More of a PSA for KIA owners that the remotes off Ebay are fine and you don't need to take them to a KIA dealer for programming. Bought two remotes from Ebay for $100. They were touted as original electronics whose previous program was wiped clean and then put in a new aftermarket case. I was more comfortable with this than the Chinese clones at half the price, but now that I see how easy they are to program, I might try those next. For programming you just need a mid-level scan tool any shop or advanced DIY'er would have, and a PIN code for the car. I went to two KIA dealers, both the parts and service departments asking for the PIN code, and they had no idea what I was talking about. The service department said they have to connect the car to their computer for that and they could program the key for $120. No thanks. The PIN is based on the car's VIN, so Ebay to the rescue again. There are multiple listings for key code services and I found someone from Egypt for $11. You don't need any federal locksmith license either like some have said. With the PIN code and my scan tool I got both keys programmed in 5 minutes. You will also have to cut the metal key but I also have an Ebay laser key cutting machine so it didn't cost anything for that.
So if you have a friend with a scan tool or your car is in the shop for anything requiring a scan tool hookup, it shouldn't cost much or anything to get it done. Plus cutting the metal keys is optional and assume you already at least one of those.
So if you have a friend with a scan tool or your car is in the shop for anything requiring a scan tool hookup, it shouldn't cost much or anything to get it done. Plus cutting the metal keys is optional and assume you already at least one of those.