PI2106_DP

October 5, 2021
ATTENTION:
ALL DEALER PRINCIPALS
Kia America, Inc., 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 2017-2018 MY Kia Forte vehicles equipped
with 2.0-liter Nu GDI engines, manufactured from May 19, 2016 through May 7, 2018.
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 into Limp Home Mode.
What Will Kia Do?
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 date the vehicle was first put into
service, whichever occurs first, for both new and used vehicle owners.
What Should You Do?
Please make certain the appropriate personnel in your dealership are familiar with the details of this Product Improvement
Campaign to ensure proper responses to customer inquiries and requests to have the campaign performed on their vehicles.
Kia will notify owners on October 8, 2021.
LEGAL PRIVACY LIABILITY NOTICE: Pursuant to the terms of the Dealer Sales and Service Agreement and the GrammLeach-Bliley federal consumer privacy act, you are required to keep confidential any and all information and documents
provided to you by Kia 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 safety recall campaign, and for no other
purpose.
Your prompt attention in completing this update is appreciated. If you have any questions,
please contact your Kia District Parts & Service Manager.
Sincerely,
Kia Service Department
Enclosures
PI2106