2021-2022 Kia Sportage Emissions Software Update

Kia America, Inc. has initiated a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign, identified as SC340 FL101, to address the emissions software logic in certain 2017-2022 model year (MY) Kia Sportage vehicles. This campaign specifically targets vehicles equipped with 2.4L Gas Direct Injection (GDI) engines. The goal is to improve the Electronic Control Module (ECM) software to ensure full compliance with current emissions regulations.

Why This Matters

Kia has identified that engine calibrations in some 2017-2022 Kia Sportage vehicles may not have been optimally configured for emissions standards under specific operating conditions. These unoptimized calibrations could lead to the release of air pollutants that exceed both Federal and California emissions standards. These standards are crucial for protecting public health and welfare from the harmful effects of air pollution.

What's Being Addressed

The core of the issue lies with the engine calibrations within the Electronic Control Module (ECM) of affected 2.4L GDI Kia Sportage vehicles. These calibrations, if not updated, may cause the vehicle to emit pollutants above the legally mandated limits. This campaign ensures that your Kia Sportage emissions software meets all environmental requirements.

Manufacturer's Remedy

To resolve this, Kia will update the software programming of the Electronic Control Module (ECM). This update is designed to improve the emissions-related logic and will be performed free of charge to the owner. This ensures your Kia Sportage emissions software is compliant and optimized.

Important Warnings for Owners

Owners should be aware of several key points regarding this campaign. Failure to have this service performed could result in your vehicle failing an emissions inspection, commonly known as a "SMOG check," when required by state law. This could also be considered a lack of proper maintenance, potentially impacting your vehicle's long-term health and compliance.

For registered owners in California and other states that have adopted California emissions regulations (including Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington), completing this software update is mandatory before annual vehicle registration renewal. Without the update, you may be unable to complete your vehicle registration and obtain license tags. Upon completion of the update, your Kia dealer will provide a "Proof of Correction Certificate," which may be requested by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles during your next vehicle registration.

If you are a lessor and the registered owner of an affected vehicle, you are required to forward the campaign letter to the lessee within ten days of receipt.

Owner Action

Owners of affected 2021-2022 Kia Sportage vehicles should contact an authorized Kia dealership to schedule a service appointment for this software update. While the actual time to update the software may be less than an hour, the total time required for service can vary based on the dealer's schedule. Scheduling an appointment in advance is recommended to minimize any inconvenience.

Performing this campaign will also help ensure your vehicle's full protection under its emissions warranty. For any questions regarding this Emissions Service Campaign, or if your dealer does not respond in a timely manner, you can contact Kia's Customer Care Center at 1-800-333-4542 (Monday through Friday, 5 AM to 6 PM, Pacific Time) or visit https://customercare.kiausa.com.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11025895