Kia's Rough Idle

This bulletin applies to 2014-2015 Kia Cadenza vehicles equipped with a 3.3L GDI (gasoline direct injection) engine.

This bulletin applies to 2014-2015 Kia Cadenza vehicles equipped with a 3.3L GDI (gasoline direct injection) engine. When addressing a customer complaint of a rough idle, which occurs only at the first start of the day and lasts for about 30-45 seconds, check for the possibility of poor injector performance in a particular cylinder. This concern may feel like a misfire. However, it is not an emission or catalyst-damaging misfire, and it does not typically trigger any DTCs.

To diagnose this concern, go to KDS > Data Analysis > Engine and monitor for current misfire counts on all six cylinders during the first cold start in the morning to assist in determining which cylinder is responsible for the rough idle conditions. Replace only the injector for the affected cylinder. To verify the repair, recheck again after an overnight cold soak to make sure that the rough idle is no longer present.

About the Author

Mike Mavrigian

Motor Age Editor

Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of  specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.

Information courtesy of Mitchell 1

Information for Technical Service Bulletins comes from ProDemand, Mitchell 1's auto repair information software for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in San Diego, Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry since 1918.

Sign up for Vehicle Service Pros Newsletters
Get the latest news and updates.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!