Something SCREWY with KIA RIO keys ? Anyone ?

I bought a used 2003 KIA RIO for my daughter.

The keys are non-standard KIA !

Normal KIA RIO key blanks are mirror image ridges to what her keys are !

I modified the Key edges with Photoshop for privacy....
http://alkaspace.com/usr/3754/RIO_Strange_Key.jpg

No-one seems to know why or how this happened.
I really doubt someone went and changed all the locks on this car !
That would cost a fortune....

Has anyone else had this problem ?

Her keys (2 doors, trunk and ignition) take a wider key and with mirror image ridges versus
what is in the books for 2003 RIO's....

Her Keys are - - ilco x269 KK5

and the Blank that is for that year KIA RIO is - ilco X253 KK3 - Narrower.

How the Hell can this be ?

Any KIA repair, parts, sales folk out there who know about this ?

DoctorBill

I just looked at my Key and its the same as yours. I bought my 2003 Kia Rio Cinco new so I know the locks have not been cahnged.

Hi there Dr Bill, I recognize you from the Metro forum. I just bought a 2002 Rio, (to replace the '99 Metro) There is only one key and it is badly warn. So much so that I can take the key out while the engine is running. I've never seen that before.

Old thread but for those that want to know the correct Key blank for an 01 thru 05 KIA Rio is ILCO plank number X253----KK3

I don't care what the guys makink the keys say this is the blank, spent too many years making keys myself.