Kia Mohave OEM Options Retrofit Review: Cost & Results

Upgrading Your Kia Mohave with OEM Options

Enhancing your Kia Mohave with OEM options, often referred to as factory option retrofits or dealer options, can significantly boost convenience and functionality. While many modern vehicles come equipped with a vast array of features, sometimes specific factory-installed upgrades are desired after the initial purchase. This review delves into the specifics of adding OEM options to a Kia Mohave, focusing on installation, cost, and overall value.

Understanding OEM Options and Installation

OEM options, or Original Equipment Manufacturer options, are features and accessories designed and produced by the vehicle's manufacturer. When you consider a factory upgrade or dealer option retrofit for your Kia Mohave, you're essentially adding components that could have been installed at the factory. This ensures perfect integration with your vehicle's existing systems, maintaining the original aesthetic and functionality. A prime example of such an upgrade is a remote start system, which adds significant convenience, especially in varying climates. The Korean market offers systems like the 'Mykey Premium 3' with 'CAT1 Link' that provide advanced remote start and control features. In Korea, the installation cost for such a system typically ranges from 400,000 to 600,000 KRW (approximately $300-$450 USD, though direct conversion can vary). For a Kia Mohave, the installation process involves careful integration with the vehicle's electrical system. Technicians ensure all wiring is properly insulated and secured, often using sound-dampening materials to prevent rattles and ensure a quiet cabin. This meticulous approach is crucial for the longevity and reliability of the added option.

Installation Process: Key Steps for Your Kia Mohave

The installation of OEM options, like advanced remote start systems, requires precision and expertise. Here’s a general overview of how such a retrofit is typically performed on a vehicle like the Kia Mohave:

1. System Integration: The new module is connected to the vehicle's existing wiring harness. This involves identifying and accessing specific wires related to ignition, door locks, and power systems.
2. Component Placement: Key components of the system, such as the control module and antennas, are discreetly mounted within the vehicle, often under the dashboard or near the steering column.
3. Wiring and Securing: All connections are made securely, and wiring is neatly managed. Technicians often wrap wires with insulating tape and use zip ties to prevent movement and noise. Sound-dampening materials may be applied to the wiring loom.
4. Programming and Testing: Once installed, the system is programmed to communicate correctly with the Mohave's onboard computer. All functions, including remote start, door locking/unlocking, and any additional features, are thoroughly tested to ensure proper operation.

The entire process for a comprehensive system like the Mykey Premium 3 with CAT1 Link typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. This ensures that the upgrade is not only functional but also seamlessly integrated, providing a factory-like experience.

Durability, Maintenance, and Value Proposition

OEM options are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, provided they are installed correctly. The durability of a factory upgrade like a remote start system is generally very high, as the components are built to withstand automotive environments. Maintenance is usually minimal, often limited to ensuring the key fob or connected smartphone app is functioning correctly. For systems like the CAT1 Link, which uses a mobile app, the primary requirement is a stable cellular connection and app updates. The value proposition of adding OEM options depends on the specific feature and the owner's needs. For features that significantly enhance convenience or safety, such as remote start in extreme weather, the investment can be well worth it. The Korean market pricing of 400,000-600,000 KRW for advanced systems suggests a premium for integrated technology. While specific US pricing for OEM retrofits can vary widely, similar high-end remote start systems might range from $400 to $800 or more, depending on the vehicle and features. Considering the seamless integration and reliability, investing in genuine OEM options for your Kia Mohave often provides a superior long-term experience compared to many aftermarket alternatives.