2025-2026 Kia EV6 and Sportage DCU Software Update (SA635)

Kia has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 406 (Rev 1), identified as Service Action SA635, to address performance issues with the Data Connectivity Unit (DCU) in certain 2025-2026 Kia EV6 and Sportage models. This Kia DCU software update aims to improve the reliability of Kia Connect Services.

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2025-2026 Kia EV6 and Sportage vehicles may experience one or more of the following issues related to the Data Connectivity Unit (DCU):

• "Remote Start/Climate Control function not working"
• "Vehicle Status on the Kia Access App not updating"
• "Connected routing not functioning properly"

These symptoms indicate a problem with the DCU's operation logic, which this Kia DCU software update is designed to correct.

What Owners Should Know

This Service Action is a repair program performed during the warranty period without direct customer notification. Dealers require DPSM approval for repairs outside the warranty period.

Several critical warnings are provided for technicians performing this update, which owners should be aware of:

• No Customer Notification: Kia is NOT notifying consumers directly about this Service Action. Owners must inquire with their dealer or check their VIN on KDealer+ to determine if their vehicle is affected.
• Immobilizer System: Before any ECU upgrade, technicians must verify if the vehicle has an immobilizer security system. Incorrect procedures can render the PCM inoperative.
• Battery Condition: A fully charged battery (12.3 volts or higher) or a connected jump starter box is necessary for the update.
• KDS Charger: The Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) Global Diagnostic System (GDS) tablet must be at 60% charge or higher.
• Ignition ON: All ECU upgrades require the ignition to be in the 'ON' position unless otherwise specified.
• VCI Unit Condition: Damaged VCI II units must not be used and should be replaced promptly.
• No Disconnection: The VCI-II must not be disconnected during the ECU upgrade procedure.
• Do NOT Start Engine: The engine must NOT be started during the ECU upgrade.
• Do NOT Turn Ignition OFF: The ignition key must NOT be turned 'OFF' or power supply interrupted during the ECU upgrade.
• Post-Upgrade Procedure: After the upgrade, turn the ignition 'OFF' and wait 10 seconds before starting the engine.
• Approved Software Only: ONLY approved ECU upgrade software designated for the correct application should be used.
• Failed Automatic Upgrade: If the automatic upgrade fails, turn the ignition 'OFF' for about 10 seconds, then place it back in the 'ON' position to reset the control unit BEFORE attempting a manual upgrade.
• Ethernet Connection Required: The DCU upgrade uses ethernet for vehicle communication. Technicians must use an additional ECI Connector with VCI-II or a VCI-III Connector, connected to the KDS tablet via a USB wired cable.
• VIN Inquiry for Tracking: VIN inquiry data for this repair is for tracking purposes only; Kia retailers should reference SA635 when accessing the KDealer+ system.

DCU Software Update Details

This Kia DCU software update involves reprogramming the Data Connectivity Unit (DCU) using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) tablet. The update is performed in 'Auto Mode' primarily, with a 'Manual Mode' option if the automatic process fails.

Upgrade Event Names:

• 872.CV1 PE, CV1a PE DCU operation logic improvement [Ethernet]: Applies to EV6 (CV1, CV1a)
• 873.NQ5(a) PE (HEV/PHEV) DCU operation logic improvement [Ethernet]: Applies to Sportage (NQ5, NQ5a, NQ5 P/HEV)

ECU Part Numbers and ROM IDs:

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