2021-2022 Kia Sportage Emissions ECM Update SC340

Kia has initiated a voluntary emissions service campaign, SC340, to update the Engine Control Module (ECM) software in certain 2021-2022 Kia Sportage vehicles. This campaign specifically targets models equipped with 2.4L Theta II engines.

The update aims to improve the engine's calibration, which was previously not fully optimized for emissions standards under specific conditions. This ensures that the vehicles comply with stringent Federal and California air pollutant regulations.

Why This Matters

Engine calibrations that are not optimized for emissions can lead to vehicles releasing air pollutants that exceed established Federal and California standards. These standards are crucial for protecting public health and welfare from the dangers of air pollution. The SC340 campaign ensures that affected Kia Sportage emissions ECM software is updated to meet these environmental requirements.

What's Being Updated

The core of this campaign is an upgrade to the Electronic Control Module (ECM) system software. This software update includes improved Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) judgment logic, which helps the vehicle's diagnostic system more accurately identify and report potential issues.

The update involves specific 'Upgrade Event' names and corresponding ROM IDs, which vary depending on the vehicle's model year, configuration (e.g., ULEV/SULEV, 2WD/4WD), and whether an immobilizer security system is present. Examples of these upgrade events include 879 and 914 for the Sportage (QL) models, which involve updating various ECU Part Numbers and ROM IDs to their latest versions.

Repair Procedure Summary

The software upgrade must be performed by an authorized Kia dealer. The technician will use a Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) tablet and a VCI-II module to reprogram the ECM. The procedure typically involves selecting the 'Auto Mode' ECU Upgrade option within the KDS system. If the automatic upgrade fails, a 'Manual Mode' installation may be required, which uses specific passwords listed in the service bulletin.

After the upgrade, the technician will verify the vehicle's calibration identification of the applicable ECU ROM ID by referencing information tables provided in the service bulletin.

Important Warnings for Technicians and Owners

Several critical precautions must be observed during the ECM software upgrade to prevent damage to the vehicle's systems:

• Battery Condition: A fully charged battery (12.3 volts or higher) is necessary. Alternatively, a fully charged jump starter box must be connected to the battery throughout the procedure.
• KDS GDS Charge: The Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) Global Diagnostic System (GDS) tablet must be sufficiently charged (60% or higher) before starting the reflash.
• Ignition Position: All ECU upgrades must be performed with the ignition set to the 'ON' position, unless otherwise specified.
• VCI-II Unit: Damaged VCI-II units should not be used and must be promptly replaced. Technicians must be careful not to disconnect the VCI-II from the vehicle during the ECU upgrade.
• Engine Operation: DO NOT start the engine during the ECU upgrade.
• Power Interruption: DO NOT turn the ignition key 'OFF' or interrupt the power supply during the ECU upgrade. Any interruption can cause the PCM to become inoperative.
• Post-Upgrade: Once the ECU upgrade is complete, the ignition must be turned 'OFF' for 10 seconds before starting the engine.
• Software Use: Only approved ECU upgrade software designated for the correct application should be used.
• Immobilizer System: Before attempting an ECU upgrade, technicians must determine if the vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer security system. Failure to follow proper procedures may render the PCM inoperative, and associated claims may be subject to chargeback.
• Emissions Card: DO NOT COMPLETE THE VEHICLE EMISSION RECALL - PROOF OF CORRECTION CARD UNLESS THE SERVICE CAMPAIGN WORK IS COMPLETED. All information on the card must be printed neatly.

Required Tools and Parts

To perform this service campaign, Kia dealers will utilize specific tools and parts:

• Tool Name: Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) tablet and VCI-II.
• Part Numbers:
  • Vehicle Emissions Recall Proof of Correction Card: UT161 SC340
  • Campaign Completion Label: UT160 SC340

These parts are essential for documenting the completion of the emissions campaign, particularly for vehicles registered in specific states.

Owner Action and Next Steps

If you own a 2021-2022 Kia Sportage, you should contact your authorized Kia dealer to schedule an appointment for the SC340 voluntary emissions service campaign. The software upgrade will be performed free of charge.

For vehicles registered in California, Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington, a Vehicle Emission Recall - Proof of Correction card and a Campaign Completion Label are required. The card serves as evidence of voluntary service campaign completion for vehicle registration renewal in these states. The label will be affixed under the hood of your vehicle.

Warranty Information

This service campaign is covered under Kia's warranty. The warranty claim information includes:

• N Code: N99
• C Code: C99
• Labor Op Codes: 250A21R0, 250A21R1, 250067R1, 250067R0
• Operation Time: 0.3 Man-Hours (M/H)

Owners are advised to refer to Warranty Bulletin 2025-28 for detailed claim submission procedures. For substitute transportation policies, refer to Service Policy and Procedures Manual (SPPM) 6.11 “Kia Substitute Transportation.”

NHTSA ID: 11029979