Temporary airbag warning on Kia models

This bulletin involves troubleshooting DTC B1447/B1448/B1764/B1767 on Kia Sorento, Optima and Rio vehicles that are equipped with OCS (electric field occupant classification sensor).

DTC DESCRIPTION

B1447: OC Passenger ECU Defect

B1448: OC Passenger Sensor Mat Defect

B1764: BodySense MAT Defect

B1767: BodySense Algo Cut-Off

MODEL                MODEL YEARS                       PRODUCTION DATES

Sorento (XM)       2011 to current                        all 2011 MY to current

Optima (MG)       2009, 2010                               August 28, 2008, to current

Rio (JB)                2010 to current                        March 3, 2010, to current

The purpose of this TSB is to ensure a proper response to the appearance of certain DTCs that identify a temporary condition. On these vehicles, the occupant detection and classification system uses an electric field sensor instead of a pressure sensor. The customer is advised in the owner’s manual not to place any electronic device on or near the seat cushion because it can defeat the OCS. The electric field sensor is sensitive to interference from certain electronic devices and is also sensitive to a wet seat.

If certain electronic devices such as cellular phones, laptop computers, inverters, DVD players, radio transmitters, GPS navigation systems, satallite radio systems, video games, and MP3 players are placed on or near a passenger seat cushion (including seatback pocket), or if liquid is spilled on the seat cushion, the airbag warning lamp may illuminate with the afore-mentioned DTCs.

Verify that the seat cushions are dry. Verify that nearby electronic devices are turned off. Clear the DTC(s). If the DTC(s) do not re-code, review the warnings listed in the owner’s manual with the customer. If DTC(s) do re-code, proceed with diagnosis according to Service Information on the KGIS.