How to Update Your Kia With Over-the-Air (OTA) Software Updates

Technology has changed the way we drive, and it’s also changing the way we maintain our vehicles. Today’s Kia vehicles offer advanced infotainment systems, driver-assistance technology, connected services and electronic features that can benefit from software improvements over time.

In the past, updating vehicle software often meant scheduling a dealership visit or manually downloading files. Now, certain Kia models can receive compatible software updates wirelessly through a technology called Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates.

If you own a newer Kia, understanding how these updates work can help you keep supported vehicle systems current without making an unnecessary trip to the dealership.

At Kia of Lincoln, we want our customers to get the most from the technology in their vehicles. Here’s what you should know about Kia’s Over-the-Air updates, how to install them and what to do if you experience a problem.

What Are Kia Over-the-Air Software Updates?

Over-the-Air updates allow compatible Kia vehicles to receive certain software improvements through a wireless connection.

Think about how your smartphone occasionally receives updates that improve performance, correct problems or introduce new functionality. OTA technology brings a similar concept to supported systems in your vehicle.

Depending on your Kia’s model, model year and equipment, OTA updates may apply to infotainment functions, navigation-related software or certain vehicle controllers.

Kia identifies supported vehicle-controller updates that may involve systems such as battery management, electric motors, powertrain controls, driver-assistance functions and lighting. Not every Kia supports updates to all of these systems.

The purpose is to help keep eligible software current without requiring a dealership visit for every compatible update.

Step 1: Make Sure Your Kia Supports OTA Updates

Before attempting to install an update, determine whether your vehicle supports the technology.

OTA capability depends on the Kia model, model year, trim, infotainment hardware and connected-service eligibility.

Some older Kia vehicles may support manual navigation or infotainment updates without supporting automatic wireless installation.

You can review your owner’s manual, check the Kia Owners Portal or contact Kia of Lincoln for assistance identifying the update capabilities of your particular vehicle.

You can also visit Kia’s official OTA Software Update information page for more details.

Step 2: Allow Your Kia to Download the Update

For supported OTA vehicle software updates, the process generally begins automatically.

When a compatible update becomes available, the vehicle can download the software wirelessly while you’re driving.

You typically don’t need to search for the update or connect a USB drive.

Once the download is complete, eligible connected vehicles may also send a notification to your smartphone.

It’s important to understand that downloading and installing are two different steps.

Your Kia can download an update while you’re driving, but certain vehicle software updates must wait until the vehicle is safely parked and turned off before installation begins.

Step 3: Follow the Installation Prompt

After a compatible update has downloaded, your Kia may display an installation prompt when you turn off the vehicle.

The infotainment screen will provide information about the update, including an estimated installation time.

You’ll generally have the option to begin installation or postpone it until a more convenient time.

For supported vehicle-controller OTA updates, Kia specifies several conditions that must be met before installation:

• The transmission must be in Park.
• The exterior lights must be turned off.
• The parking brake must be engaged.
• The hood must be closed.

Follow the exact instructions displayed by your vehicle, as procedures can vary by update and model.

Step 4: Allow the Update to Finish

This is one of the most important parts of the process.

Your Kia may be temporarily unavailable for driving while certain OTA software updates are being installed.

That’s why you should choose a safe, secure parking location and make sure you won’t need the vehicle immediately.

Depending on the update, the process may take different amounts of time.

Kia also notes that certain vehicle functions, including electric-vehicle charging and Vehicle-to-Load functionality on applicable models, may be unavailable during some software installations.

Don’t attempt to interrupt the update or operate the vehicle while the installation is underway.

For supported updates, you generally don’t need to remain inside the vehicle during installation.

Step 5: Confirm the Update Was Completed

Once installation finishes, your Kia may display a completion message and information about what changed.

On supported systems, the infotainment screen can provide a summary of the update and a QR code that allows you to review additional details.

Eligible connected vehicles may also send a smartphone notification confirming completion.

Take a moment to review the information. It can help you understand whether the update involved improvements, changes to vehicle functionality or other software adjustments.

What If You Don’t Want to Install the Update Right Away?

Sometimes the timing simply isn’t convenient.

Maybe you’ve arrived at work and expect to need the vehicle again shortly. Perhaps you’re stopping at a store and don’t want to leave the vehicle unavailable during an installation.

For eligible updates, Kia may allow you to postpone installation.

The vehicle can remind you again at a later shutdown.

However, don’t ignore important software updates indefinitely, especially if Kia identifies an update as addressing a safety-related or operational concern.

Also remember that OTA updates do not replace the need to respond to recalls, service campaigns or maintenance requirements that call for dealer attention.

What If Your Kia Isn’t Receiving Updates?

There are several possible explanations.

Your vehicle may not support that type of OTA update, an update may not be available for your specific software version, or the vehicle may not have completed its download.

Connectivity or eligibility issues can also affect the process.

Kia additionally warns that devices connected to the vehicle’s diagnostic port can interfere with certain OTA update procedures. Battery disconnection can also affect update readiness.

If you’re having difficulty, avoid repeatedly changing vehicle settings or disconnecting electrical components in an attempt to force an update.

Instead, review Kia’s official instructions or ask a qualified technician for assistance.

Can You Still Update a Kia Without OTA Capability?

Yes. Some Kia vehicles that don’t support automatic OTA updates may still support manual infotainment or navigation software updates.

The procedure can involve downloading approved software to compatible storage media and following model-specific instructions.

These updates are different from the vehicle-controller OTA process described above.

Always use Kia’s official update resources and verify compatibility before installing software.

Using the wrong files or interrupting an update can cause problems.

Are OTA Updates the Same as Kia Connect?

Not exactly.

Kia Connect is a collection of connected vehicle services that may include remote functions, vehicle information and other features depending on equipment and subscription eligibility.

OTA software updates are a method of delivering compatible software improvements to supported vehicle systems.

The two technologies can work together, but they aren’t interchangeable. Having one connected feature doesn’t automatically mean every type of OTA update is available on your vehicle.

Need Help Updating Your Kia?

If you’re unsure whether your Kia supports OTA updates, have questions about a notification or need assistance understanding your vehicle’s software, Kia of Lincoln is here to help.

Our team can help you identify the appropriate resources and determine whether your concern requires a dealership visit.

Keeping your Kia current is another way to get the most from the technology already built into your vehicle.

Discover More Kia Technology at Kia of Lincoln

At Kia of Lincoln, we’re here to help drivers throughout Lincoln and southeastern Nebraska enjoy the latest Kia technology.

Browse our current new Kia inventory to explore available models, or use our payment calculator to begin planning your next purchase.

Visit Kia of Lincoln: 8400 S 28th St, Lincoln, NE 68516.

Have questions? Call (402) 434-7000.

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Whether you’re updating your current Kia or discovering the technology available in a new one, we’re here to help.