PI2103_DSM

April 19, 2021
Attention:
All Kia Dealer Service Managers
Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to
protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage on some 2011-2013 MY Kia Sportage vehicles
equipped with 2.4-liter engines, manufactured from May 6, 2010 through October 7, 2013.
Kia has developed a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) that detects vibrations indicating the onset of excessive
connecting rod bearing wear. The KSDS is designed to alert the driver at an early stage of bearing wear before the
occurrence of severe engine damage, including engine failure. If vibrations caused by bearing wear start to occur, the
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)
will blink continuously, and the vehicle will be placed in Limp Home Mode.
This will reduce further damage to the engine and ensure that the vehicle occupants are not exposed to the risk of a
more severe engine failure. At that time, Diagnostic Trouble Code (“DTC”) P1326, specific to the KSDS, will be
recorded in the ECU. The vehicle can continue to be operated for a limited time in Limp Home Mode, but it will
accelerate slowly and have a reduced maximum speed. Also, engine RPMs will be limited to approximately 1800-2000
RPM.
Kia will perform the software update on the Engine Control Unit (“ECU”) to protect the engine from excessive
connecting rod bearing damage. Upon completion of the KSDS software update, Kia will warrant any engine long
block assembly repairs needed due to connecting rod bearing damage for 15 years/150,000 miles starting from the first
date of service, whichever occurs first, for both new and used vehicle owners.
The Technical Service Bulletin that provides vehicle repair procedures, affected VIN production range, and warranty
claim information will be posted on the Kia Global Information System (KGIS) at www.kiatechinfo.com and the
campaign documents will be posted on kdealer.com in the week of April 19, 2021. A list of retail Kia Sportage vehicle
owners affected by this campaign can be accessed on WEBDCS after the date of the owner notification.
Kia will begin the owner notification mailing for the affected 2011-2013 MY Kia Sportage vehicles on April 21, 2021.
We appreciate your support in encouraging customers to have this Product Improvement Campaign
completed as quickly as possible.
Please make certain the appropriate personnel in your dealership are familiar with the details of this campaign to
ensure proper responses to customer inquiries and requests to have the campaign performed on their Kia Sportage
vehicles. Be sure to remind your customers of the importance of following the vehicle’s maintenance schedule and
keeping maintenance records.
LEGAL PRIVACY LIABILITY NOTICE: Pursuant to the terms of the Dealer Sales and Service Agreement and the
Gramm-Leach-Bliley federal consumer privacy act, you are required to keep confidential any and all information and
documents provided to you by Kia Motors America, Inc. or generated by you in the conduct of carrying out work under
that Agreement regarding Kia vehicle purchasers and owners, including but not limited to warranty claim information.
Kia dealers may use such owner information for the sole purpose of conducting and performing this product
improvement campaign, and for no other purpose.
Your prompt attention in completing this campaign is appreciated. If you have any questions, please contact your Kia
District Parts & Service Manager.
Sincerely,
Kia Service Department
Enclosures
PI2103