2011-2022 Kia Remote Start Honking TSB (CS2310)

Symptoms

Owners of certain 2011-2022 Kia vehicles equipped with a Kia Genuine Remote Start feature may notice "five (5) inadvertent honks after starting the vehicle with the remote start feature." This specific honking pattern indicates a potential issue with the remote start system's anti-theft logic, leading to the Kia remote start honking problem.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

This issue, known as the Kia remote start honking problem, typically occurs in vehicles that have had the anti-theft software logic (identified as CS230*) applied to either the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or the Body Control Module (BCM). The five honks are a direct result of an incompatibility between this anti-theft logic and the existing software in the Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module. The problem manifests after the remote start sequence is initiated.

Important Warnings

• The software update outlined in this bulletin only applies if your vehicle is equipped with a Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module. If a non-Kia Genuine module is installed, or if the customer no longer has the remote start transmitter (FOB), this specific software update is not applicable.
• For technicians, photos of the Remote Start Control Module and the software upgrade completion screen (including date and time) ARE REQUIRED to be attached to all warranty claims. Failure to submit the correct photos may result in claims being subject to chargeback.
• The MOBIS Kia Rework Downloader software, essential for this update, does not support Mac OS and requires a computer running Windows 7 or newer.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair involves updating the software logic of the Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module. The process begins with accessing the module, which is typically located behind the crash pad.

1. Module Access: The crash pad side cover (LH) and the crash pad lower panel must first be removed to gain access to the Remote Start Control Module. Visual aids (like Figure A and Figure B in the bulletin) guide the technician to these components.
2. Module Removal: Once located (as shown in Figure C), the module is secured by two zip ties (Figure D) which need to be cut. Then, three electrical connectors (Figure E) are disconnected to completely remove the Remote Start Control Module from the vehicle.
3. Software Preparation: Technicians must install the "MOBIS KIA Rework Downloader 1.0.0 Setup.exe" software on a compatible computer (desktop or laptop). This software is only installed once.
4. Module Connection: The removed Remote Start Control Module (C) is then connected to a specialized Remote Start Cable Update Kit (F), part number KOF57 ACJOOQQK. This kit is then connected to the computer.
5. Software Update: The MOBIS Kia Rework Downloader software is used to apply the software upgrade to the module. The software interface will show the progress of the update, culminating in a "PASS" status upon successful completion.
6. Reinstallation and Verification: After the update, the module is reinstalled in reverse order, ensuring it is re-secured with two new zip ties. Finally, the remote start function is tested by confirming normal vehicle operation using the remote. This includes pressing 'Lock' once, 'Unlock' twice, and 'Engine Start/Stop' once, then holding it for more than two seconds within a three-second window.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this software update, the following items are necessary:

• Computer: A desktop or laptop running Windows 7 or newer. Mac OS is not supported. Minimum specifications include an Intel Core i3 CPU and 4GB RAM.
• Software: "MOBIS KIA Rework Downloader 1.0.0 Setup.exe"
• Remote Start Cable Update Kit: Part Number KOF57 ACJOOQQK (One kit is required).
• Zip-Ties: Two locally sourced zip-ties are needed for reinstallation.

Note that two Remote Start Cable Update Kits (P/N KOF57 ACJOOQQK) were auto-shipped to dealers on June 23, 2023. For service or parts inquiries, contact Snap-On Business Solutions at (888) 542-1011.

Warranty Information

This customer satisfaction campaign (CS2310) provides specific warranty claim procedures for both Port Installed Option (PIO) and Dealer Installed Option (DIO) remote start modules.

For PIO modules (N Code: N99, C Code: C99), the claim type is 'V' with a causal part number of REMOTSTRT. Labor operation codes vary by model for the upgrade, such as CS230XR1 for K5, CS230XR2 for Sportage, CS230XR3 for Optima, CS230XR4 for Sorento, CS230XR5 for Forte, CS230XR6 for Soul, CS230XR8 for Sedona, and CS230XR9 for Seltos, with an operation time of 0.5 M/H. An inspection for non-Kia Genuine modules uses CS230XR0 at 0.1 M/H.

For DIO modules (N Code: I11, C Code: ZZ3), the claim type is 'G' (Goodwill) with a causal part number of REMOTSWGW. The labor operation code for the upgrade is CS3010R0 (0.5 M/H), and for inspection, CS3010I0 (0.1 M/H).

Goodwill reasons include G60 for in-warranty vehicles (within 5 years or 60,000 miles) and G41 for out-of-warranty vehicles. A sublet code 'X1' with a maximum of $0.10 is used for zip-ties. Crucially, a KDS KVID photo of the Remote Start Control Module and another photo of the software upgrade completion screen (including date and time) MUST be attached to the claim. Failure to provide these photos will result in claims being subject to chargeback. Refer to Warranty Bulletin 2023-18 for detailed claim submission procedures.

Owner Action

If your 2011-2022 Kia vehicle is experiencing the Kia remote start honking issue, contact your authorized Kia dealership. This is a customer satisfaction campaign (CS2310), and the software update is typically covered under warranty. The dealership will verify if your vehicle is equipped with a Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module and perform the necessary software upgrade. Any subsequent or follow-up concerns should be addressed according to normal service and warranty guidelines.

NHTSA ID: 10239108