KIA Transmission Reset – Will It Help You Solve the Problems?

Transmission reset in Kia vehicles is designed to improve shift quality and prevent transmission-related problems. When the system is reset, it clears any stored codes and returns the transmission to its default settings. This can help improve shift quality, prevent transmission slippage, and reduce wear on the transmission components.

Automatic transmission malfunction highlights

• Level of importance:Medium
• Reasons:Electronic control problems, shifter issues, sensor-related issues
• Needed expertise:High
• Needed tools:Professional tools set
• Time taken:1-8 hours
• Can you drive? Not recommended
• Possible issues: Fatal damage, overheating, torque converter damage, TCU damage.

Things to Remember Before Going Through the Process

There are things that you should remember when treading this path in solving certain transmission-related problems though. These include:

• First and foremost, this only applies to transmission issues that can be directly traced back to the way your transmission control module (TCM) and engine control module (ECM) operate.
• Second, this requires basic technical knowledge and access to software capable of performing such an operation.
• Third, it should not serve as a solution to a mechanical component in the transmission system that is already malfunctioning due to poor quality or damage.
• Lastly, this comes in handy if you just had your transmission rebuilt or replaced recently, and it could be used to harmoniously integrate a reprogrammed or replaced ECM/PCM.

How to Do a Transmission Reset in Kia Vehicles

Before going further, do note that resetting the transmission values of your Kia car is better performed by a trained car technician as glitches along the way can disrupt the process and may result in more mess in your transmission configuration. Such a scenario may lead to damage to the mechanical components of your car. With that, proceed only if you understand the risks.

Resetting the transmission values of your Kia car is fairly easy with the right tool and knowledge. What we will show you here is one way to do it based on an old Technical Service Bulletin released by Kia.

The automaker recommends a GDS kit for this purpose. This tablet-based app is commonly used by Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis dealerships as a basic diagnostic tool. See to it that you have this if you want to try the method shown here.

Other compatible tools can be used for this purpose but there may be a slight variation in the process, so adjust accordingly. Nonetheless, the fundamentals should be almost similar to the ones shown here.

With that out of the way, here are the steps on how to reset the transmission of KIA vehicles:

• Open the GDS interface.
• Enter the VIN menu and provide your vehicle identification number if prompted.
• Select the icon marked as "A/T".
• With the "Automatic Transaxle" already appearing under the column "Selected System", press "OK".
• On the main window, look for the column marked "Vehicle S/W Management" and select "Option Treatment" under its options.
• On the next window under the "Data Treatment" tab, choose "Resetting Auto T/A Values".
• Follow the instructions in the prompt and select "Reset"

If you are resetting the transmission values because you just replaced the transmission or the PCM/ECM, the transmission computer adaptive values must be relearned by driving precisely to "teach" the computer the right solenoid duty and line pressure for the new transmission/computer combination. However, if you are simply resetting the values of your transmission unit other than the reason stated here, then you may skip this.

Follow the next steps to proceed:

• Open the "Diagnosis" tab in the main menu located on top of the GDS interface.
• Select "Current Data" in the choices.
• Put a checkmark on the boxes named "Throttle Position Sensor" and "Oil Temperature Sensor".
• Enter the "Graph" tab, which will show you a blue screen to monitor the performance of the selected sensors.
• Start the "Dynamic Test" by driving your vehicle until the ATF temperature is within 86 to 203 degrees Fahrenheit in the graph. Make sure that you are doing this in an open area, preferably on an open track. Also, it should not be in "Sport" mode or in "Cruise Control".
• Put your vehicle on a stop and shift to "D" (Drive) while maintaining a 10% to 20% APS.
• Allow your transmission to cycle from the first to the last gear.
• Reduce speed by gradually lifting your foot from the accelerator pedal without pressing the brake.
• Allow your vehicle to slow down until it stops and apply only the brakes with as little pressure as possible if needed.
• Continue with the "Static Test" while your engine is still at its ideal operating temperature and the idle is at 700 RPM by putting your gear to "D".
• Shift to "P", and then shift in "R", "N", "D", "N", "R", and back to "P".
• The sequence must be repeated up to five times to ensure that the vehicle is shifting properly.

Normally, this is done by your dealership or mechanic if they have made significant repairs or adjustments in your transmission system. So, there's no need to perform this anymore after the process.

Take only the information that you will learn here to familiarize yourself with the procedure. Again, we highly recommend bringing your car to an experienced technician or mechanic as many things can go wrong during the programming and testing phases.

Most Common Kia Transmission Problems You Should Watch Out For

If the reset that you just made failed to solve the issue that you are experiencing with your transmission, then it may be time to check the transmission system itself for possible problems on its parts.

Here are the most common problems found in Kia vehicles as well as their possible solutions:

1. Erratic Shifting

Erratic shifting is a common problem in Kia vehicles. There are several possible causes of this problem, and each one has a different solution.

The most common cause of erratic shifting in Kia cars is a faulty transmission filter. The transmission filter keeps dirt and other contaminants from clogging the gears in the transmission. A dirty or damaged filter can cause the transmission to shift erratically. To fix this problem, the filter must be replaced.

Another possible cause of erratic shifting is low transmission fluid levels. Transmission fluid lubricates the gears in the transmission and helps to keep them cool. If the fluid level is low, the gears can overheat and begin to shift erratically. To fix this problem, the fluid level must be checked and topped off if necessary.

One more possible cause of erratic shifting is a damaged or worn clutch. The clutch is what allows the transmission to engage and disengage from the engine. If the clutch is damaged, it can cause the transmission to shift erratically. To fix this problem, the clutch must be replaced.

If your Kia vehicle is experiencing erratic shifting, it is important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Trying to drive with a faulty transmission can damage the engine and other parts of the car. Once the problem has been diagnosed, the appropriate repair can be made and your Kia will be back on the road in no time.

2. Sudden Shifts to Neutral

If your Kia transmission suddenly or intermittently enters into "Neutral" while in "Drive" mode, there are several potential causes. Again, check the transmission fluid level and condition. If it is low or dirty, topping it off or changing it may solve the issue. If the fluid looks clean but is still low, there may be a leak in the system that will need to be repaired.

Take a look at the shift solenoid also. The shift solenoids control the flow of transmission fluid and tell the transmission when to shift gears. If one of the shift solenoids is not working properly, it can cause the transmission to slip into neutral. Replacing the faulty shift solenoid should fix this problem.

Finally, a worn or damaged transmission input shaft or output shaft can force the transmission to slip into neutral. These parts can wear out over time due to normal wear and tear, or they may be damaged if the transmission is overloaded. If either of these parts needs to be replaced, it will likely require the services of a professional mechanic.

3. Delayed Shifting

There are some reasons that might cause your Kia's transmission to shift slowly. Similar to the factors causing erratic shifting, this can be due to a faulty shift solenoid, low transmission fluid levels, or a dirty transmission filter.

If you're experiencing slow shifting, the first thing you should do is check the transmission fluid level. If it's low, top it off and see if that solves the problem. If the fluid is dirty, flush the system and replace the filter.

Then, inspect the shift solenoid. This part controls the flow of transmission fluid and can become clogged or damaged over time. If you suspect a shift solenoid problem, have it checked by a professional.

Lastly, make sure there's nothing blocking the transmission cooler. If the cooler is blocked, it can cause the fluid to overheat and thicken, making shifting difficult.

If you've tried all of these things and your Kia's transmission is still shifting slowly, it's time to take it to a mechanic for further diagnosis. They'll be able to pinpoint the exact problem and get your car back to running smoothly.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, doing a transmission reset in your Kia has its specific set of benefits. It can fix most calibration and software issues related to your transmission. However, it has its limitations and there are also certain risks associated with it.

Therefore, be sure to seek professional advice from your mechanic or car technician so you will know whether or not it's the most appropriate course of action in dealing with an issue you are experiencing with your car, or better, have them do it at your convenience.