2021-2022 Kia Sportage ECM Emissions Logic Improvement (SC340)

Why This Matters

Kia has initiated a voluntary emissions service campaign, SC340, to update the Electronic Control Module (ECM) software in certain 2016-2022 Kia Optima, Sorento, and Sportage vehicles equipped with 2.4L Theta II GDI engines. This update is crucial because the original engine calibrations were not fully optimized for emissions standards under specific driving conditions. This could lead to the release of air pollutants exceeding Federal and California environmental regulations, which are established to protect public health and welfare.

The Kia Sportage ECM improvement ensures that affected vehicles comply with stringent emissions standards. While owners may not notice immediate symptoms, the update helps maintain environmental compliance and proper vehicle operation over time.

Symptoms

This service campaign primarily addresses an underlying software calibration issue related to emissions, rather than a specific, immediately noticeable symptom for the driver. The primary concern is that the vehicle's engine calibrations may not be optimized for emissions standards, potentially leading to the release of air pollutants that exceed regulatory limits. The update aims to "improve Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) judgement logic," meaning that while no specific DTCs are listed as directly triggering this campaign, the improved logic will enhance the vehicle's ability to detect and report emissions-related issues more accurately in the future.

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

Diagnosis for this campaign involves identifying affected vehicles based on their model year, engine type (2.4L Theta II GDI), and specific ECU Part Numbers (P/N) and ROM IDs. Technicians will use the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) to verify the current ECM software version. The condition requiring the update is the presence of unoptimized engine calibrations, which are identified by comparing the vehicle's current ROM ID against the updated software versions specified in the bulletin. The bulletin lists several "Upgrade Event Names" such as "876.UMa PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement (19MY)" and "879.QL/QL PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement (19-22MY)" which correspond to the specific software packages for different vehicle configurations.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair involves upgrading the Electronic Control Module (ECM) system software using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) tablet and a VCI-II module. The process is designed to be straightforward for trained technicians:

1. Preparation: Ensure the vehicle's battery is fully charged (12.3 volts or higher) or connect a jump starter box. The KDS GDS unit must also be at least 60% charged. The ignition should be in the 'ON' position unless otherwise specified.
2. Software Selection: Technicians will select the appropriate "ECM" system module and the relevant "Upgrade Event" from the KDS menu. Examples of upgrade events include 876.UMa PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement and 879.QL/QL PE Theta 2.4 Emission Logic Improvement, corresponding to specific model years and configurations.
3. Software Update: The update is typically performed in 'Auto Mode' via the KDS. This mode automatically installs the necessary software. The bulletin provides extensive tables detailing previous and new ROM IDs for various ECU Part Numbers, categorized by model, system, immobilizer status, and emissions type (ULEV/SULEV).
4. Manual Mode (if needed): If the automatic upgrade fails, the technician must turn the ignition 'OFF' for about 10 seconds, then back to 'ON' to reset the control unit before attempting a manual upgrade. The bulletin provides specific 'Manual Mode' passwords for each event number and ECU configuration.
5. Completion: Once the ECM upgrade is complete, the technician must turn the ignition 'OFF' and wait 10 seconds before restarting the engine. After the Kia Sportage ECM improvement is confirmed, a Vehicle Emission Recall Proof of Correction Card (UT161 SC340) and a Campaign Completion Label (UT160 SC340) are issued for specific states.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform the ECM software upgrade and complete the campaign, technicians will need the following:

• Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) tablet and VCI-II: This specialized diagnostic equipment is essential for accessing and reprogramming the ECM.
• Vehicle Emissions Recall Proof of Correction Card (Part Number: UT161 SC340): This card serves as evidence of campaign completion for vehicle registration renewal in specific states.
• Campaign Completion Label (Part Number: UT160 SC340): This label is affixed under the vehicle's hood to indicate that the service campaign has been performed.

Important Warnings for Technicians and Owners

Kia has provided several critical warnings to ensure the software update is performed correctly and to prevent potential issues:

• "Damaged VCI II units should not be used and promptly replaced."
• "DO NOT start the engine during ECU upgrade."
• "DO NOT turn the ignition key 'OFF' or interrupt the power supply during ECU upgrade."
• "ONLY use approved ECU upgrade software designated for the correct application."
• "Confirm a fully charged battery (12.3 volts or higher is necessary) or utilize a fully charged jump starter box connected to the battery."
• "Ensure the KDS GDS is sufficiently charged at 60% or higher prior to reflash."
• "All ECU upgrades must be performed with the ignition set to the 'ON' position unless otherwise stated."
• "When the ECU upgrade is completed, turn the ignition 'OFF' and wait 10 seconds before starting the engine."
• "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."
• "Before attempting an ECU upgrade on any Kia model, make sure to first determine whether the applicable model is equipped with an immobilizer security system. 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."
• "DO NOT COMPLETE THE CARD UNLESS THE SERVICE CAMPAIGN WORK IS COMPLETED."
• "DO NOT reference the parts label affixed to the ECU."
• "The Proof of Correction Card and Campaign Completion Label are restricted ONLY to dealers in the following states: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington."

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2022 Kia Sportage with a 2.4L Theta II GDI engine, it is recommended to contact your authorized Kia dealership to determine if your vehicle is covered under the SC340 voluntary emissions service campaign. The Kia Sportage ECM improvement will be performed by trained technicians. In states such as California, Connecticut, and New York, a Vehicle Emission Recall Proof of Correction Card (UT161 SC340) will be provided upon completion, which may be required for vehicle registration renewal. The service is performed free of charge as part of the voluntary campaign. For warranty claim submission procedures, refer to Warranty Bulletin 2025-28.

NHTSA ID 11025889