2023 Telluride SX Prestige Key Fob Range and Remote Start Issues

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:10 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 Kia Telluride SX Prestige

My 2023 Kia Telluride SX Prestige has developed a frustrating issue with its key fob. The remote start only works if I'm practically standing next to the car, and the lock/unlock buttons are also very hit-or-miss from a distance. It used to work perfectly from inside my house or across a parking lot.

I've replaced the key fob battery twice, thinking that was the problem, but it hasn't helped at all. I've also tried my spare key fob, and it has the exact same limited range, which makes me think it's not the fob itself.

Is there some kind of antenna issue or a known problem with the remote system on these newer Tellurides? It's really inconvenient not being able to remote start from a distance, especially in cold weather.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's definitely frustrating when a premium feature like remote start on your 2023 Kia Telluride SX Prestige stops working reliably. Since you've already tried replacing the key fob battery and tested with a spare fob, it suggests the issue likely lies with the vehicle's receiver system rather than the fobs themselves.

Here are potential causes and next steps:

  1. Vehicle's Receiver Antenna:

    • The vehicle has an antenna (or multiple) that receives the signal from your key fob. If this antenna is damaged, disconnected, or obstructed, it can severely limit the range. This could be due to a loose wire, corrosion, or physical damage.
  2. Software Glitch:

    • Modern vehicles rely heavily on software for all electronic functions. A software glitch in the Body Control Module (BCM) or the remote entry system could be causing the reduced range. Sometimes, a simple system reset or a software update can resolve this.
  3. Environmental Interference:

    • While less likely if it used to work fine in the same locations, strong radio frequency interference from nearby cell towers, power lines, or even other electronic devices can sometimes disrupt the key fob signal.
  4. Faulty Key Fob Module/Transceiver:

    • Even if the battery is new, the internal components of the key fob itself could be failing. However, since both fobs are exhibiting the same behavior, this points more towards the vehicle's side.
  5. Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs):

    • Kia may have issued TSBs for specific model years or trims regarding known issues with key fob range or remote start systems. A dealership will have access to this information.

When to See a Shop: Given that both key fobs are affected and you've replaced batteries, the best course of action is to take your 2023 Kia Telluride SX Prestige to a Kia dealership. They have specialized diagnostic tools to:

  • Check for any fault codes related to the remote keyless entry system.
  • Test the signal strength and functionality of the vehicle's receiver antenna.
  • Perform any necessary software updates.
  • Inspect for physical damage or loose connections to the relevant modules. They can accurately diagnose whether it's an antenna, module, or software issue and perform the appropriate repair.