2021-2022 Kia Sportage Anti-Theft Software Upgrade TSB

Kia has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) CS2302, revised on March 24, 2023, to provide a customer satisfaction campaign for certain Sportage vehicles. This bulletin outlines the procedure to upgrade the anti-theft software logic within the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) for models that may not have been originally equipped with an immobilizer system. The update introduces anti-theft ignition start logic to enhance vehicle security. Additionally, the TSB includes instructions for installing specific anti-theft window decals.

This TSB applies to 2011-2016 model year (SL) Kia Sportage vehicles produced from May 6, 2010, through November 16, 2015, and 2017-2022 model year (QL) Sportage vehicles produced from December 10, 2015, through December 7, 2021. This ensures that the Kia Sportage anti-theft software is updated for improved security.

Important Warnings and Advisories

Kia has identified several critical points for technicians and owners regarding this software upgrade and decal installation:

• Remote Start Compatibility Issue: "Since the launch of this software upgrade, Kia has identified a compatibility issue involving vehicles equipped with a remote start accessory which results in the activation of the burglar alarm when the remote start is used. Therefore, we would like to delay installation of the software upgrade until we can investigate and address this compatibility issue unless the customer is aware of this issue and specifically requests the upgrade anyway."
• ECU Upgrade Precautions: To prevent damage, technicians must ensure the vehicle's battery is fully charged (12.3 volts or higher) and the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) GDS is at least 60% charged. The ignition must be in the 'ON' position throughout the upgrade, and damaged VCI II units should not be used. "DO NOT start the engine during ECU upgrade." and "DO NOT turn the ignition key 'OFF' or interrupt the power supply during ECU upgrade." After the upgrade, the ignition must be turned 'OFF' for 10 seconds before restarting the engine.
• ROM ID Verification: "DO NOT reference the parts label affixed to the ECU." when checking the Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) for the correct ECU Part Number and ROM IDs.
• Upgrade Failure Risk: "Failure to follow proper procedures may cause the PCM to become inoperative after the upgrade and any claims associated with this repair may be subject to chargeback."
• Communication Failures: If a "Communication Fail" screen appears, "DO NOT disconnect the KDS/VCI-II." Instead, contact the GIT America Help Desk at (888) 542-4371 or Techline for assistance.
• Data Validation: After the ECU upgrade reaches 100%, "the last data validation will take up at least 10 minutes." It is crucial to "DO NOT close the pop-up message until last data validation is complete."
• Decal Availability: "Decals may not be available at the time this bulletin is released. Estimated time of delivery for decals will begin the week of January 30, 2023. Additional orders may be made through Archway (866) 542-6268 when decals are available. Please track any customers that may require window decals if unavailable at the time of the anti-theft S/W upgrade."
• Decal Installation Preparation: "Be sure the door window glass is dust free and clean from any fingerprints or smudges before applying decals to glass surface."

Symptoms

Owners of affected Kia Sportage vehicles may not experience a specific symptom directly related to this TSB. Instead, this is a proactive customer satisfaction campaign to address a potential security vulnerability. Vehicles without an immobilizer system are at a higher risk of theft. The lack of an immobilizer is the underlying condition this Kia Sportage anti-theft software upgrade aims to rectify, providing an added layer of protection against unauthorized starting.

Affected Components

The primary components involved in this service action are the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM). These control units are responsible for various body electrical functions, and the software within them will be updated to include the new anti-theft ignition start logic. Technicians will need to reference specific ROM ID information tables to ensure the correct software is applied based on the vehicle's model year and existing ECU Part Number.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair involves a software upgrade using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) and the installation of anti-theft decals. The general steps are as follows:

1. Preparation: Connect the Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI-II) to the vehicle's OBD-II port. Power on the KDS tablet and select 'KDS' from the home screen.
2. Vehicle Identification: Confirm communication with the VCI and use the 'AUTO VIN' feature on the KDS to automatically configure the vehicle.
3. ECU Upgrade Selection: Navigate to the 'ECU Upgrade' function within the KDS. The system will automatically download the relevant upgrade event (either #652 for QL models or #653 for SL models).
4. Software Reflash: Select 'Auto Mode' for the upgrade. If Auto Mode fails, a 'Manual Mode' option is available, requiring specific passwords found in the TSB. Select the IBU/BCM system and confirm the latest update by performing an 'ID Check'. Proceed with the upgrade.
5. Post-Upgrade Steps: After the software upgrade is complete, follow the KDS prompts to turn the ignition 'OFF' for 10 seconds, then back 'ON'. Finalize the procedure by selecting 'OK'. Allow approximately 10 minutes for data validation to complete.
6. DTC Check: When prompted, select 'YES' to check for and erase any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that may have been set during the upgrade, such as those related to EPS, ESC, or TPMS.
7. Final Check: Start the engine to confirm normal vehicle operation.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this service, technicians will need:

• Kia Diagnostic System (KDS): This specialized diagnostic tool is essential for performing the software upgrade.
• 'Kia Anti-Theft Logic' Decal (Part Number: SO230 ATL): Two decals are required per vehicle to indicate the anti-theft logic upgrade has been completed. These decals are auto-shipped to dealers in rolls of 100.

Decal Installation Procedure

After the software upgrade, two anti-theft decals must be installed on the front door windows. The process involves:

1. Template Preparation: Print the decal template from the TSB to 100% scale and cut it out along the dotted lines.
2. Window Cleaning: Ensure the passenger side front door window glass is clean and free of dust, fingerprints, or smudges.
3. Template Placement: With the window fully up, use masking tape to adhere the template to the outside of the passenger window, aligning it with the B-pillar trim and bottom inner door trim.
4. Decal Application: Carefully peel back the leading edge of the decal's adhesive liner, taking care not to touch the adhesive. Position the decal on the inside of the passenger window, aligning it with the template. Smooth out any air bubbles by pressing the decal from the center outwards.
5. Repeat for Driver's Side: Remove the template, flip it over, and repeat the cleaning and application steps for the driver's side front door window.

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2022 Kia Sportage and are concerned about vehicle security, especially if your vehicle was not originally equipped with an immobilizer, you should contact your authorized Kia dealership. They can check if your vehicle is covered by TSB CS2302 and perform the necessary anti-theft software upgrade and decal installation. Be aware of the potential compatibility issue with remote start systems, and discuss this with your dealer if applicable.

Warranty Information

This service is covered under Kia's customer satisfaction program. The claim type is 'V'. The repair descriptions are CS2302A for SL models and CS2302B for QL models. The labor operation codes are CS2302R0 and CS2302R1, with an estimated time of 0.3 hours per vehicle. No replacement parts are charged to the customer for the software upgrade itself.

NHTSA ID: 10233650