2021-2022 Kia Models Remote Start Honks TSB

Symptoms

Owners of certain 2021-2022 Kia models may notice their vehicle emitting five inadvertent honks after using the remote start feature. This specific behavior typically occurs after the vehicle's Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) has received an Anti-Theft software logic update, identified by campaign number CS230*.

Important Warnings for Owners

Kia has issued specific instructions regarding this software update:

• The vehicle MUST be equipped with a Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module for this software update to apply. If your vehicle has a non-Kia Genuine Remote-Start Module, this TSB does not apply.
• If you no longer have the remote start transmitter (FOB), the software update for this TSB does not apply.
• For warranty claims, photos of the Remote Start Control Module and the software upgrade completion screen are REQUIRED. Failure to provide these photos may result in chargebacks.
• The required MOBIS KIA Rework Downloader 1.0.0 software for the update is compatible only with Windows 7 or newer operating systems; Mac OS is not supported.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The issue of five inadvertent honks is directly linked to an incompatibility that arises when the Anti-Theft software logic (CS230*) is applied to the vehicle's IBU or BCM, and the vehicle is also equipped with a Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module. The honks serve as an unintended alert after a successful remote start sequence.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair involves updating the software logic of the Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module. This process requires a technician to temporarily remove the module from the vehicle and connect it to a computer for the software flash. The general steps are:

1. Module Access: The technician will first remove the crash pad side cover and lower panel on the left-hand side to gain access to the remote start control module.
2. Module Removal: The Remote Start Control Module, which may have various part numbers (e.g., K0F57AC300, 4UF60AQ500, D5F57AC200), is located and then detached by cutting its securing zip ties and disconnecting its three electrical connectors.
3. Software Downloader Installation: The MOBIS KIA Rework Downloader 1.0.0 Setup.exe program is installed on a Windows-based computer (desktop or laptop) that meets the minimum specifications (Intel Core i3 CPU, 4GB RAM).
4. Module Connection: The removed remote start control module is connected to a Remote Start Cable Update Kit (P/N KOF57 ACJOOQQK). This kit is then connected to the computer running the downloader software.
5. Software Upgrade: The technician uses the MOBIS KIA Rework Downloader 1.0.0 to apply the necessary software upgrade to the module. A photo of the completion screen, including date and time, is required for warranty purposes.
6. Reinstallation and Verification: After the software update, the module is reinstalled in the vehicle, secured with new zip ties, and all removed panels are reassembled. Normal vehicle operation, particularly the remote start function, is confirmed.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this software update, technicians will need:

• A computer (desktop or laptop) running Windows 7 or newer, with a minimum Intel Core i3 CPU and 4GB RAM. Mac OS is not supported.
• A Remote Start Cable Update Kit, part number KOF57 ACJOOQQK.
• Two locally sourced zip-ties for re-securing the module.

Owner Action

If your 2021-2022 Kia model experiences five honks after remote starting, especially if it has recently had an anti-theft software update, you should contact your authorized Kia dealer. This issue is addressed under a customer satisfaction campaign, meaning the software update will typically be performed at no charge if your vehicle is within the warranty period. The dealer will inspect your vehicle to confirm it has a Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module and then perform the necessary software upgrade.

Warranty Information

This service is covered under specific labor operation codes. For inspection of a non-Kia Genuine Remote Start Module, the code is CS230XR0. For the actual Remote Start Control Module Upgrade, codes like 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) are used. For dealer-installed options, inspection is CS301010 and upgrade is CS3010R0. Claims require specific photographic evidence as outlined in the TSB.

Source: NHTSA ID 10240563