2023 Kia Models: California Emissions Data Collection (DC23)

Kia Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 239 addresses a mandatory data collection procedure for certain 2023 Kia models sold in California. This procedure, labeled DC23, involves extracting “in use performance tracking” emissions data directly from the vehicle's Engine Control Unit (ECU).

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) mandates this data collection for vehicles that have accumulated a minimum of 3,000 miles without any ECU reprogramming or resetting. The TSB outlines a detailed process using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) to capture relevant emissions parameters, ensuring compliance with CARB regulations.

Why this matters

This data collection is crucial for Kia to comply with California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements regarding vehicle emissions monitoring. The collected “in use performance tracking” data helps assess real-world emissions performance. For owners of affected 2023 Kia models, this means a specific procedure will be performed on their vehicle when brought in for service at a California dealer.

Important Warnings for Owners and Dealers

Kia has issued several critical notices regarding this DC23 data collection:

• Mandatory for California Dealers: "If the vehicle meets the criteria below, California dealers must perform this data collection on vehicles whenever an affected vehicle is in the shop for any maintenance or repair."
• California-Specific: "This data collection does not apply to vehicles or dealers operating outside of California."
• Chargeback Risk: "Data collections initiated after a line item is closed are subject to chargeback."
• Prioritize Data Collection: "If a vehicle meets the above criteria, collect data prior to any other campaign or repair-related activities."
• Data Submission Accuracy: "A number of received data submittals are incomplete and are therefore not usable... In order to ensure 100% complete and valid data submittals as well as to ensure related warranty claims will be processed without delay and not be subject to chargebacks, carefully review and adhere to the updated process steps below."
• Electronic Transmission: "Submission of screenshots by KDS Feedback is no longer required for claim payment. The data will be transmitted electronically by KDS."

Trigger Conditions for Data Collection

This mandatory data collection procedure for 2023 Kia Sportage and other affected models is required only if specific conditions are met:

• The vehicle's status in WebDCS shows an open Data Collection code, specifically DC23XXXX, which varies by model.
• The vehicle's odometer must show more than 3,000 accumulated miles.
• The vehicle's repair history must not indicate a battery replacement, disconnection, reset, or an ECU update within the last 3,000 miles. Such events would clear the In Use Monitor Performance Ratio (IUMPR) data required for collection.
• The vehicle must not have a "Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) ON" (Check Engine Light illuminated).

Repair Procedure Summary

The data collection process, performed by authorized Kia dealers, involves several steps using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS):

1. Vehicle Information: Technicians first locate the Vehicle Emission Control Information label under the hood and record the 11-digit “Group” number.
2. Connect Diagnostic Tool: The VCI-II (Vehicle Communication Interface) is connected to the vehicle's OBD-II connector, typically found under the driver's side of the instrument panel.
3. KDS Setup: With the ignition ON, the KDS tablet is turned on, and the 'KDS' application is selected from the home screen.
4. Vehicle Identification: The KDS system confirms communication with the VCI-II and configures the vehicle using the 'AUTO VIN' feature.
5. Initiate IUMPR Function: From the KDS 'More' section, the 'IUMPR' function is selected, followed by 'IUMPR Start'. The KDS must be connected to the internet to verify an open DC23 Data Collection.
6. Data Entry: The technician accurately enters required information such as Dealer Code, Mileage, Technician Name, Repair Order Number, and the 'Test Group' (found on the emission label).
7. Data Transmission: After confirming the captured VIN and initial IUMPR data, the technician scrolls to the 'Send' button to transmit the collected data to Kia's server. An option to 'Print' a record for the repair order is available.
8. Status Check: Technicians can check the transmission status via 'Status Check' on the KDS. Data can be 'Sent' or 'Pending' if internet connection is temporarily unavailable. The system will automatically attempt to upload pending data once connectivity is restored. If transmission fails, the procedure must be repeated.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform the DC23 emissions data collection, technicians require the following:

• Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) Tablet: This is the primary tool for initiating and managing the data collection.
• VCI-II (Vehicle Communication Interface): This device connects the KDS tablet to the vehicle's OBD-II port.
• KDS Internet Update M-N-K-01-00-0135: This specific update ensures the KDS has the necessary IUMPR function loaded.

Owner Action

If you own a 2023 Kia Sportage or another affected 2023 Kia model sold in California, and your vehicle meets the specified criteria (over 3,000 miles, no recent ECU resets, no "Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) ON"), this data collection procedure will be performed by your authorized Kia dealer during any maintenance or repair visit. There should be no charge to the owner for this mandatory procedure, as it is a manufacturer requirement for CARB compliance.

NHTSA ID: 10214889