A recent experience with a Kia dealership highlights the challenges of diagnosing and repairing a faulty Driver Door Switch. The issue, accompanied by flickering door lights and problems with the ambient lighting system, required an extended stay at the dealership and intervention from Kia Consumer Affairs.
Diagnosing the Driver Door Switch Issue
Initially, the vehicle was left at the dealership for two weeks with no progress on the repair. Using the Kia app, the owner confirmed the car remained untouched in the lot. After contacting Kia Consumer Affairs, a case was opened, and communication with the dealer improved slightly. The dealership’s diagnosis pointed to a potential problem with the driver door module, affecting both the door switch and potentially the ambient lighting system.
Kia engineers suggested swapping the ambient lighting module with one from another Stinger for troubleshooting purposes. However, a comparable model wasn’t available at the dealership. The inability to change ambient lighting colors while the car is in motion is allegedly a safety feature, raising concerns about a larger underlying issue. Whether the flickering door lights and the ambient lighting problem are related remains unknown.
Replacing the Driver Door Module
Kia ultimately approved the replacement of the driver door module. Unfortunately, the part was on backorder with no estimated time of arrival, leaving the driver without a resolution. The prolonged wait for the driver door module underscores the frustration of dealing with complex electrical issues in modern vehicles. Even with the eventual replacement, there’s no guarantee it will solve the accompanying ambient lighting issue. This experience contrasts sharply with the owner’s previous positive service experiences at an Acura dealership, highlighting the significant differences in service quality between car brands.
Conclusion
A faulty driver door switch can lead to a cascade of problems, as illustrated by this case. While Kia Consumer Affairs attempted to mediate the situation, the lack of a clear diagnosis, the extended repair time, and the uncertainty surrounding the ambient lighting issue demonstrate the ongoing challenges car owners face when dealing with complex electrical systems. The experience underscores the importance of finding a reliable and responsive dealership for vehicle maintenance and repairs. The driver is left awaiting the arrival of the new driver door module and hoping for a complete resolution to the issues.
