2019 Kia Forte Key Replacement

The 2019–2021 Forte uses the same key setup, so everything on this page applies to those years too. The full picture is on the Kia Forte key guide.

2019 Kia Forte: key facts

Key type: Mechanical (no chip)
Push-to-start: No
Transponder chip: Texas DST-AES ('H-8A'/ID75) — smart-key trims
Programming: OBD
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

Base trims: turn-key with NO immobilizer (theft class list runs through the 2021 Forte) — a cut key starts the car. GT-Line/GT smart-key trims use fob 95440-M6000, listed with a Texas DST-AES chip ('H-8A'/ID75); OBD-programmed.

What kind of key does a 2019 Forte use?

It depends on the trim, and that is the first thing we sort out on the phone. The base 2019 Forte is a turn-key car with no immobilizer. There is no transponder chip to match to the car, so a properly cut key will start it. That makes replacement simpler than on most cars from this era, because the work is mostly cutting the key accurately.

The GT-Line and GT trims are different. Those cars use a smart-key fob, part number 95440-M6000, which is listed with a Texas DST-AES chip (the 'H-8A' or ID75 family). That chip has to be programmed to the car, and on this setup the programming is done through the OBD port. It does not require NASTF/SDRM secure-system access, which means we can handle it ourselves rather than sending you to a dealer.

Both versions have a mechanical backup key. If you have a fob, the metal key inside it still opens the door and is worth keeping track of.

Base trims: turn-key, no immobilizer, cut key starts the car
GT-Line and GT: smart-key fob 95440-M6000, DST-AES chip, OBD programming
Mechanical backup key on the car

Do I need an original key, or is all keys lost fine?

You do not need an original key. We can duplicate from a working key, but all-keys-lost is also possible on this car, and it is not the ordeal it is on many newer models.

On a base turn-key Forte, losing every key mostly means we make a new one for the lock and confirm it turns the ignition and opens the doors. Because nothing needs to be programmed, the job tends to move quickly. On a smart-key trim, we cut the emergency blade, then program a new fob through the OBD port with no original key in hand.

If you are down to one key, copy it before it goes missing. It costs less and takes less effort than starting from zero. You can read more about Kia key options by model or see the broader Forte key page if you are comparing years.

Why a lost key can turn into an ignition problem

Replacing a key does not always fix the real trouble. Two ignition issues are common on these cars.

The first is worn ignition wafers. If the key sticks, needs wiggling, or will not turn, the lock itself may be the problem, and a fresh key will not cure it. We check that before cutting anything so you are not paying for a key that will fail in the same lock.

The second is damage from theft attempts. Because the turn-key Forte has no immobilizer, it was a prime target during the 2021 to 2023 Kia theft wave, and the theft-class list runs through the 2021 Forte. A 2019 that has been stolen and recovered, or one that was broken into, often has a damaged steering column or ignition. In many of those cases the ignition lock needs replacing, and the new key is cut to match it. If you bought the car used and the column looks cracked or the ignition feels loose, mention it when you call.

Locked out or need a locksmith now?

We answer around the clock, every day of the year.

Call (213) 577-1366

What affects the price of a 2019 Forte key?

We will not quote a number without knowing your car, but here is what moves the cost.

Trim is the biggest factor. A turn-key cut is a lighter job than a smart-key fob that must be programmed. Whether you have a working key matters too, since copying is usually the more economical route compared with all keys lost. The condition of the ignition also counts: if the lock is worn or damaged, it needs repair or replacement along with the key.

Location and timing play a part. Coming to you with a mobile van costs more to run than a drop-in at our shop. Night and weekend calls can differ from daytime visits as well. We tell you what applies before we start work, not after.

Turn-key cut versus programmed smart-key fob
Duplicate from a working key versus all keys lost
Ignition lock condition, including theft damage
Shop visit versus mobile service, and the hour of the call

What we confirm by VIN, and why call us

Our data is clear that base trims have no immobilizer and the smart-key trims use the DST-AES chip with OBD programming. What we do not assume is which one your car is. Trims get swapped, ignitions get replaced, and used cars are not always what the listing said. So we confirm by VIN or by looking at the car in person before we cut or program anything. If something does not match, we say so plainly.

Wilshire Lock & Key has been in business since 1987. We run a storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood plus mobile vans, and you deal with one company, not a dispatch middleman. David, the owner and lead technician, oversees the work. Phone lines are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at (213) 577-1366.

California requires locksmith companies to hold a BSIS LCO license, and you should ask any locksmith for it before they start. For a quick answer on your car, use our contact page or browse all car key services.

Frequently asked questions

Does a 2019 Kia Forte have a transponder chip?

Base turn-key trims have no immobilizer, so there is no chip to program. The GT-Line and GT smart-key trims use fob 95440-M6000, listed with a Texas DST-AES chip. We confirm your trim by VIN or in person.

Can you make a 2019 Forte key without the original?

Yes. All keys lost is possible on this car. We do not need an original key, though copying from a working one is usually the more economical route.

How is the key programmed?

On smart-key trims, programming is done through the OBD port. It does not require NASTF/SDRM secure access. Base turn-key trims need cutting only, not programming.

Will a cut key start my base-trim Forte?

On base trims with no immobilizer, yes, a correctly cut key starts the car. If the ignition is worn or damaged, it may need repair first.

My Forte was stolen and recovered. Is that a key problem?

Often it is an ignition problem. Turn-key Fortes without an immobilizer were common theft targets, and recovered cars usually need a new ignition lock. We inspect it and cut the key to match.

My key sticks in the ignition. Do I need a new key?

Not always. Worn ignition wafers can make the key stick or refuse to turn. We check the lock first so you do not buy a key that fails the same way.

Do you come to me, or do I bring the car in?

Both work. We have a storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood and mobile vans, and we answer the phone at (213) 577-1366 around the clock.

We cover all these cities

Reviewed by David, Owner & Lead Technician, Wilshire Lock & Key — in the locksmith trade since 1987.

Last updated 2026-10-11.