Quick answer

In EV charging settings choose Always Lock, Lock While Charging or Do Not Lock, then test the selected behavior before leaving the cable unattended.

Before you start

Check that your vehicle has it.

Availability

Verified in the 2025 U.S.-market Niro EV digital owner's manual. This Electric guide does not apply to the Niro Hybrid or PHEV connector menu.

Compatibility check

Does the documented scope match your car?

This check combines the verified year, any source-supported powertrain scope, source-named trim/package and required equipment. It does not read a VIN or factory build record.

Can you see the required control, menu or equipment on your vehicle?
Published availability and qualifications

Verified in the 2025 U.S.-market Niro EV digital owner's manual. This Electric guide does not apply to the Niro Hybrid or PHEV connector menu.

  • 2025 Niro EV Electric models with selectable charging-connector locking mode
Visual orientation

Know what kind of control to look for.

This original category diagram is an orientation aid, not a picture of your exact trim. Use the written labels and your vehicle manual to identify the real control.

Charging & range orientation diagram for Kia Niro
Charging & range orientationOriginal visual guide · controls vary by trim · not to scale
How to use it

Step by step.

  1. 01

    Park the Niro EV and open EV settings on the infotainment system.

  2. 02

    Select Charging Connector Locking Mode.

  3. 03

    Choose Always Lock to lock as soon as the connector is inserted and keep it locked until the doors are unlocked.

  4. 04

    Choose Lock While Charging for automatic release at completion, or Do Not Lock when no cable security is needed.

  5. 05

    Connect the cable and verify the lock behavior before walking away.

!

Important limits

  • Do Not Lock leaves the connector removable during charging.
  • Always Lock can relock if the cable is not removed after the doors are unlocked.
  • Press the connector release control before pulling to avoid inlet or cable damage.
If it does not work

Quick checks.

  • ✓If Always Lock will not release, unlock all doors and press the connector's release button again.
  • ✓If Lock While Charging remains locked, confirm charging has actually finished.
  • ✓If normal release fails because of a 12-volt or electrical fault, follow Kia's emergency-release procedure.
Owner feedback

What happened on your vehicle?

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Primary evidence

2025 Kia Niro EV Digital Owner's Manual — Locking Charging Cable

Relevant section or page: Electric vehicle guide — Charging connector lock — Locking charging cable. We use the written official source to determine the steps and applicability shown above.

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Editorial record

Reviewed with a visible trail.

Scope and steps were checked by Car Cheat Codes Editorial Review. A guide is narrowed or corrected when the source does not support a broader claim.

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Guide change history
  • Initial verified publication.