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Need a Spare Key for a 2024 Kia K5? Best Options, Costs & Timing (US)

If you only have one working key for your 2024 Kia K5, getting a spare now can prevent a costly, stressful lockout later. The K5 uses an immobilizer system, so a new key must be cut and programmed to start the car. Your best choice depends on whether your K5 uses a smart key (push-button start) or a traditional transponder key (turn-key).

Understanding Your Situation

You want an extra working key/fob for your 2024 Kia K5 for backup, a second driver, or peace of mind—before the original is lost or damaged.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm which system you have: push-button start (smart key fob) vs turn-key ignition (transponder key). Check your trim, ignition type, and owner’s manual.
  2. Gather essentials: VIN, vehicle registration, and a government-issued ID. If available, bring all existing keys/fobs to the appointment.
  3. Decide where to order: Kia dealer (OEM parts) or an automotive locksmith (often faster/cheaper). Ask for an all-in quote that includes cutting + programming.

Your Options

Kia Dealer (OEM key/fob + programming)

Cost: $250-$650 Time: Same day to 3-7 days (if parts must be ordered)

The dealer orders the correct OEM key/fob by VIN (or confirms the correct part), cuts the emergency key (if applicable), and programs it to your K5’s immobilizer system using factory tools.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM key/fob matched to your VIN and vehicle configuration
  • Highest compatibility and typically the smoothest programming process
âś— Cons:
  • Often the most expensive route
  • May require an appointment and waiting for parts/shipping

Automotive Locksmith (mobile key cutting + programming)

Cost: $180-$500 Time: Same day (often within a few hours) to 1-3 days

A qualified automotive locksmith supplies a compatible key/fob, cuts the blade (or emergency key), and programs it on-site. Many can come to your location.

âś“ Pros:
  • Usually cheaper than the dealer and can be faster
  • Convenient mobile service (home/work)
âś— Cons:
  • Quality varies—must use a reputable, licensed locksmith with Kia-capable programming equipment
  • Some aftermarket fobs may have shorter range or less consistent performance than OEM

Buy a key/fob online, then pay for cutting + programming

Cost: $150-$550 Time: 2-10 days (shipping + appointment)

You purchase a fob/key (OEM or aftermarket) online and then hire a dealer or locksmith to cut and program it. The emergency key blade may also need cutting.

âś“ Pros:
  • Potential savings if you source a correctly matched OEM part number
  • More choice on price and availability
âś— Cons:
  • High risk of buying the wrong part or an incompatible/locked/used fob
  • Some dealers/locksmiths won’t program customer-supplied parts or may not warranty the work

Add a spare mechanical emergency key (smart key vehicles)

Cost: $20-$80 Time: Same day

If your K5 is push-button start, you may have (or can add) a mechanical emergency key blade that unlocks the driver door if the fob battery dies. This does not start the vehicle by itself unless your K5 has a mechanical ignition (most smart-key setups do not).

âś“ Pros:
  • Cheap backup for door access if the fob battery fails
  • Quick to get cut at a dealer or locksmith
âś— Cons:
  • Won’t replace a programmed smart key for starting/driving
  • Still need a programmed fob for full functionality

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Waiting until you’ve lost your only working key—spare creation is usually faster and cheaper when at least one working key is available.

âś• Buying used key fobs from unknown sources (auction sites/marketplaces). Many are already paired to another vehicle, blacklisted, or not programmable to your K5.

✕ Using a hardware store kiosk or generic key shop for anything beyond a simple metal key—your K5 typically requires immobilizer programming for a start-capable key.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until emergency
  • Not testing spare immediately
  • Buying incompatible aftermarket
  • Overpaying at dealership

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I program a spare key/fob for a 2024 Kia K5 myself?

Usually no. Most 2024 Kia K5 keys/fobs require immobilizer programming with professional equipment (dealer-level tools or an automotive locksmith’s programmer). Basic remote “sync” steps are not the same as immobilizer programming.

Do I need to bring the car in to get a spare key made?

In most cases, yes—either the vehicle must be present for programming, or a mobile locksmith will program it at your location. Cutting the emergency key blade may be possible without the car, but a start-capable key/fob typically must be programmed to the vehicle.

What info will I need to get a spare key for my K5?

Expect to provide your VIN, proof of ownership (registration/title), and a government-issued ID. Some providers also want the vehicle present and all existing keys/fobs for programming.

Is an aftermarket key fob safe to use?

It can be, if it’s the correct frequency/part type and comes from a reputable supplier. However, OEM fobs tend to be more consistent in range and durability. Avoid used fobs unless a trusted professional confirms they are reprogrammable for your vehicle.

If I have one working key now, will making a spare be cheaper?

Often yes. When at least one working key is available, programming is typically simpler. If all keys are lost, the process can be more involved and more expensive.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Moderate urgency: if you’re down to one working key, get a spare soon. If that key is lost or damaged, you may face higher costs, towing, and longer downtime to regain access and start the vehicle.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Kia K5.

View K5 Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04