2021-2022 Kia Sportage Brake Light Warning TSB
Kia has issued Technical Service Bulletin ELE299 for 2021-2022 Sportage models experiencing a 'Check brake light' warning on the instrument cluster, even when brake lights function correctly. The bulletin outlines a procedure to inspect and potentially replace the rear combination lamp holder and…
Ahmet Topcu2021 Kia Sportage
Also applies to
- Kia Sportage
- 2022
Owners of 2021-2022 Kia Sportage vehicles may encounter a "Master Warning Light" illuminating on the instrument cluster, accompanied by the message "Check brake light." This can occur even if the brake light bulb is functioning properly. This TSB provides a solution for the Kia Sportage brake light warning by addressing the rear combination lamp assembly and the vehicle's electrical system.
Symptoms
The primary symptom is the illumination of the "Master Warning Light" and the display of the message "Check brake light" on the instrument cluster. This indicates a perceived fault in the brake light system, despite the bulbs potentially working as intended.
Diagnosis and Inspection
To diagnose the Kia Sportage brake light warning, technicians will first confirm the customer's concern regarding the warning lights and messages. The procedure involves removing both the left and right rear combination lamps and inspecting the lamp holder and wiring harnesses. A critical step is to locate the LOT Number printed on the connector of the lamp holder.
If the LOT Number indicates the part was manufactured before April 1, 2019, the rear combination lamp holder and wiring harness will require replacement. If the LOT Number is on or after April 1, 2019, replacement is not necessary. Additionally, if the LOT Number is unclear, technicians will inspect for the presence of a bulb stopper; if a bulb stopper is absent, the lamp holder and harness must be replaced.
Important Warnings for Technicians and Owners
Several important advisories are outlined in the TSB, particularly concerning the software upgrade process:
- This TSB does not apply to vehicles equipped with LED Taillamp assemblies.
- Before performing the ECU upgrade, ensure the vehicle's battery is fully charged (12.3 volts or higher) or use a fully charged jump starter box.
- The Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) GDS unit must be at 60% charge or higher before reflash.
- All ECU upgrades must be performed with the ignition in the 'ON' position unless specified otherwise.
- Damaged VCI II units should not be used and must be replaced.
- Do NOT disconnect the VCI-II from the vehicle during the ECU upgrade procedure.
- Do NOT start the engine during the ECU upgrade.
- Do NOT turn the ignition key 'OFF' or interrupt the power supply during the ECU upgrade.
- After the ECU upgrade is completed, turn the ignition 'OFF' and wait 10 seconds before starting the engine.
- ONLY use approved ECU upgrade software designated for the correct application.
- It is recommended to always check the Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) to locate the correct ECU Part Number respective to Auto/Manual Mode ROM IDs. Do NOT reference the parts label affixed to the ECU.
- Before attempting an ECU upgrade on any Kia model, ensure the vehicle is not equipped with an immobilizer security system, as failure to follow proper procedures may render the PCM inoperative, potentially leading to chargebacks for the repair.
- The vehicle must be correctly identified in the KDS Vehicle Selection to download the appropriate upgrade event.
- Do NOT attempt to perform a Manual Mode upgrade UNLESS the Auto Mode upgrade fails.
- Do not touch system buttons (like 'Back', 'Home', etc.) while performing the ECU upgrade.
- If an error notice persists or the upgrade cannot be performed, do NOT disconnect the KDS/VCI-II. Instead, contact GIT America Help Desk at (888) 542-4371 or Techline.
- The manual upgrade should ONLY be performed if the automatic upgrade fails. If automatic upgrade fails, turn the ignition 'OFF' for about 10 seconds then back 'ON' to reset the control unit BEFORE attempting manual upgrade.
Repair Procedure Summary
The repair for the Kia Sportage brake light warning involves two main parts: a physical inspection and potential replacement, followed by a software update.
- Inspection and Replacement: As detailed in the diagnosis section, the rear combination lamp holder and wiring harness are inspected. If the LOT Number is before April 1, 2019, or if a bulb stopper is missing, the lamp holder and wiring harness (Part Number 92480 D9510) will be replaced.
- Software Upgrade: The Smart Junction Block (SJB) system's software logic is updated using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS). This involves connecting the VCI-II to the OBD-II connector, turning on the KDS tablet, and selecting the 'ECU Upgrade' function. The KDS will download Upgrade Event #684, titled "684.QL PE SJB UPGRADE FOR REAR LAMP DTC JUDGMENT LOGIC." The technician will select the SJB system and proceed with the upgrade. After the upgrade, the ignition is cycled, and any stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are checked and erased.
Required Tools and Parts
- Tool: Kia Diagnostic System (KDS)
- Part: Lamp Holder and Wiring Harness (Part Number 92480 D9510) - 1 or 2 units as needed, based on inspection.
ROM ID Information and ECU Part Numbers
To confirm the latest reflash has been applied, technicians verify the ROM ID using the following information. The upgrade targets specific ECU Part Numbers (P/No.) for the Smart Junction Block (SJB) system, updating their software from previous ROM IDs to the new version 3.04.2.
| Model | EM | ECU P/No. | Previous ROM ID | New ROM ID |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QL PE | SJB | 91955 D9510 | 3.03.0 | |
| 91955 D9530 | 3.03.1 | |||
| 91955 D9550 | 3.04.0 | |||
| 91955 D9570 | 3.04.1 | |||
| 91955 D9590 | ||||
| 91955 D9610 | ||||
| 91955 D9630 | ||||
| 91955 D9650 | ||||
| 91955 D9670 | ||||
| 91955 D9690 | ||||
| 91955 D9710 | 3.04.2 | |||
| 91955 D9730 | ||||
| 91955 D9750 | ||||
| 91955 D9770 | ||||
| 91955 D9790 | ||||
| 91955 D9810 | ||||
| 91955 D9830 | ||||
| 91955 D9850 | ||||
| 91955 D9870 | ||||
| 91955 D9890 | ||||
| 91955 D9910 | ||||
| 91955 D9930 | ||||
| 91955 D9950 | ||||
| 91955 D9970 |
What Owners Should Do
If your 2021-2022 Kia Sportage is displaying a "Check brake light" warning, it is recommended to visit an authorized Kia dealership. Technicians will perform the necessary inspection of the rear combination lamp holder and wiring harness, and if required, replace the affected components. They will also update the Smart Junction Block (SJB) software to resolve the Kia Sportage brake light warning issue. This service is typically covered under warranty.
Source: NHTSA ID: 10238482
Gallery
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What does the 'Check brake light' warning mean on my Kia Sportage?
- The 'Check brake light' warning, often accompanied by the 'Master Warning Light', indicates that the vehicle's system detects an issue with the rear brake lights. Even if the bulbs appear to be working, a fault in the lamp holder, wiring harness, or Smart Junction Block (SJB) software can trigger this message.
- Which Kia Sportage models are affected by TSB ELE299?
- Technical Service Bulletin ELE299 applies to 2021-2022 Kia Sportage (QL) vehicles produced between December 27, 2018, and December 7, 2021, that are equipped with halogen bulb taillamp assemblies.
- What is the fix for the Kia Sportage brake light warning?
- The fix involves an inspection of the rear combination lamp holder and wire harness. If the LOT Number indicates an older production date or a bulb stopper is missing, the components (Part Number 92480 D9510) are replaced. Additionally, the Smart Junction Block (SJB) system's software is updated using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) with Upgrade Event #684.
- Is the repair for the 'Check brake light' warning covered under warranty?
- Yes, this repair, including the inspection, potential part replacement, and software upgrade, is typically covered under Kia's warranty. Owners should contact their dealership for specific warranty details.
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