C1697 on Kia: How to Diagnose & Fix
Manufacturer-Specific Chassis/Camera System Fault
1 Kia model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical
C1697 on Kia by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
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. 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
- FCA warning light remaining on after phantom brake event
How to Fix
Ask a Kia dealer to check the VIN for any available forward-safety (FCA) software 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.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (3)
- 2021 KIA K5 Forward Collision Avoidance Automatic Emergency Braking Problemsowner-complaint (NHTSA complaint mirror)
- 2021 KIA K5 Forward Collision Avoidance Problemsowner-complaint (NHTSA complaint mirror)
- 2022 KIA K5 Forward Collision Avoidance Warnings Problemsowner-complaint (NHTSA complaint mirror)
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 on a Kia?
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. On Kia it is documented across 1 model: K5.
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 on a Kia?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Kia model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.