2021 Kia Forte EXFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Repair Procedures: Replacement

NOTE:
  • If a DTC occurs in the ECU, check the connectors and wiring. If no problem is found, replace the ECU.
  • Before replacing the MDPS ECU, use the diagnostic device to read the settings of the old ECU
  1. Perform the "ECU data backup" by KDS following in the order below.
    1. Connect self-diagnosis connector (16pins) located under the driver side crash pad to self-diagnosis device, and then turn the self-diagnosis device after key is ON.
    2. Select the "vehicle model" and "Motor Driven Power Steering" on KDS vehicle selection screen.
    3. Select the "Part replacement (Power steering ECU)" on KDS screen, then select OK.
      G13304681Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    4. Proceed with the test according to the screen instructions.
    G13304682Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    G13304683Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    G13304684Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    G13304685Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    G13304686Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    NOTE: If a DTC occurs in the ECU, check the connectors and wiring. If no problem is found, replace the ECU.
  2. Disconnect the battery negative terminal.
  3. Remove the crash pad lower panel.

    (Refer to Body - "CRASH PAD LOWER PANEL ")

  4. Disconnect the MDPS ECU connectors (A).
    G13304687Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
  5. Loosen the mounting bolts (A) and then remove the MDPS ECU (B).

    Tightening torque: 

    19.6 - 23.5 N.m (2.0 - 2.4 kgf.m, 14.5 - 17.4 lb.ft)

    G13304688Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
  6. Install in the reverse order of removal.
  7. Perform the "ECU data restore" by KDS following in the order below.
    1. Connect self-diagnosis connector (16pins) located under the driver side crash pad to self-diagnosis device, and then turn the self-diagnosis device after key is ON.
    2. Select the "vehicle model" and "Motor Driven Power Steering" on KDS vehicle selection screen.
    3. Select the "Part replacement (Power steering ECU)" on KDS screen, then select OK.
      G13304689Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    4. Proceed with the test according to the screen instructions.
    G13304690Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    G13304691Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    G13304692Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    G13304693Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    G13304694Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
  8. Perform the "STEERING ANGLE SENSOR (SAS) CALIBRATION AND SET THE STEERING FEEL TORQUE TO ZERO ".
  9. Turn off the IGN switch and wait for 10 seconds or more. Then check the operation after starting the engine.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.