Why You Should Have a Kia Spare Key
If you and a friend drive the same car, it's always good to have an extra key. It will save you a lot of frustration and aggravation.
It's easy enough to have an extra key made in the parts department. You will need to bring your original key along with an ID card. The dealer must program the new key.
Lost Keys
You will need to replace your Kia keys if you lose it. You can visit a dealership or an authorized locksmith in your area. You can save money by choosing to replace your keys through a locksmith. Dealerships charge a significant amount for their services, however locksmiths compete with one another and offer cheaper prices.
You can also save money by purchasing a spare key on the internet. You will save even more if you purchase a reusable, non-programmable key. You can also purchase an extra key from the local hardware store.
A transponder chip can be a useful feature to include in your Kia key. It helps to prevent theft by preventing thieves to get your vehicle started. The transponder chip sends an individual code to the dashboard receiver of the car. The engine won't start when the code isn't recognised. If you lose your keys, try to locate the chip to obtain an alternative.
In some instances, the ignition cylinder may require replacement more than just the key. This is usually the situation with older Kia cars that have an ignition cylinder with a key. In these instances you won't be able to purchase a key from a dealer and you will need to change the ignition.
Lockout
It can be very frustrating to be locked out especially at the wrong time. There are ways to get out of the situation. The first step is to contact a locksmith who specializes in Kia keys. They can help you out in a flash and also provide mobile service.
If your car has an older keyed ignition, a locksmith could make you a metal key which can be used to open and lock the doors manually. This is less expensive than buying a new Kia key fob. It is also possible to use this key to start your car assuming that you don't have a push-button ignition system.
Some car makers offer a remote unlocking service that allows you to unlock your vehicle if you don't have the key in the ignition, or when the doors are closed. However, you should check with the manufacturer before using this service. It is also recommended to use this service only if you're in a safe area.
A locksmith that specializes in Kia automobiles is another alternative. If your key is damaged or lost, they can help you access your vehicle. Moreover, they can replace the key fob, in the event that it is needed. Additionally, they are able to program the new key to your vehicle. They can also help to identify if the key fob battery is dead.
Broken Keys
Modern Kias have sophisticated electronic systems designed to deter car thieves. They come with transponders and immobilizers that stop your car from starting unless the correct key is used to activate them. The good news is that an expert locksmith can modify your Kia to accept new keys and block out the old keys. This can help you avoid the time and expense of getting your car towed to the dealership.
Despite their high-tech features, these new remote control car keys are just as susceptible to breaking as their older metal grandfathers. They are susceptible to being dropped and handled improperly, which can result in them becoming brittle, or even losing the key fob's chip. The new Kia keyfobs are less expensive than their older counterparts. This makes it simpler to replace yours if it does break.
You can purchase a Kia key case at any Kia dealer, or even online. This isn't a replacement key fob for the broken one, since it doesn't contain the chip. To replace the Kia's key fob you must consult an expert locksmith.
First, remove the ignition key. If the head is not damaged it is possible to slide an extremely stiff and thin wire between its sides to pull it out. Paperclips are ideal to do this, as they are small enough to fit into the lock. If G28 is difficult to grasp, try bending its ends a bit downward to increase the surface area of contact with the broken key fragment.
Transponder Chip
The latest Kia cars are equipped with a second security measure known as transponders. These chips are embedded into the head of the car's plastic keys and transmit a unique number that is used to identify the vehicle when activated. The immobilizer will not allow you to start the engine or the ignition without this unique code.
When you insert your key into the ignition, the dashboard transmitter sends a low level radio signal to the chip transponder, that has a unique digital serial number. The chip then sends a signal to the dashboard receiver which allows you to start your car. This process is similar to the way military planes use codes to distinguish themselves from radar screens.
This technology makes it much more difficult for thieves to steal your car, as keys only work when they're properly programmed. You can purchase a new transponder key from a dealer or auto locksmith.
However, you must be aware that the dealerships will charge a lot more than a locksmith, so it's best to go with an expert locksmith to replace your key. Locksmiths can cut you a new key and may also be able to program keys for start, lock, or unlock commands. You can also buy the key fob that comes with these features from your dealer.