View CartA blog reader sent us an inquiry. His son bought a used 2001 Kia Sportage. It came with no remote key fobs, but when he unlocks the driver-side door, an alarm sounds until he puts the key in the ignition.
Here is our response to that customer:
2001 Sportage vehicles were not equipped with a factory keyless entry system. Instead, an optional system (with a Kia brand but made by Code Alarm) was installed at the port-of-entry or by a dealership. It is possible that your son’s vehicle has that system on it. It is also possible that another add-on system was installed on the vehicle, either by the dealership or by a previous owner.
The remote used with the dealer-installed system is our transmitter 086-6021. It is no longer made by Code Alarm or sold by Kia. We no longer have any new 086-6021 parts in stock, but we do have 2 used (B-grade) parts in stock, which sell for $29. I checked the 2 086-6021 B-grade parts we have in stock. They are not in great shape, but they are all that is available.
You could buy one of these parts and try to program it to the vehicle, or you could first try to confirm exactly what system is in your vehicle. To do that, you would need to locate the system’s control module. It is a black box – often about 1″ x 3″ x 4″ – and is usually installed under the dashboard on the driver’s side of the vehicle. Alarm systems also have some form of shut-off switch and often an LED light. These components are generally installed on the dashboard or just below it. If you can find one of these components, follow the wire from it to the control module. There you should find some kind of identifying information, such as a brand and model number. That is generally the most useful information for identifying an otherwise unknown alarm system in a vehicle.
We have remotes available for most add-on systems. If you locate the control module, I suggest you call with the information and speak with one of our call center personnel. He or she will be able to help you identify exactly which remote you need. Our call center is open from 8am-6pm Central time M-F and from 9am-3pm on Saturday.
In order to program a new remote to work with the system, you will need to use the valet (shut-off) switch. Given the age of the vehicle, it might be wise to check and make sure you have a working valet switch. If you do not, we can provide that as well. Programming instructions and free phone tech support are included with each part.
