The vehicle was a fully optioned 2024 Kia Soul with 4A smart key. The goal is to read the car’s PIN code and add a spare smart key.
Part 1: Read PIN Code
Try to read pin code directly using key programming tools to avoid purchasing it from an official database. However, this particular car had a hidden “underwater rock”—a non-standard, aftermarket ignition switch installed by a previous owner.
The challenge was set: which programmer, if any, could successfully extract the PIN code from this 2024 model?
The Toolbox: Testing the Popular Programmers
Put several reputable diagnostic tools to the test:
Keydiy KD-X4: failed to read pin code on this car.
Lonsdor K518 Pro: also cannot read pin.
AutoProPAD: A tool often praised for reading PINs on Korean cars, but it failed on this Kia Soul and even on a Chevrolet earlier the same day.
Autel IM508: A well-known brand that, but has a poor success rate for reading PINs on newer Korean cars.
Xhorse (here use Key Tool Max Pro): personal favorite and usually the most reliable for this task.
The process began with Xhorse. The reading attempt was unusually slow, taking over 20 minutes to reach 80% and nearly 30 minutes in total. Despite the prolonged effort and signs of the tool communicating with the car, it ultimately failed to retrieve the PIN code.
A Critical Warning: The Dangers of Too Many Attempts
A key lesson from this ordeal is the sensitivity of Kia and Hyundai security systems. These vehicles strongly dislike multiple, rapid PIN code reading attempts. Doing so can temporarily lock the vehicle’s security module. In this state, even a correctly purchased PIN code might be rejected, preventing key programming entirely. The only remedy is to let the car “rest” for an extended period, sometimes by disconnecting the battery for several hours.
We are aware of this risk, give the car multiple 15-40 minute breaks between attempts to avoid a permanent lockout.
The Final Attempt and the Inevitable Purchase
After Xhorse failed, we reluctantly tried Autel. Despite a long attempt that showed some promising activity—like relays clicking and the dashboard lighting up—it also failed. Every tool in the workshop had been tried, and none could conquer the 2024 Kia Soul.
Faced with a full day of failed experiments, the only remaining option was to purchase the PIN code from an online service.
The Final Hurdle: A New Problem Emerges
Even with the correctly purchased PIN code, a new problem emerged. The key fob, which was a used unit with a pre-cut blade, failed to program. The process would start but not complete. Left with two potential culprits:
The car had indeed entered a temporary lockout due to the numerous PIN reading attempts.
The used key fob itself was faulty or “locked” and needed to be reset.
Part 2: Program Smart Key
After a full day of failed attempts to retrieve the car’s PIN code, the focus shifted to the next critical phase: successfully programming a new key.
The Challenge: A Used Key and a Locked Chip
The initial plan was to program a used, second-hand key fob to save the client time and money. However, this key presented a significant problem: its internal transponder chip (a 4A type) had a “Lock Status: Locked.” While some in the industry believe these Kia keys can be rewritten regardless of their locked status, this theory was about to be put to the test.
We also had a second option: a brand-new, blank transponder chip known as an “Autel AT100 Super Chip,” which could be generated and programmed for this specific vehicle.
The Test: Used Key vs. New Super Chip
After letting the car’s computer rest for over 19 hours—a crucial step to clear any potential security lockouts from the previous day’s numerous PIN retrieval attempts—the programming process began.
The Used Key Fails: First tried to program the used key with the locked chip. Despite using the correct, purchased PIN code, the programming failed. The key was rejected, proving that once a 4A chip from these models is locked, it is not reusable. This is a critical warning for locksmiths and owners purchasing used keys online: you may only be able to use the physical remote, not the transponder needed to start the car.
The Autel Super Chip Succeeds: Next, we used an Autel programmer to generate a new 4A super chip. This process involves creating a unique digital identity for the blank chip that is compatible with the vehicle. The result was a success. The newly generated chip was accepted and programmed into the car’s system without any issues.
Go to Transpoder function- New 4A chip- Generate new 4A chip.
Program smart key.
Go to IMMO function- select model- Soul (SK3)-2024 onwards- Immo system scan- Add key.
Follow 3 steps to add a spare key.
1). initialise function
2). Verify pin (enter the pin code from dealer/3rd party)
3). Learn key.
Verification and Conclusion
The final, crucial test was to see if the new key would start the vehicle. It worked perfectly, finally resolving the two-day ordeal.
Key Takeaways for Technicians and Owners:
Locked Chips are Final: On this 2024 Kia Soul, a used 4A chip with a “Locked” status cannot be reprogrammed. This makes many used keys sold online useless for starting the engine.
Super Chips are the Solution: Programmable super chips, like the specific 4A chip from Autel used here, are essential tools for modern locksmithing. They provide a reliable and cost-effective way to generate new keys on the spot.
Tool Compatibility is Key:
The Xhorse tool also supports such keys, it requires a specific chip model (XT27B or XT57). In this instance, the Autel tool and its compatible chip were verified to work flawlessly.
This case underscores the importance of having the right tools and up-to-date knowledge. For anyone facing a similar situation with a modern Kia or Hyundai, a new, generatable super chip—not a used one—is the most reliable path to success.
Conclusion:
This case serves as a stark reminder for automotive locksmiths and technicians:
Newer Models are Tougher: 2024+ Kia/Hyundai models may have enhanced security that challenges even the best aftermarket tools.
Patience is a Virtue: When dealing with Korean cars, limit PIN reading attempts and allow significant cooldown periods to avoid security lockouts.
Hidden Variables: Non-original parts, like an aftermarket ignition, can introduce unexpected complications.
Have a Backup Plan: Sometimes, purchasing the PIN code is the most time- and cost-effective solution, especially after a few reputable tools have failed.
