limp home mode +

[charlie horse]

just wondering anyone know where to get the code to program the ignition if the security system shuts car off . according to the manual there is a code you enter by turning the key from ON to ACC a certain mumber of times I asked the dealer about this and they didn't know what I was talking about . any one know about it ? Thanks in advance .

[conwelpic]

I brought up that point to my salesman and he said to use the numbers in the manual, he wasn't aware of any others.

[charlie horse]

Originally Posted by conwelpic

I brought up that point to my salesman and he said to use the numbers in the manual, he wasn't aware of any others.

mine told me the only code they knew of was the one to make a new key when you look in the manual they use the code 2345 as an example to show what to do . they are still looking for an answer ......

[AllaTurca]

I was also concerned about this issue and wrote to Kia since what the dealer told me didn't make sense in relation to what is in the Owner's Manual ( it is written rather poorly!). The response from Kia shown below wasn't much help either and also written pretty badly as well.

"All Kia Vehicles have an immobilizer password; it is a six digit PIN number. This PIN number is held with Kia Canada INC secure database, it can not be accessed by anyone except by Kia employees for security reasons. The PIN number can not be changed. This is a PIN code that is in the immobilizer system and in you’re key. Whenever you insert your ignition key into the ignition switch and turn it to ON, it checks, determines and verifies if the ignition key is valid or not. If the key PIN code does not match the code of the immobilizer system the engine of your vehicle will not start. The Limp Home Procedures password is “2345” it is used when the immobilizer system fails. If the limp home procedure does not work, you will need to get the vehicle to a KIA dealer. and also can not be changed. This procedure is for when you turn the ignition switch to the ON position, if the immobilizer indicator (in the dash) goes off after blinking 5 times and does not stay on. Your transponder is built into the ignition key. is out of order. This is when you will need the limp home password which is “2345”. "

[charlie horse]

And around we go again starting to sound like we are not asking the right question or they are not giving the right answer . if the PIN number is a big secret why even tell anyone about it LOL

[AllaTurca]

Exactly my opinion.

[Steve A]

I would imagine the "Pin Number" refers to the key code and the 2345 is an overide code for the "limp home mode" - two seperate things.

[NW Cruzer]

Is anyone going to be "brave enough" to try the limp home code and see if it works? And then tell us how they did it!

Don

[kiatechLI]

let me explain the immobilizer system, It consist of a pin code that is unique to each individual car. When you Purchase the car both keys are already programed, if you want a third key you have to get the third key programed along with the rest of the keys. If you program one it erases the other two, you need to program them one after the other. As far as the limp mode goes, the only way to input the pin for limp mode is via GDS kia scanner. Not sure why that information would be in the owners manual.

[bdesmp]

I’ve tried to enter the password to engage the limp home capability of my 2004 EX Sorento.

This is what occurred:

- vehicle running and starting properly;
- (5 days ago) attached a utility trailer (4 pin wiring harness – dealer installed), turned key to ON to test trailer lights;
- no trailer lights;
- checked all fuses, they are OK;
- attempted to start Sorento (trailer was not attached) – turns over but does not start;
- read manual Page 3-4 item #1;
- turned key to ON, the IMMO indicator blinks 6 times and remains on;
- I don’t have a password (I’m the original owner and the dealer never gave me one);
- Tired the sample password “2345” just in case it works;
- Engine does not start, obviously password is not correct – I tried a few times, being very careful to follow proper instructions;
- Called KIA dealer (#1) and was told to switch fuses between #22(Meter 10A) and #23(Trailer 15A), they said this is a know problem and this is the solution;
- Switched fuses – tried to start vehicle – would not start;
- Replaced fuses with spares (in engine compartment) – same results;
- Towed to nearest KIA dealer (#2) (took 1½ hours);
- They said the fuses were switched, they switched them back and it started!
- The IMMO blinked 6 times and now does not stay on (i.e. operating properly)!!!
- Took vehicle into dealer (#1) – they looked at it and said it starts and is fine – they did not do anything – they said that the trailer wiring is faulty;
- Dealer did a check on the wiring harness (between the connector beside the spare and the 4 pin trailer connector) and said it was shorted (no current getting through) and I need a new one (part = $50, labor = $50) – I declined at these costs;
- I asked about the password and why it didn’t work – first they said there is no such procedure, then I showed them the manual and then they said that they have tried it before and have had a number of problems with vehicles after trying it, and you need the ID key to accomplish it ( I was pretty confused at this point and after more discussions, dropped it altogether) – thay gave me KIA’s number to call and get more information;
- Drove vehicle home no problems;
- I checked the 4 pin connector with a 12 volt tester and all the pins are working properly!
- Haven’t plugged the trailer in as I couldn’t bring it back (50 miles away) as the vehicle was towed (see above);
- I called KIA and they said that the selling dealer might have put the password in the system, and I’d have to contact them for the code.

So the “2345” password didn’t work for me and I have no other password to try – in case this happens again – hopefully the selling dealership has it…..