key replacement can cost below $50, and a smart key replacement can cost between $200 and $500. Ask about our parts specials to help you get the best deal on a replacement key fob in Rochester, Minnesota.
How To Program a Kia Key Fob
Once you have a replacement Kia key fob, you must program it to work with your Kia. Depending on the key fob type, you may be able to program it yourself by following these simple steps:
- Close your Kia’s doors and insert the key into the ignition.
- Turn the key in the ignition on and off repeatedly until the doors lock. End this step with the key and ignition turned in the on position.
- Press the lock or unlock button on the Kia key fob. If the doors respond correctly, the key fob is successfully programmed.
- Turn the ignition off. The doors should unlock, indicating the programming mode is complete.
If this Kia key fob programming trick does not work, you may need a professional to program it.
Service Your Kia Key Fob at Tom Kadlec Kia
Bring your Kia key fob to our Tom Kadlec Kia service department for professional servicing from our automotive experts. Our service technicians are committed to providing excellent customer service and quick repair times so you can get back to enjoying your Kia. Schedule an appointment online to get your Kia key fob serviced today.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.