C1697 on 2021-2024 Kia K5 — Manufacturer-Specific Chassis/Camera System Fault
1 vehicles · 1 makes
How to diagnose and fix C1697: most-reported vehicles
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Kia K5 · 2021–2024
Multiple K5 owners and NHTSA complaints document unexpected, uninitiated hard braking events triggered by the Forward Collision Avoidance Assist system in the absence of any actual obstacle. These phantom braking events occur most commonly on highways, elevated roads, or in areas with overhead signs, bridges, or guardrails that the front radar and camera system misidentifies as collision threats. The issue represents a safety concern as following vehicles may be unable to react in time, increasing rear-end collision risk.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden hard braking with no obstacle present
- Forward Collision Warning alert with no vehicle or object ahead
- FCA system activating on bridges, overpasses, or metal guardrails
- Brake lights activating unexpectedly at highway speeds
- FCA warning light remaining on after phantom brake event
How to Fix
Kia has released multiple FCA software calibration updates through dealer reprogramming to improve object discrimination and reduce false positives. TSB reference DAS-007 addresses radar and camera fusion logic updates. Owners should have the forward radar sensor (part of the front bumper radar module) and windshield camera inspected for alignment. In persistent cases, FCA can be temporarily disabled via the Driver Assistance menu, though this is not recommended as a permanent fix.
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C1697 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does C1697 mean?
C1697 stands for "Manufacturer-Specific Chassis/Camera System Fault." C1697 is a manufacturer-specific chassis code; on some vehicles it has been associated with the panoramic/around-view camera or parking assist system rather than a core braking function. In general it indicates the module detected a fault with a connected sensor, camera, or circuit in a chassis-related convenience/driver-assist system. Because the meaning varies by maker and the code is not well documented, confirm the exact definition and affected component using the factory service manual.
What are the most common causes of C1697?
The most common causes of C1697 are: Faulty camera or parking-assist sensor, Damaged wiring or connectors, Camera/sensor needs calibration or alignment, Corrosion or water intrusion at connectors, Parking assist / driver-assist control module fault, Low system voltage or poor ground. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix C1697?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and vehicle.
Which vehicles are affected by C1697?
Au7o has documented C1697 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Kia.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.