2021-2022 Kia Models Theft Deterrent Ignition Protector TSB

Why This Matters: Preventing Vehicle Thefts

Kia has released Technical Service Bulletin CS2312 to enhance the anti-theft measures for several 2021-2022 Kia models. This initiative is a follow-up to previous anti-theft software logic upgrades (TSBs CS2301 through CS2309) for vehicles that may not have been equipped with an immobilizer or whose Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) / Body Control Module (BCM) received the software update. The primary goal is to deter vehicle thefts by physically securing the ignition cylinder.

This customer satisfaction campaign aims to prevent the removal of the key lock cylinder, thereby blocking access to the ignition tumbler. Implementing this update provides an additional layer of security for your vehicle.

What's Being Done: Protector and Decal Installation

This bulletin outlines the procedure for installing a "Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector" and applying "Kia Anti-Theft PROTECTION" window decals. The protector is a physical cover permanently affixed to the ignition cylinder, designed to prevent unauthorized removal of the key lock cylinder. The decals serve as a visual deterrent, indicating that the vehicle has enhanced anti-theft features. If your vehicle previously received the "Kia Anti-Theft LOGIC" decal under earlier TSBs and you wish to have it replaced, the new "Kia Anti-Theft PROTECTION" decal may be installed, unless specifically requested otherwise.

Important Warnings and Owner Information

Owners should be aware of several critical points regarding this service:

• Waiver and Acknowledgement: Dealers are required to have customers sign a "Kia Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector & Decal Installation Waiver and Acknowledgement" before performing the service. This signed document must be attached to the claim for warranty purposes.
• Key Illumination Ring: If your vehicle is equipped with an illuminated ignition switch key ring, the installation of the Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector will permanently remove this feature. This is a permanent change to the vehicle's interior.
• Future Repairs: Any future replacement of the ignition switch (including the tumbler and related parts) will necessitate the complete replacement of the ignition cylinder assembly and reinstallation of a new Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector. This reinstallation will be performed at no cost to you, ensuring ongoing compliance with TSB CS2312.
• Scope of Service: This procedure does not include any additional diagnosis or inspection of other conditions in your vehicle. It is strictly for the installation of the theft deterrent components.
• Aftermarket Window Tint: If your vehicle has aftermarket window tint, dealers must obtain your approval to install the "Kia Anti-Theft Protection" decals. The decals will adhere to the tint film, not the glass, and may not be visible from outside the vehicle through the tint.
• California Vehicles: For vehicles in California, if a Proposition 65 decal is present on the inner front door glass, dealers must obtain customer approval to remove it before installing the new "Kia Anti-Theft Protection" decals.
• Bonding Compound Handling: Technicians are cautioned to follow instructions for the bonding compound/epoxy carefully, noting that the drying time is limited to 5 minutes. They must also avoid contaminating surrounding parts with the compound and are explicitly instructed not to apply it inside the key lock cylinder mechanism or cut the 'key warning' lock cylinder wires.
• Decal Application: The decal adhesive should not be touched during installation, and the window glass must be dust-free and clean from fingerprints or smudges.

Repair Procedure Summary

This service involves several steps to install the Kia Sportage ignition protector and associated decals. The procedure varies slightly depending on the specific model and whether the vehicle has an illuminated key ring.

General Procedure (Applicable to most models, excluding VQ models on page 10 of the TSB):

1. Battery Disconnection: The negative (-) battery terminal is disconnected for safety.
2. Panel Removal: The steering column shroud panel is removed by loosening three screws. For Sorento (UMa) models, a plastic sleeve is removed from the ignition switch end and discarded.
3. Ignition Switch Access: The ignition switch connector is disconnected. For Sorento (UMa) models, removal of the ignition switch assembly is not required; the procedure skips to later steps.
4. Key Position: For all other models, the key is inserted into the ignition switch and turned to the 'ACC' position.
5. Lock Cylinder Removal: The key lock cylinder is carefully removed from the ignition housing by pressing an internal removal/installation button. Technicians are advised that the illuminated key ring lock cylinder is shown for reference only.
6. Illumination Key Ring Removal (If Equipped): If the vehicle has an illuminated key ring, it is separated from the lock cylinder. Any securing screws are loosened. The illumination ring connector wires are cut using a wire cutter, but technicians are strictly warned "DO NOT cut off the 'key warning' lock cylinder wires". The illumination key ring is discarded, and the cut wires are insulated with electrical tape.
7. Bonding Compound Preparation: A 1/3 portion of the provided Loctite® 2-part bonding compound (PN UM023 CH273) or J-B Weld 2-part Epoxy (PN UM024 CH275) is mixed on a disposable surface. The drying time is critical, requiring subsequent steps to be completed within 5 minutes.
8. Protector Installation:
   • Sorento (UMa) ONLY: A 2mm thick bead of the bonding compound is applied to a specific 180° area of the ignition switch, then expanded along the side. The deterrent ignition cylinder protector is then carefully aligned and inserted over the ignition switch.
   • All Other Models: A 1mm thick bead of bonding compound is applied to the outer key lock cylinder. Technicians are warned "DO NOT apply any bonding compound or epoxy inside the key lock cylinder (C) mechanism". The lock cylinder is partially inserted into the ignition housing, with a caution not to contaminate surrounding parts. The key is inserted and turned to 'ACC', then the lock cylinder is fully inserted until an audible 'click' is heard. The key is then removed after turning to 'OFF'.
9. Final Bonding and Protector Placement: A 3mm thick bead of bonding compound is applied to the outer top and bottom areas of the ignition housing. If the vehicle was originally equipped with a key illumination ring, a provided deco-ring is installed over the end of the key lock cylinder. The appropriate theft deterrent ignition cylinder protector (selected from a parts table) is aligned and slid over the ignition housing. The ignition housing itself "does NOT need to be removed".
10. Securing the Protector: Bonding compound is applied to the protector's locking tab cavity. A provided locking tab is inserted, and two breakaway screws are tightened until their heads separate from the shank, permanently securing the protector.
11. Reassembly and Testing: All removed parts are reinstalled in reverse order. The key is inserted to 'Start' the vehicle, and normal ignition switch operation (from 'LOCK → ACC → ON → START') is confirmed.

VQ Only Procedure (for Sedona (VQ) and Sorento (XMa)):

1. Battery Disconnection: The negative (-) battery terminal is disconnected.
2. Panel Removal: The crash pad side cover is disengaged, and the crash pad lower panel is removed by loosening screws and disengaging clips. Any equipped connectors are disconnected.
3. Ignition Switch Access: The crash fascia panel is removed, and the ignition switch connector is disconnected.
4. Key Position: The key is inserted into the ignition switch and turned to the 'ACC' position.
5. Lock Cylinder Removal: The lock cylinder is removed from the ignition housing by pressing a removal/installation button.
6. Illumination Key Ring Removal (If Equipped): Similar to the general procedure, the illumination key ring is separated, and its wires are cut and insulated, with the same warning not to cut 'key warning' wires.
7. Bonding Compound Preparation: The 2-part bonding compound/epoxy is mixed, with the 5-minute working time caution.
8. Protector Installation: A 1mm thick bead of bonding compound is applied to the outer key lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is partially inserted into the ignition housing, then fully seated after turning the key to 'ACC'. Bonding compound is applied to the ignition housing. A deco-ring is installed if applicable. The theft deterrent ignition cylinder protector is then aligned and slid over the ignition housing. The ignition housing "does NOT need to be removed".
9. Securing the Protector: A locking tab is inserted into the protector's cavity, and breakaway screws are tightened until they shear off.
10. Reassembly and Testing: All removed parts are reinstalled, and ignition switch operation is confirmed.

Decal Installation Procedure:

1. Template Preparation: Two copies of the decal template are printed and cut out. The appropriate template (A or B) for the vehicle is selected.
2. Window Preparation: The door window glass must be dust-free and clean. The glass is fully raised.
3. Template Placement: The template sheet is adhered to the outside of the right passenger, front door glass using masking tape, ensuring it's flush with the inner corner and bottom of the window trim.
4. Decal Application: The leading edge of the decal's adhesive is exposed by pulling back the liner. The decal is then positioned on the inside of the passenger right door window, aligned with the template box. Technicians are warned "DO NOT TOUCH ADHESIVE". Once half the label is removed from the liner, it's pressed onto the window, working forward to remove air bubbles.
5. Driver Side: The template is removed from the passenger side and the process is repeated for the driver side door glass.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this service, specific parts and materials are required:

• "Kia Anti-Theft Protection Decal": Part Number SO230 WARN** (supplied in rolls of 500, one pack services three vehicles).
• Loctite® Bonding Compound: Part Number UM023 CH273**.
• J-B Weld Epoxy: Part Number UM024 CH275**.
  • Note: Both bonding compounds MUST be ordered through the Kia Chemicals website. Dealers may use locally sourced compounds ONLY IF the specified Kia part numbers are not in stock. The maximum allowed amount for bonding compound is $4.10 per vehicle, using sublet code 'X1'.
• Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector Kit: Specific part numbers vary by model:
  • SK3: 81921 B200OQQK
  • SC: 81921 H9000QQK
  • YD: 81921 A700OQQK
  • UB: 81921 1WOOOQQK
  • SL: 81921 3WOOOQQK
  • VQ: 81921 4D00OQQK
  • QL, JFa, JF, BDm, YP, SP2, DL3a: 81921 D900OQQK
  • MQ4a: 81921 R500OQQK
  • TF: 81921 2TO0OOQQK
  • UMa: 81921 C600OQQK
  • XMa: 81921 10000QQK

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2022 Kia model, including the Sportage, and have concerns about vehicle theft, it is recommended to contact your authorized Kia dealer to schedule this customer satisfaction service. The installation of the Kia Sportage ignition protector and decals is performed free of charge. Be prepared to sign the required waiver and acknowledgement form. If you have any questions about the impact on your illuminated key ring or future ignition repairs, discuss them with your dealer.

This bulletin, CS2312, is a revision (Rev 1) dated February 18, 2026, and is effective through December 2025. It supersedes previous anti-theft software logic upgrade TSBs CS2301, CS2302, CS2303, CS2304, CS2305, CS2306, CS2307, CS2308, and CS2309.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11028908