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

Symptoms

Owners of certain 2021-2024 Kia models equipped with the AVN 5.0 Wide infotainment system may experience a "non-responsive" or "inoperative" radio. This issue affects AM, FM, and SXM radio functions.

Specifically, the AVN unit may not respond when the 'RADIO' hard key/button is pressed. The system may also fail to respond when the 'RADIO' icon is selected from the AVN menu screen. This indicates a problem with the Kia AVN radio non-responsive functionality.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

This issue specifically affects 5th Generation AVN Wide units. To determine if your vehicle is affected, the current software version displayed in the 'General Settings' menu of your AVN unit needs to be checked.

If the last six digits of your AVN Software Version are among the following older versions (221011, 221025, 221115, 221220, 221228), then your vehicle is a candidate for this software update. If your software version is not listed, this TSB may not apply to your specific issue.

Repair Procedure Summary

To resolve the Kia AVN radio non-responsive issue, a software update must be performed using a USB flash drive. The process involves downloading the latest software to a computer, transferring it to a USB drive, and then installing it in the vehicle.

First, access the Kia Navigation Updater website and download the updater program to your computer. Follow the prompts to select your region and vehicle make. Next, choose your specific vehicle model and year from the provided list.

Once the update files are downloaded to your computer, insert a formatted USB flash drive and copy the files to it. Take the USB drive to your vehicle, turn the ignition to the 'ON' position, and ensure the Radio/Media system is 'OFF'. Insert the USB drive into the designated slot underneath the AVN unit.

Navigate through the AVN screen to 'Setup', then 'General', and finally 'SW Info/Update'. Select 'Update' and follow any on-screen instructions. The update process can take a significant amount of time, up to 2 hours and 30 minutes in some cases. After the update is complete, verify the software version in 'General Settings' to confirm successful installation.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this software update, you will need the following:

• USB Flash Drive: A 64GB USB flash drive is recommended for downloading the update files. This item is locally sourced and does not have a specific Kia part number.
• Computer with Internet Access: Necessary for downloading the Kia Navigation Updater program and the software update files from the official Kia website.

Important Warnings

Owners and technicians should be aware of several critical advisories related to this software update:

• 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. Interrupting the process can cause severe damage to the AVN unit.
• It is crucial to confirm that a fully charged battery (12.3 volts or higher) is used before starting the update to prevent power loss during the procedure.
• The system will be unavailable during the update, meaning all features, including the rear camera and audio, are restricted. This is normal behavior.
• There will be multiple occurrences where the Kia logo will appear, the display will be black, or messages like "Preparing System Update" or "Updating..." will be shown for an extended period of time. This is also normal and does not indicate a problem.
• In some cases, the software update may take up to 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Plan accordingly for this duration.
• If any issues occur during or after the software update, contact Kia America Techline for assistance.

Owner Action

If you are experiencing a Kia AVN radio non-responsive issue, you have two primary options. The simplest approach is to visit your authorized Kia dealer. They can perform the software update for you, and it is typically covered under warranty (Warranty Information: N Code: 111, C Code: ZZ3, Labor Op Code: 96560F00).

Alternatively, if you are comfortable with technical procedures, you can perform the software update yourself by following the detailed steps outlined in this bulletin. Ensure you have a 64GB USB flash drive and a computer with internet access. Always adhere to the important warnings to prevent any damage to your vehicle's infotainment system. The update will resolve the non-responsive radio icon problem.

Source: NHTSA TSB ID 11010698