Losing or damaging your key fob can be a real headache, especially when you find out the dealership’s price for a replacement. If you own a 2012 Kia Soul and need a new key fob, you’re likely looking for the most cost-effective options. Getting a 2012 Kia Soul Replacement Key Fob doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s a breakdown of how to save money and get back on the road.
One smart alternative is to explore the used key fob market online, specifically on platforms like eBay. You can often find a used 2012 Kia Soul replacement key fob for a fraction of the dealership cost. Alongside this, you’ll need a blank key insert. While dealerships charge a premium for these blanks, you can also source these from eBay at a much lower price.
Once you have both a used fob and a blank insert, the next step involves professional services. A locksmith can expertly cut the blank key insert to match your vehicle’s ignition. Afterward, you’ll need to visit a Kia dealership to program the remote functions of the fob. Keep in mind that dealerships usually require all working fobs to be present during programming, as they will reprogram all fobs to ensure they work correctly with your 2012 Kia Soul. Dealerships often require proof of ownership, like your vehicle title or registration, before they will program a key or cut a blank insert, so be sure to bring the necessary documentation.
This route can significantly cut down your expenses. For instance, while a complete dealership replacement, including the fob, blank insert, cutting, and programming, can easily reach $300-$350 or more, utilizing a used fob and a locksmith can bring the total cost down to around $110-$150. The cost savings are substantial, especially considering that a dealership might charge upwards of $200 just for the fob itself, plus additional costs for the blank, cutting, and programming.
If you only need a basic key to open your car and your 2012 Kia Soul doesn’t have a chipped key system, you have an even simpler and cheaper option. You can purchase a blank Kia key from online marketplaces for a minimal cost and have a locksmith cut it. This method can be incredibly inexpensive, potentially costing you under $20. However, this only works if your car doesn’t rely on a chipped key for ignition. If your Soul does have a chipped key (transponder key), you will need to go the key fob route to start your vehicle.
Finally, a crucial piece of advice when buying a used 2012 Kia Soul replacement key fob: be aware of variations. Even with identical part numbers and FCC IDs, there are two versions of fobs with different key shanks or blank inserts. These inserts are not interchangeable. For example, a 2012 Soul might use a different style from a slightly newer model like a 2013, even if the fobs appear the same externally. Ensure you are getting the correct fob type to avoid compatibility issues with your key insert.
In conclusion, replacing your 2012 Kia Soul key fob doesn’t have to be an exorbitant expense. By considering used fobs, locksmith services, and being mindful of key variations, you can find a much more affordable solution to get your replacement key fob and get back to driving with peace of mind.
