2021-2024 Kia AVN 5.0 Non-Responsive Radio Icon TSB

Symptoms

Owners of certain 2021-2024 Kia vehicles equipped with the AVN 5.0 wide infotainment system may experience a Kia AVN 5.0 non-responsive radio. This issue manifests as the radio (AM, FM, SXM) becoming inoperative or failing to respond to user input. Specifically, the AVN unit may not react when pressing the physical 'RADIO' hard key/button or when selecting the 'RADIO' icon on the AVN menu screen.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The problem is typically identified when the radio functions, such as AM, FM, or SXM, do not respond to user commands. This includes both physical button presses and on-screen selections of the 'RADIO' icon. The underlying cause is identified as outdated software on the 5th Generation AVN wide unit. Technicians will inspect the current software version displayed in the 'General Settings' menu of the AVN unit. If the software version is older than the required update, the bulletin applies.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair involves updating the software on the 5th Generation AVN wide unit using a USB Flash Drive. The process begins by turning the ignition to the 'ON' position and navigating through the AVN screen to 'Confirm', then 'Setup', and finally 'General'. The technician will then select 'SW Info/Update' and 'Update'. A USB Flash Drive, pre-loaded with the latest software, is inserted into the USB slot located underneath the AVN unit. The system will then prompt to start the update. The update process can take up to 2 hours and 30 minutes, during which the system may display the Kia logo, go black, or show messages like "Preparing System Update" or "Updating...". Once complete, the software version is re-verified to ensure the update was successful.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this software update, dealers will need a specific USB Flash Drive. There are two types: USB Flash Drive 'A' and USB Flash Drive 'B', each compatible with different Kia models. For example, USB Flash Drive 'A' is used for models like the Stinger (CK PE) and Sorento (MQ4 P/HEV), while USB Flash Drive 'B' is for models such as the Forte (BDm PE) and EV6 (CV). Dealers can purchase replacement USB drives from Snap-On or download the software update files from https://update.kia.com/US/EN/Main using a 64GB USB Flash Drive, following instructions in TSB ELE208.

Important Warnings

• A Technical Service Bulletin is a field fix repair program without customer notification that may be performed during the warranty period. Any dealer requesting to perform this repair outside the warranty period will require DPSM approval.
• During the update process, DO NOT turn the ignition switch 'OFF', start the engine, and/or remove the USB drive from the vehicle.
• It is crucial to confirm that a fully charged battery (12.3 volts or higher) is used before starting the update.
• DO NOT remove the USB drive or turn the ignition 'OFF' or interrupt the power supply during the update.
• There will be multiple occurrences where the Kia logo will appear, the display will be black, or messages like "Preparing System Update" or "Updating..." are shown for an extended period. This is normal behavior.
• If any issues occur during or after the software update, contact Kia America Techline for assistance.

Owner Action

If you experience a Kia AVN 5.0 non-responsive radio in your 2021-2024 Kia vehicle, you should schedule an appointment with an authorized Kia dealer. The software update is performed under warranty. The repair involves a software update for the AVN unit, with a labor time of 0.3 hours. There is no cost to the owner if the vehicle is within the warranty period. The dealer will perform the necessary software update to resolve the