2023 Kia Models ADAS Alert Volume Change TSB

Kia has released Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 272 (Revision 1), dated January 30, 2023, to address a software logic improvement for the Cluster (CLU) system in several 2023 Kia models. This service action, identified as SA517, enables the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) default alert volume to be adjusted by the owner.

This update is crucial for owners of affected 2023 Kia vehicles, including the Sportage, Sorento, Soul, Forte, Niro, and EV6. The inability to change the ADAS alert volume is the primary issue resolved by this software update. This ensures that drivers can customize their vehicle's safety alerts to their preference.

Important Warnings and What Owners Should Know

Kia has outlined several critical points regarding Service Action SA517:

• No Owner Notification: "A Service Action is a repair program without customer notification that is performed during the warranty period." Owners will not receive a direct letter about this update and should proactively check with their dealer.
• Dealer Stock Vehicles: "Kia is requesting the completion of this Service Action on all affected vehicles in dealer stock, prior to delivery."
• Battery and Equipment Condition: Ensure the vehicle's battery is fully charged (12.3 volts or higher) and the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) GDS is at 60% charge or higher before starting the reflash procedure.
• Ignition Position: All ECU upgrades must be performed with the ignition in the 'ON' position unless specified otherwise.
• VCI-II Usage: "Damaged VCI II units should not be used and promptly replaced." Also, "Be careful not to disconnect the VCI-II connected to the vehicle during the ECU upgrade procedure."
• During Upgrade: "DO NOT start the engine during ECU upgrade." and "DO NOT turn the ignition key 'OFF' or interrupt the power supply during ECU upgrade."
• Post-Upgrade: "When the ECU upgrade is completed, turn the ignition 'OFF' and wait 10 seconds before starting the engine."
• Software Verification: "ONLY use approved ECU upgrade software designated for the correct application." and "DO NOT reference the parts label affixed to the ECU."
• Immobilizer System: Before any ECU upgrade, verify if the model has an immobilizer security system. Incorrect procedures could render the PCM inoperative.
• Software Update Not Always Required: "If a 'No need for S/W update' pop-up window is displayed on KDS in 'Auto Mode', then no software upgrade is required."
• ROM ID Verification: "Some vehicles may not be in the target for this upgrade event even though it is included in the applicable VIN list. Verify ROM ID before performing the update as unnecessarily performing the update can cause damage to the cluster."
• Communication Failures: "If an error notice continues to appear or if the upgrade cannot be performed, DO NOT disconnect the KDS/VCI-II. Contact GIT America Help Desk at (888) 542-4371 or Techline."
• Manual Mode: "Do NOT attempt to perform a Manual Mode upgrade UNLESS Auto Mode fails."
• System Buttons: "Do not touch the system buttons (like 'Back', 'Home', 'etc.') while performing ECU Upgrade."

Repair Procedure Summary

The service action involves updating the Cluster (CLU) system software using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) and a Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI-II). The general steps are as follows:

1. Connect Equipment: Connect the VCI-II to the vehicle's OBD-II connector, located under the driver's side of the instrument panel.
2. Start KDS: With the ignition ON, power on the KDS tablet and select 'KDS' from the home screen.
3. Vehicle Identification: Confirm communication with the VCI and configure the vehicle using the 'AUTO VIN' feature.
4. Select Upgrade Function: Choose 'ECU Upgrade' from the KDS menu.
5. Download Events: The KDS will automatically download the necessary upgrade events (e.g., Upgrade Event #629, #630, #631, #632, #633, #634, #635) from the server.
6. Initiate Upgrade: Select 'Auto Mode' (unless it fails, then 'Manual Mode') and choose the CLU system. Perform an 'ID Check' to confirm the latest update is available, then select the appropriate Upgrade Event and proceed.
7. Monitor Progress: The KDS will display a progress bar as the ECU upgrade proceeds. Do not interrupt this process or touch any system buttons.
8. Ignition Cycle: If prompted, turn the ignition OFF for 10 seconds, then ON, and select 'OK' to continue.
9. Finalize: Once the upgrade is complete, select 'OK'.
10. DTC Check: When prompted, select 'YES' to check for and erase any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that may have been set during the upgrade, such as those related to EPS, ESC, or TPMS.
11. Verify Operation: Start the engine to confirm the normal operation of the vehicle and the ability to adjust the Kia Sportage ADAS alert volume.

Required Tools

To perform this service action, technicians will need the following specialized equipment:

• Kia Diagnostic System (KDS): This diagnostic tool is essential for downloading and applying the software update.
• VCI-II (Vehicle Communication Interface): This device connects the KDS tablet to the vehicle's OBD-II port to facilitate the ECU upgrade.

ROM ID Information

The TSB includes extensive tables detailing the ROM ID information for various models and system types. These tables list the ECU Part Numbers, previous ROM IDs, and the new ROM IDs after the upgrade. For example, for the BDm model's CLU system (STD, 4.2 inch), the ECU P/No. 94041 M7041 or 94042 M7031 will be updated from ROM ID 1.02 to 1.03. Technicians must verify the vehicle's current ROM ID against these tables to ensure the correct software is applied and to confirm the vehicle is indeed a target for the update, preventing potential damage to the cluster.

Manual Mode Passwords

In cases where the automatic upgrade process fails, the TSB provides a comprehensive table of 'Manual Mode ECU Upgrade Passwords'. These passwords are specific to different models, system types, and ECU Part Numbers (e.g., 6291 for BDm STD, 8340 for MQ4 HEV STD). These are used by technicians to manually proceed with the upgrade if auto mode is unsuccessful.

Owner Action

Since Kia is not directly notifying owners for this service action, owners of 2023 Kia Forte, EV6, Niro, Sorento, Soul, or Sportage models should contact their authorized Kia dealership. Inquire about Service Action SA517 to ensure your vehicle receives the necessary software update to enable adjustment of the Kia Sportage ADAS alert volume. This update will be performed free of charge under warranty.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10230885