2014-2020 Kia Sorento Push Button Start Won't Work? It Might Not Be the Ignition Switch

Is Your 2014-2020 Kia Sorento Not Starting?

When a Kia Sorento with a push-button start fails to turn over, many drivers immediately suspect the ignition switch. While the switch can fail, it's often not the root cause. The Smart Key system has several components that must work together perfectly to start the engine. Before you replace the switch, it's critical to diagnose the problem correctly to avoid unnecessary expense and frustration.

This guide covers the symptoms of a truly bad ignition switch, common related problems that mimic its failure, and what you need to know about buying and installing a replacement.

Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Switch

A failing push-button switch itself is a relatively simple component. Its failure modes are usually straightforward:

• Button is completely dead: Pressing the button does nothing at all. The accessory mode doesn't turn on, and no lights appear on the dashboard.
• Intermittent operation: The vehicle may require multiple presses of the button to start. This might be inconsistent, working one day and failing the next.
• Button feels physically broken: The button may be stuck, loose, or not provide its normal tactile click when pressed.

Problems Often Mistaken for a Bad Ignition Switch

More often than not, a no-start condition in a Sorento is caused by another part in the system. Always check these items first:

1. Dead Key Fob Battery: This is the most common cause. The dashboard may display a "Key Not Detected" message. You can often start the car by pressing the ignition button directly with the top of the key fob. This uses a backup transponder that doesn't require fob battery power. Key fob batteries should be replaced every couple of years as preventative maintenance.
2. Faulty Brake Pedal Switch: The vehicle requires a signal from the brake switch to confirm the pedal is pressed before starting. If this switch fails, the car won't start and may display a message like "Please depress the brake pedal." A temporary bypass is to press the start button twice (without your foot on the brake) to enter the 'ON' mode, then press and hold the button for about 10 seconds to force the engine to start. If this works and your ABS or traction control lights are on, the brake switch is the likely culprit.
3. Weak or Dead Vehicle Battery: A weak 12-volt car battery can cause all sorts of strange electrical issues, including a no-start condition where you might only hear a clicking sound or see the dash lights flicker. Always ensure your main vehicle battery is fully charged and in good health before diagnosing other components.
4. Bad Starter Relays (2014-2015 Models): Kia issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB PS375) for 2014-2015 Sorento models that experience an intermittent no-crank/no-start condition, especially in cold weather. The fix is to replace the 'Start 1' and 'Start 2' relays in the engine compartment fuse box.

Buying a Used 2014-2020 Sorento Ignition Switch

If you've ruled out all the related issues above and confirmed the switch itself is faulty, buying a used OEM switch is a smart, cost-effective option. Because this part is not a common failure point, a used switch from a reputable recycler is likely to have a long service life.

• Physical Inspection: When buying a used switch, check for any physical damage to the button face, the plastic housing, and the electrical connector pins. Ensure the button has a clean, positive click action.
• Verify Part Numbers: Match the OEM part number from your original switch to the used replacement. Known part numbers for this generation include 95430-2P420 (common on 2014-2015 models) and 95430-C5000 / 95430-C5000WK (common on 2016-2020 models). While they may look similar, using the correct part number is essential for proper fit and function.
• Why Used OEM is a Good Choice: For a simple electronic switch like this, a used OEM part offers the same fit and quality as a new dealer part at a fraction of the price. Aftermarket versions may not have the same tactile feel or durability as the original factory component.

Cost to Replace Kia Sorento Ignition Switch

Replacing the ignition switch is a relatively inexpensive repair. The part itself is not costly, and the labor is straightforward.

Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location and the specific repair shop. The labor estimate from RepairPal seems to be based on a lower-priced aftermarket part.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)