Kia Picanto: Opening and closing / Immobiliser system: (if equipped)

Your Kia Picanto may be fitted with an electronic engine immobiliser designed to reduce the risk of unauthorised vehicle use. The system checks the key’s identity before allowing the engine to start.

The immobiliser consists of a small transponder built into the ignition key and electronic components installed inside the vehicle. These components work together to establish whether the key is valid for your vehicle.

Vehicles without smart key system

Each time you insert the ignition key into the ignition switch and turn it to ON, the immobiliser checks the key’s transponder to verify that it is authorised for the vehicle.

If the key is recognised as valid, the immobiliser permits the engine to be started using the normal starting procedure.

If the key is not recognised as valid, the immobiliser prevents the engine from starting.

To deactivate the immobiliser system:

Insert the correct ignition key into the ignition cylinder and turn it to the ON position. The system verifies the key before permitting engine starting.

To activate the immobiliser system:

Turn the ignition key to OFF. The immobiliser activates automatically, preventing the engine from being started without a valid ignition key for your Kia Picanto.

Vehicles with smart key system

Whenever the ENGINE START/STOP button is switched to the ON position, the immobiliser verifies whether the smart key is valid for the vehicle.

If the smart key is recognised as valid, the immobiliser allows the engine to be started using the normal starting procedure.

If the smart key is not recognised as valid, the engine cannot be started.

To deactivate the immobiliser system:

Switch the ENGINE START/STOP button to ON with a valid smart key available for verification.

To activate the immobiliser system:

Switch the ENGINE START/STOP button to OFF. The immobiliser activates automatically. The engine will remain protected against starting without a valid smart key registered to the vehicle.

WARNING

To help prevent vehicle theft, never leave spare keys anywhere inside the vehicle. Your immobiliser password is unique to you and must remain confidential. Store it securely away from the vehicle, and do not leave a written or otherwise accessible record of the number inside the car.

NOTE

Keep other immobiliser keys away from the key being used to start the engine. Nearby transponders can interfere with key recognition, preventing the engine from starting or causing it to stop shortly after starting. Separate the keys before attempting to start the vehicle.

CAUTION

Do not place metal accessories close to the ignition switch. These objects can interrupt communication with the key’s transponder and may prevent the immobiliser from recognising the key, leaving the engine unable to start.

NOTE

If you require additional keys or lose an existing key, Kia recommends visiting an authorised Kia dealer or service partner for assistance with the appropriate replacement arrangements.

CAUTION

The transponder inside the ignition key is an essential part of the immobiliser system. Although it is designed to provide years of reliable service, exposure to moisture, static electricity or rough handling can damage it and cause an immobiliser malfunction. Handle the key carefully to protect its electronic components.

CAUTION

• Do not change, alter or adjust the immobiliser system. Such work can interfere with its operation and cause a malfunction. If the system requires attention, have it serviced by a professional workshop; Kia recommends an authorised Kia dealer or service partner.

• The manufacturer’s vehicle warranty does not cover immobiliser malfunctions caused by improper alterations, adjustments or modifications. Work that changes the system’s original configuration can therefore affect both its reliability and the applicable warranty coverage.

• Do not attempt to modify the immobiliser or connect additional devices to it. Interference with the system can cause electrical problems severe enough to make the vehicle inoperable.