It’s a familiar scenario for many Kia Soul owners: you reach for your key fob, press a button, and nothing happens. A dead key fob battery can be a minor inconvenience, but it doesn’t have to leave you stranded. This guide will walk you through how to handle a dead Kia Soul key fob battery and, more importantly, how to replace it yourself.
Recognizing a Dead Key Fob Battery
Before assuming the worst, it’s important to recognize the signs of a dying key fob battery. Typically, you’ll notice a decrease in range – you need to be closer to your Kia Soul for the fob to work. Eventually, it might become intermittent, working sometimes and not others. Finally, it will stop working altogether. Don’t confuse this with a dead car battery, which will prevent the car from starting even with a working key fob.
Emergency Starting Methods When Your Key Fob Battery Dies
Even with a dead key fob battery, you can still start your Kia Soul. There are a couple of methods Kia provides:
Using the Key Fob Port in the Glove Box
Your Kia Soul is equipped with a backup system. Open your glove box and locate the key fob port inside. It’s designed to communicate with your key fob even if the battery is dead. Simply insert your Kia Soul key fob into this port. Ensure the metal contacts on the bottom of your key fob are facing correctly to make contact within the port. Once inserted and clicked into place, your car should recognize the key, allowing you to start the engine as usual. Think of this port as a direct line of communication, similar to an SD card slot for your car key.
Touch Start Method for Newer Models
Some newer Kia Soul models offer an even simpler method. If you can’t locate a glove box port or have a newer model, try the touch start method. Take your key fob and touch it directly to the engine start/stop button. While holding it there, press and hold the start button for a few seconds. This method utilizes a low-frequency RFID exciter technology to communicate with the car, even with a depleted key fob battery.
Replacing Your Kia Soul Key Fob Battery
While these emergency methods are helpful in a pinch, replacing the key fob battery is the permanent solution. You’ll need a small flathead screwdriver and a CR2032 button cell battery – a widely available and inexpensive battery type.
- Locate the notch: Examine your Kia Soul key fob. You’ll find a small notch, usually on the side or bottom of the fob.
- Open the fob: Carefully insert the flathead screwdriver into the notch and gently twist. This should pry the key fob open.
- Remove the old battery: Once open, you’ll see the old CR2032 battery. Take note of its orientation (+ side up) and carefully remove it.
- Insert new battery: Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the + side is facing upwards, matching the orientation of the old battery.
- Close the fob: Snap the key fob case back together until it clicks securely.
With a fresh battery, your Kia Soul key fob should be back to working perfectly. Consult your Kia Soul owner’s manual for specific instructions and diagrams related to your model year for any variations. Replacing your Kia Soul key fob battery is a simple task you can easily handle yourself, ensuring you’re never caught out by a dead key fob again.
