Kia K5 DL3 Memory Seat Upgrade Review

Upgrade Your Kia K5 DL3 with Convenient Memory Seats

Tired of constantly readjusting your driver's seat every time you get in the car? This is especially inconvenient if multiple people drive your Kia K5 DL3 or if you have a busy commute. Adding an OEM-style memory seat option can significantly enhance your driving experience by allowing you to recall saved seat positions with the simple press of a button. This not only saves valuable time but also boosts overall driving comfort and convenience. Let's dive into a review of this practical upgrade for the Kia K5 DL3.

Why a Memory Seat Upgrade is Essential for Your K5 DL3

If your Kia K5 DL3 is used for work or shared among family members, the hassle of re-adjusting the driver's seat position each time a different person drives can be a real annoyance. Finding the optimal seat position tailored to each driver's physique is more time-consuming than you might think, and it's particularly unwelcome during a rushed morning. However, with a memory seat function, these inconveniences disappear. You can effortlessly recall your preferred seat settings with just a button press, reducing driver fatigue and reclaiming the time previously spent on manual adjustments.

Many K5 DL3 owners have expressed disappointment that their vehicle trim level didn't include the memory seat option. Fortunately, using genuine OEM parts or high-quality OEM-style components, it's possible to replicate the factory functionality. For the K5 DL3 featured in this review, the memory seat upgrade was performed alongside an OEM-style front sensor installation.

The OEM-Style Memory Seat Installation Process

The process for installing an OEM-style memory seat system in a Kia K5 DL3 involves integrating the necessary control module and switch. This upgrade requires the vehicle to be equipped with power seats, as the memory function relies on the electric adjustments. If your K5 DL3 has manual seats, a power seat conversion would be necessary before proceeding with the memory seat installation.

The installation typically involves one of two methods: either retrofitting the memory seat switch onto the existing door trim or replacing the entire door trim panel with one that already features the memory seat controls. In this specific K5 DL3 installation, an OEM-style switch, often sourced from compatible models like the Kia Carnival KA4, was seamlessly integrated into the driver's door trim. This method ensures a factory-like appearance and maintains the high-quality feel of the original interior.

Installation process:

1. Careful removal of the existing driver's side door trim panel.
2. Integration of the memory seat control module and switch, often requiring custom wiring to connect to the power seat controls.
3. Programming the system to recognize and store seat positions via the new switch.
4. Testing the functionality, including saving and recalling multiple seat positions and the easy-access feature.

Post-Installation Benefits and Features

Once the memory seat system is installed, you'll notice several improvements. The instrument cluster will display the memory seat position saving and recall functions, mirroring the OEM experience. Furthermore, the addition of the driver's easy-access feature enhances convenience during entry and exit. This function automatically moves the seat backward when the ignition is turned off and the door is opened, creating more space for the driver to get in and out of the vehicle.

Using the memory seat function is straightforward. First, adjust the driver's seat to your desired position. Then, press and hold the 'SET' button on the newly installed switch until you hear a confirmation beep. Next, press one of the numbered memory buttons (e.g., '1' or '2') to save the current position to that preset. To recall a saved position, simply press the corresponding numbered button, and the seat will automatically adjust.