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Software (S/W) Upgrade Instruction Using KDS (SST081)

Publication date: 2024-03-12
Reference number: SST081

SOFTWARE (S/W) UPGRADE INSTRUCTION USING KDS

SOFTWARE (S/W) UPGRADE INSTRUCTION USING KDS

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): SST081, Date of Issue:  March 12, 2024
KIA: All Models
GROUP: Special Service Tool

SERVICE INFORMATION

This bulletin provides information regarding software upgrade instruction on applicable Kia model vehicles using the Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) tablet and VCI-II. Refer to the applicable Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for the vehicle you are working on and confirm the Upgrade Event ##/Name, ROM ID Information, and Manual Mode passwords (if applicable). Follow the procedure outlined in this publication to upgrade the applicable 'System' on the applicable vehicle.

Auto-Mode 

Manual Mode 

G16336526
NOTE: A Technical Service Bulletin is a field fix repair program without customer notification that may be performed during the warranty period. Any dealer requesting to perform this repair outside the warranty period will require DPSM approval.

S/W UPGRADE PROCEDURE

NOTE:
  • Confirm a fully charged battery  (12.3 volts or higher is necessary) is used or utilize a fully charged jump starter box connected to the battery.
  • Ensure the KDS GDS is sufficiently charged at 60% or higher prior to reflash.
  • All ECU upgrades must be performed with the ignition set to the 'ON' position unless otherwise stated.
  • Damaged VCI II units should not  be used and promptly replaced.
  • Be careful not to disconnect the VCI-II connected to the vehicle during the ECU upgrade procedure.
  • DO NOT start the engine during ECU upgrade.
  • DO NOT turn the ignition key 'OFF' or interrupt the power supply during ECU upgrade.
  • When the ECU upgrade is completed, turn the ignition 'OFF' and wait 10 seconds before starting the engine.
  • ONLY use approved ECU upgrade software designated for the correct application.
NOTE: All of the images included in this publication are for tablet display guidance and reference use only.
  1. Connect the VCI-II to the OBD-II connector, located under the driver's side of the instrument panel.
    NOTE: The ECU upgrade function on KDS operates wirelessly. It is not necessary to perform the upgrade via USB cable.
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  2. Select the 'KDS'  App on KDS.
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  3. Confirm the Auto-VIN populates, and model matches the connected vehicle in the 'Vehicle Selection'  area.
    NOTE: Select 'Vehicle Selection' tab to drop down list and select the applicable model vehicle if Auto-VIN recognition fails.
    NOTE: The vehicle must be identified in 'Vehicle Selection' to download an Event for that vehicle.
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  4. Select 'ECU Upgrade'  on the home screen.
  5. Select 'Auto Mode'. 
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    Tabs Description: 

    • 'Auto/Manual Mode'  review the CAUTION instructions before selecting 'Auto Mode'.
    • 'OTA Management Version Update'  checks if the installed S/W mathces the latest version after an Over The Air (OTA) ECU has been replaced with a new S/W.
    • 'Event List'  displays applicable S/W(s).
    CAUTION: Do NOT attempt to perform a Manual Mode upgrade UNLESS Auto Mode fails. Always follow the instructions given on the KDS in either Auto or Manual mode.
  6. Select the applicable 'System Icon'  to upgrade. Example:  'VCU' was selected for this vehicle.
  7. Select 'ID Check'  to compare the current in vehicle vs. latest update ROM ID in the vehicle. 
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    NOTE: The available Event Group software will populate as shown.
  8. Select the applicable Upgrade Event #___  and then select 'Upgrade'  to continue.
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  9. Select 'OK'  to proceed with S/W upgrade.

    ECU Upgrading 1/2 and 2/2 screen displaying upgrade process from 0 - 100%. 

    Loading message will display after 2/2 is complete.

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    The ECU upgrade will begin, and the progress of the upgrade will appear on the bar graph. 

    • ECU upgrade part (1/2) will download the upgrade event through the VCI-II.
    • ECU upgrade part (2/2) (F) will upgrade the ECU.
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    CAUTION: Do not touch any of the system buttons (like 'Back', 'Home', 'etc.') while performing ECU Upgrade.
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    After 2/2 ECU Upgrading is 100% complete: 

  10. Turn IGNITION 'OFF'  for ten (10) seconds and then back 'ON'. 
    NOTE: A time counter will appear on the top right.
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  11. Select 'OK'. 
    NOTE: 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.
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    Succeed 

    The ECU Upgrade has successfully completed: 

  12. Select 'OK'. 
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    The 'Notice' pop-up message will display.

  13. Select 'Yes'. 
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  14. Select the upgraded system.
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  15. S/W Upgrade 'Fault Code Searching'  is now complete. Erase any stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) such as EPS, ESC, and TPMS that may have been set during the upgrade.
  16. 'Start'  the engine to confirm normal operation of the vehicle.

MANUAL UPGRADE PROCEDURE

NOTE: The manual upgrade should ONLY be performed if the automatic upgrade fails. 
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 performing manual upgrade.
See table below for 'Manual Mode' passwords.

Manual Mode ECU Upgrade Passwords

Menu Password
  1. Within the ECU Upgrade screen displayed, select Manual Mode. 
  2. Select the ___ system under the System selection menu. Select Upgrade Event #___  and select Upgrade  to continue.
  3. Select the appropriate control unit part number with reference to the ROM ID Information Table above, and select OK. 
  4. Enter the appropriate password from the Manual Mode password table above and select OK. 
  5. The upgrade will begin and the progress of the upgrade will appear on the bar graph.
  6. When instructed on the KDS, turn the ignition OFF  for ten (10) seconds then back on. Select OK. 
  7. Once the upgrade is complete, select OK  to finalize the procedure.
  8. When prompted, select YES  to check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) and erase any DTCs stored such as EPS, ESC, and TPMS that may have been set during the upgrade.
  9. Start the engine to confirm proper operation of the vehicle.

REQUIRED TOOL

Tool Name Figure Comments
KDS
G16336544
Kia Diagnostic System