Kia K8 Oem Options Installation Review — Cost

Upgrade Your Kia K8 with a Power Trunk Retrofit

Many Kia K8 owners find themselves wishing for a more convenient way to operate their trunk, especially when their hands are full. While some K8 trims come equipped with a power trunk, many do not, leaving drivers to manually lift and close the tailgate. This is particularly noticeable when juggling groceries, luggage, or an umbrella on a rainy day. Fortunately, a factory option retrofit, specifically a power trunk system using OEM parts, offers a seamless and reliable solution to enhance your K8's functionality and daily usability.

Seamless Integration with OEM Parts

The most recommended approach for a power trunk upgrade on your Kia K8 is to utilize genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. This ensures optimal compatibility, safety, and long-term durability, mirroring the performance of a factory-installed feature. The installation process involves replacing the standard trunk latch with an electronically controlled one and fitting specialized springs designed for automatic operation. A new control module is integrated, typically in the same location as the factory unit, maintaining the vehicle's aesthetic integrity. This method guarantees that the new system works harmoniously with your K8's existing electrical system, avoiding potential glitches or compatibility issues often associated with aftermarket alternatives.

Enhanced Convenience and Smart Features

Once installed, the power trunk retrofit transforms the way you interact with your K8's cargo area. A new button is added to the trunk lid itself, allowing for easy opening and closing directly from the rear of the vehicle. This complements the existing controls, such as the button inside the cabin and the remote key fob. A significant benefit of this upgrade is the integration into the vehicle's infotainment system. After installation, a 'Power Trunk' setting will appear on your K8's display, similar to factory-equipped models. This menu allows for customization, including the activation of the 'Smart Trunk' feature. When enabled, the Smart Trunk function automatically opens the tailgate when the smart key is detected within a certain proximity for a few seconds, providing unparalleled convenience when approaching your vehicle with loaded hands.

Installation Process:

1. Component Replacement: The existing manual trunk latch is removed and replaced with an electric actuator-powered latch.
2. Spring Mechanism Upgrade: The standard trunk springs are swapped for power-assisted struts designed to lift the tailgate smoothly.
3. Module Integration: A dedicated control module is installed and wired into the vehicle's electrical system, often connecting to the car's CAN bus for seamless communication.
4. Switch Installation: A new exterior trunk release button is mounted on the trunk lid, and interior wiring is connected to the vehicle's power and control systems.
5. System Calibration & Testing: The system is programmed and tested to ensure all functions (button, remote, smart key) operate correctly and safely.

The entire process typically takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete. The cost for this upgrade in Korea ranges from approximately KRW 300,000 to KRW 600,000 (roughly $220-$440 USD, subject to exchange rates), depending on the specific components and any additional options chosen. While this service is commonly performed in Korea, the parts used are OEM, ensuring quality and reliability. The durability of these systems is generally excellent, comparable to factory-installed features, with most installations coming with a warranty of at least one year.