2021-2022 Kia Sportage ECM Emissions Logic Improvement SC340

Why This Matters

Kia has identified that certain 2016-2022 model year vehicles, including the 2021-2022 Kia Sportage equipped with 2.4L Theta II engines, may have engine calibrations that are not optimized for emissions standards under specific conditions. These calibrations could lead to the release of air pollutants exceeding Federal and California regulations, impacting public health and welfare. This voluntary service campaign, SC340, ensures your vehicle complies with environmental standards by updating the Kia Sportage ECM emissions logic.

Symptoms

Owners of affected vehicles typically will not experience any immediate perceptible symptoms related to this issue. The concern is primarily related to the vehicle's emissions output, which may exceed regulatory limits without triggering a check engine light or performance issues. The primary goal of the ECM software update is to ensure the vehicle's emissions are within legal limits and to improve the system's ability to detect and manage potential future emissions-related faults.

Fault Codes / DTCs

This bulletin focuses on an upgrade to improve "Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) judgement logic." While the document does not list specific DTCs that would be present due to the original emissions calibration issue, the software update is designed to enhance the ECM's capability to correctly identify and manage potential emissions-related faults in the future, should they occur.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

To determine if a vehicle is affected and requires the software update, technicians must verify the vehicle's Calibration Identification of the applicable ECM ROM ID. This involves referencing detailed information tables provided in the service bulletin, which list specific previous and new ROM IDs for various models and configurations. The service campaign applies to specific upgrade events, including:

• 876.UMa PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement (19MY)
• 877.UMa PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement (20MY)
• 878.JFa PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement (19-20MY)
• 879.QL/QL PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement (19-21MY)
• 879.QL/QL PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement (22MY) – currently "On Hold Until Further Notice"

For the 2021-2022 Kia Sportage, the relevant upgrade event is 879.QL/QL PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement. Technicians must cross-reference the vehicle's current ROM ID with the provided tables to confirm the necessary software update.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair involves upgrading the Electronic Control Module (ECM) system software using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) tablet and VCI-II interface, following instructions in TSB SST081. The procedure is typically performed in 'Auto Mode', but a 'Manual Mode' option is available if the automatic upgrade fails or is otherwise specified. Key steps include:

1. Battery Check: Confirm a fully charged battery (12.3 volts or higher) is used, or connect a fully charged jump starter box to the battery. The negative terminal must be connected as shown in the bulletin's diagrams.
2. KDS GDS Charge: Ensure the KDS GDS is sufficiently charged (60% or higher) prior to reflash.
3. Ignition Position: All ECU upgrades must be performed with the ignition set to the 'ON' position unless otherwise stated.
4. VCI-II Connection: Be careful not to disconnect the VCI-II connected to the vehicle during the ECU upgrade procedure.
5. Immobilizer Check: Before attempting an ECU upgrade, determine if the model is equipped with an immobilizer security system. Failure to follow proper procedures may cause the PCM to become inoperative.
6. Software Selection: Select the applicable 'ECM' system module and the correct Upgrade Event Group (e.g., 879.QL/QL PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement for Sportage).
7. Post-Upgrade: When the ECU upgrade is completed, turn the ignition 'OFF' and wait 10 seconds before starting the engine.

Required Tools or Parts

Technicians will utilize the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) and a VCI-II interface for the software upgrade. For states requiring emission recall proof, specific parts are needed:

• Kia Diagnostic System (KDS): N/A Part Number, used with VCI-II.
• Vehicle Emissions Recall Proof of Correction Card: Part Number UT161 SC340 (Qty: 1)
• Campaign Completion Label: Part Number UT160 SC340 (Qty: 1)

These items are used to document the completion of the service campaign, particularly for vehicle registration renewal in states like California, Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.

Important Warnings

Owners and technicians should be aware of the following critical advisories:

• "DO NOT start the engine during ECU upgrade."
• "DO NOT turn the ignition key 'OFF' or interrupt the power supply during ECU upgrade."
• "If the automatic upgrade fails, turn the ignition 'OFF' for about 10 seconds then place it back in the 'ON' position to reset the control unit BEFORE performing the manual upgrade."
• "Do NOT reference the parts label affixed to the ECU." Always check the Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) to locate the correct ECU Part Number.
• "DO NOT COMPLETE THE CARD UNLESS THE SERVICE CAMPAIGN WORK IS COMPLETED."
• "NOTE: Be sure to clean the mounting surface to ensure proper label adhesion" when applying the Campaign Completion Label.
• "Damaged VCI II units should not be used and promptly replaced."
• "Be careful not to disconnect the VCI-II connected to the vehicle during the ECU upgrade procedure."
• "ONLY use approved ECU upgrade software designated for the correct application."
• "Failure to follow proper procedures may cause the PCM to become inoperative after the upgrade and any claims associated with this repair may be subject to chargeback."
• For 2022MY Sportage models, the software release is currently "On Hold Until Further Notice" and is under development.

Warranty Information

This voluntary emissions service campaign is processed under specific warranty codes:

• N Code: N99
• C Code: C99
• Claim Type: R (Recall)
• Labor Operation Code: 250067RO for 19-21MY QL (Sportage)
• Operation Time: 0.3 Man-Hours (M/H)
• Replacement Part Number: N/A
• Quantity: 0

For claim submission procedures, refer to Warranty Bulletin 2025-28. Information regarding substitute transportation policy can be found in the Service Policy and Procedures Manual (SPPM) 6.11 “Kia Substitute Transportation.”

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2022 Kia Sportage, it is recommended to contact your authorized Kia dealer to schedule an appointment for this voluntary service campaign. The software upgrade will be performed free of charge. You can check the repair status for your VIN on KDealer+ (Service → Warranty Coverage → Warranty Coverage Inquiry → Campaign Information) or through the Not Completed Recall / Service Action reports. This campaign is a proactive measure to ensure your Kia Sportage ECM emissions system is optimized and compliant with regulations.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11025859