How to disable VESS (Virtual Engine Sound System) on 2020 (US)

Can confirm 2020 US Niro EV EX Prem is same volume as 2022 US Niro EV EX. We have both.

 

I found a fuse bypass switch online that allows me to turn the VESS off via the fuse when the noise is a nuisance (like backing into or out of my garage), but then turn it back on in all other situations! It’s been working well for me!

Blue Ox BX88271 ATM Fuse Bypass Switch with Short Lead https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009APJ2UU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_BQV268C398W8AAJ03MCT

 

I paid someone to remove my bumper and unplug the connector. It took him 20 minutes.

 

Would have taken 15 minutes to wire a switch into the stock wiring for the VESS system

 

I didn't want to splice into wires. A connector can be plugged back in.

 

But the VESS is permanently off.
You cannot choose to turn on the annoying reverse chime as I can when someone is wandering around behind my car, or I am backing out in an unknown situation. Or turn it on when going forward where the spaceship sound is fairly innocuous

These wires are completely unused if they are not spliced into.

They otherwise serve no purpose, this is their purpose.

 

Thank you RSB515! This is a simple & easily reversible way to solve the problem. Love that I can keep the back-up chime on when I need to and turn it off when I want with a simple switch.

 

What happens if:
1. One forgets to switch back on when charging?
2. Do you need the Batt Cooling in the Winter?
3. Will doing this negate the warranty?
I was hoping the first photo attachment would show inside the fuse cover and what has to be done. Both Views show the same thing.

 

Just did this to my Niro EV today, works really well, thank you all

 

Just swap in a european VESS panel. It's completely plug and play, even if there are extra buttons (headlight height wheel) or they are in different places.

Then you don't have to tap any wires, don't need to tap fuses, and it looks factory incase you visit a dealer or sell it.

Cap2 by rcnesneg posted May 24, 2022 at 3:41 PM

Cap1 by rcnesneg posted May 24, 2022 at 3:41 PM

 

Part # for that?

 

Source?

Most Kia parts sources require a VIN to order and they are not inexpensive

 

93700G5 from wrecked vehicle vin KNACD81DGL5412696
Cost $150 from Portugal.

 

Thanks, RSB! I went this route and it seems to be working great. I am slightly concerned about forgetting that it's off, but I think my plan will be just to turn it off when backing up, then turn it back on when I switch to drive. For the anyone considering it, it took me only 20 minutes and I am not a car guy. Only trick was getting the leads seated correctly in the fuse slot, that took more force than I expected.

Do make sure you order a mini 7.5 amp fuse to go with the bypass switch, the micro 7.5 amp switch you're pulling out won't fit in the switch.

 

Thank you so much for posting this! You have made my world a much better place!!! I can now SAFELY use the beautiful back up camera and reverse my "new to me" 2020 Niro PHEV without rushing to silence the stupid, obnoxious beep. And now no one will stare at me as I back up!! THANK YOU!!!