The vehicle was a fully optioned 2024 Kia Soul. The goal is to read the car’s 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.
Conclusion: A Day of Lessons Learned
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.
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