2023 Kia Sportage Cooling System Performance TSB

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2023 Kia Sportage vehicles may observe the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated on the dashboard. This warning light will be accompanied by specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to the cooling system. Importantly, there are typically no other drivability concerns or noticeable symptoms associated with this condition.

Fault Codes / DTCs

This technical service bulletin specifically addresses the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that may be stored in the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM):

Code	Description
P218100	Cooling System Performance
P2181F0	Cooling System Performance
P2181F1	Cooling System Performance

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The root cause of the 2023 Kia Sportage cooling system performance issue is the degradation of the diaphragm inside the Integrated Thermal Management Module (ITM). This degradation leads to the storage of the aforementioned DTCs and the illumination of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp. For proper diagnosis, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) must be illuminated, and one or more of the specified DTCs must be stored.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Kia has issued several critical advisories regarding this repair:

• This bulletin should only be performed if the customer explicitly reports the "Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) ON". This condition MUST be stated in the opening Repair Order (RO) and Claim Notes, along with the related DTCs stored.
• A Vehicle Diagnosis Number (VDN) must be created for these DTCs before ordering parts or performing the repair. Failure to do so will lead to issues with parts ordering and warranty claim submission, and any claims for replacement parts may be subject to warranty review and chargeback.
• When replacing the Integrated Thermal Management Module (ITM), technicians are advised: "Do NOT disassemble the actuator and collector. The new ITM is supplied as an assembly unit."
• For the Engine Control Module (ECM) software upgrade, the ECU and TCM "MUST be programmed in Manual Mode ONLY" using the KDS 2.0 download.
• During the ECU upgrade process, technicians must ensure the battery is fully charged (12.3 volts or higher) or use a jump starter. The Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) must also be sufficiently charged (60% or higher).
• Technicians are strictly warned: "DO NOT start the engine during ECU upgrade." and "DO NOT turn the ignition key 'OFF' or interrupt the power supply during ECU upgrade."
• After the ECU upgrade is completed, the ignition must be turned "OFF" and technicians must wait 10 seconds before starting the engine.
• Regarding parts, Kia states: "DO NOT order these parts for stocking purposes, related to this TSB. Supply is very limited. Until supply stabilizes, please confirm part availability before scheduling customers."

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for the 2023 Kia Sportage cooling system performance issue involves a two-step process:

1. Integrated Thermal Management Module (ITM) Replacement: The Integrated Thermal Management Module (ITM) is replaced as a complete assembly. This involves referring to the detailed procedures in the applicable Shop Manual on KGIS under "Engine Mechanical System → Cooling System → Integrated Thermal Management Module (ITM) → Repair procedures." After replacement, all removed parts are reinstalled in reverse order, and a new inlet pipe O-ring is installed.
2. Engine Control Module (ECM) Software Upgrade: Following the ITM replacement, the Engine Control Module (ECM) software is upgraded. This is performed using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) in "Manual Mode" only, utilizing Event 854 software. Technicians must refer to TSB SST081 for specific software upgrade instructions and consult the ROM ID tables to ensure the correct calibration is applied.

After completing both steps, normal vehicle operation is verified.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this repair, specific tools and parts are necessary:

• Tool: Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) with VCI-II interface.
• Part: Integrated Thermal Management Module (ITM), Part Number 25600 25650QQK.
• Part: Water Inlet Pipe O-ring, Part Number 25462 2S000QQK.
• Part: Coolant (Prediluted), Part Number UM020 CH263 (2 units).

Owner Action

If your 2023 Kia Sportage has an illuminated Malfunction Indicator Lamp and you suspect a cooling system performance issue, it is recommended to contact your authorized Kia dealer. Inform them of the illuminated warning light and any associated diagnostic trouble codes. The repair, as outlined in TSB ENG259, is typically covered under warranty.

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Source: NHTSA ID 11024183