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2024 Kia Telluride Key Fob Not Working? Quick Fixes & Next Steps (US)

If your 2024 Kia Telluride key fob suddenly won’t lock/unlock or the vehicle won’t recognize it for push-button start, the cause is usually a weak fob battery, interference, or a fob/vehicle communication issue. The good news: there are safe, quick checks you can do before paying for service.

Understanding Your Situation

The Telluride uses a smart key (remote + proximity transponder). When the fob battery is low, the vehicle may not detect the fob reliably, buttons may stop responding, and push-button start may show a “Key not detected” style warning—especially in cold weather or after the fob has been dropped or exposed to moisture.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Try the spare key fob first (if available). If the spare works, the problem is likely the original fob (battery, damage, or internal failure).
  2. Replace the key fob battery with a new, name-brand coin cell (commonly CR2032 on many Kia smart keys; confirm the exact type printed on your old battery). Make sure the battery is oriented correctly and the fob case is fully snapped shut.
  3. If the car won’t start, use the backup start method: hold the fob directly against/next to the START/STOP button and press the brake, then press START. This allows the vehicle to read the fob even when the fob battery is weak (method may vary slightly by trim; see the owner’s manual for the exact procedure).

Your Options

DIY battery replacement (most common fix)

Cost: $3-$10 Time: Same day

Open the fob case carefully, replace the coin-cell battery with the correct type, and re-test lock/unlock and push-button start from multiple distances.

✓ Pros:
  • Lowest cost and fastest
  • Fixes the majority of sudden fob failures
✗ Cons:
  • Wrong battery type or poor contact can make symptoms worse
  • Risk of damaging the fob housing if pried incorrectly

Use the mechanical key + backup start method (temporary workaround)

Cost: $0 Time: Same day

Use the hidden mechanical key inside the fob to unlock the driver door, then use the emergency/backup start procedure to start the vehicle if the smart key isn’t detected.

✓ Pros:
  • Gets you moving without parts or waiting
  • Useful while you obtain a battery or schedule service
✗ Cons:
  • Alarm may sound when unlocking manually on some vehicles
  • Doesn’t solve underlying fob or vehicle issue

Professional key fob testing and battery/contact service

Cost: $0-$60 Time: Same day

A dealership or qualified automotive locksmith tests fob output, checks for water damage, verifies the correct battery, and inspects/cleans battery contacts if needed.

✓ Pros:
  • Quick diagnosis without guesswork
  • Can confirm whether the fob is failing vs. a vehicle-side issue
✗ Cons:
  • May require a visit during business hours
  • Some shops charge a diagnostic fee

Replace and program a new OEM smart key (if fob is dead/damaged)

Cost: $250-$550 Time: Same day / 1-3 days (if ordered)

Purchase a new OEM Kia smart key and have it programmed to the vehicle. The old fob can often be removed from the vehicle’s memory for security.

✓ Pros:
  • Most reliable long-term fix if the fob has failed
  • Restores full remote + proximity functions
✗ Cons:
  • Higher cost than a battery
  • May require proof of ownership and dealer/locksmith equipment

Diagnose vehicle-side issue (receiver, antenna, BCM, or 12V battery)

Cost: $0-$200 diagnostic; repairs vary ($150-$1,200+) Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If both fobs fail or the car intermittently detects keys, the issue may be the vehicle’s 12V battery, smart key antennas/receiver, wiring, or a control module. A scan tool and electrical testing may be required.

✓ Pros:
  • Addresses root cause when it’s not the fob
  • Prevents repeat failures and no-start events
✗ Cons:
  • Costs vary widely depending on findings
  • May require leaving the vehicle for testing

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t repeatedly press the START/STOP button without following the backup start procedure—this can drain the vehicle’s 12V battery and leave you stranded.

✕ Don’t use off-brand or used coin-cell batteries, and don’t touch both sides of the new battery with greasy fingers—poor contact can mimic a bad fob.

✕ Don’t pry the fob open with excessive force or metal tools that can crack the case, damage the circuit board, or short components.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming key is broken
  • Not checking battery first
  • Calling tow truck immediately
  • Replacing when reprogramming needed

Frequently Asked Questions

My 2024 Telluride says the key isn’t detected. Is the fob dead?

Not always. A weak fob battery is the most common cause, but interference (near radio transmitters), a low vehicle 12V battery, or a failing fob can cause the same message. Try the spare fob and the backup start method (hold the fob to the START/STOP button).

If the fob battery is dead, can I still unlock and drive?

Usually yes. You can unlock the driver door with the mechanical key inside the fob, then use the emergency/backup start procedure to start the vehicle. Replace the fob battery as soon as possible to restore normal operation.

Do I need to reprogram the key fob after changing the battery?

Typically no. A battery change should not erase programming on Kia smart keys. If the fob still doesn’t work after a correct battery replacement, the fob may be damaged or the vehicle may have a receiver/antenna/12V battery issue.

Why do both key fobs stop working at the same time?

If both fobs fail simultaneously, it’s less likely to be two dead fob batteries at once and more likely to be a vehicle-side issue (low 12V battery, smart key receiver/antenna problem, blown fuse, or module issue) or strong RF interference in the area.

Can a locksmith program a 2024 Telluride smart key, or do I need the dealer?

Many automotive locksmiths can program late-model Kia smart keys, but capabilities vary by equipment and region. Dealers can always handle OEM keys. Expect proof of ownership either way.

Is it safe to buy a cheap key fob online?

Be cautious. Some aftermarket fobs are unreliable, may not support all functions, or may not be programmable to your vehicle. For best compatibility on a 2024 Telluride, an OEM key sourced through a dealer or reputable supplier is usually the safest choice.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If the vehicle won’t detect the key and you’re away from home, prioritize preserving the 12V battery (avoid repeated start attempts) and use the mechanical key + backup start method. If the car intermittently won’t start or both fobs fail, schedule diagnosis soon to avoid a no-start situation.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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Last updated: 2026-01-04