U1110 on Kia: How to Diagnose & Fix
Network Communication Fault (manufacturer-specific; commonly Lost Vehicle Speed Message)
2 Kia models · 2 documented issues
U1110 on Kia by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The infotainment head unit in 2020+ Sportages enters a continuous reboot loop or freezes on the splash screen, leaving the driver without navigation, backup camera, and climate controls (on models with touchscreen-only HVAC). The issue is caused by software bugs and insufficient system memory for the connected services. Firmware updates from Kia have improved but not fully resolved the issue. The problem often occurs after USB device connection or Bluetooth pairing.
Common Symptoms
- Touchscreen continuously rebooting with Kia logo
- Screen frozen and unresponsive to touch
- Backup camera not displaying when in reverse
- Bluetooth disconnecting and reconnecting repeatedly
- Climate controls unresponsive on touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto crashing
How to Fix
Perform a hard reset by pressing and holding the power/volume knob for 10 seconds. If the reboot loop persists, disconnect the vehicle battery for 30 minutes to fully reset the head unit. Visit a Kia dealer for the latest infotainment software update (free under warranty). If the issue continues after the latest firmware, the head unit may need hardware replacement. Avoid connecting USB drives with large music libraries (1000+ songs) which overwhelm the system.
Sources for this issue (1)
The K5 infotainment system — both the 8-inch and 10.25-inch displays — experiences random screen blackouts, freezes, and spontaneous reboots. The screen may go completely black while driving, losing access to navigation, backup camera, and climate controls. Some owners report the system rebooting in a loop. The issue is typically software-related but can also be caused by a failing display head unit. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connections can trigger or worsen the problem.
Common Symptoms
- Infotainment screen goes completely black while driving
- System freezes and becomes unresponsive to touch
- Screen reboots with Kia logo repeatedly
- Backup camera unavailable when in reverse
- Bluetooth audio cutting out
- Climate controls unresponsive on touchscreen-only models
How to Fix
First try a system reset by holding the power/volume knob for 10+ seconds. Visit a Kia dealer for the latest infotainment software update — Kia has released multiple updates addressing stability issues (check for updates via the Kia Connect app or USB update). If the software update does not resolve the issue, the head unit may need replacement under warranty ($800-$2,000 if out of warranty). Disconnect the phone and disable wireless CarPlay/Android Auto to test if the issue is phone-related. A factory reset of the infotainment (Settings > General > Reset) can also help.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipBefore going to the dealer, try a USB software update. Download the latest navigation/infotainment update from the Kia owners portal, put it on a USB drive, and install it. Many blackout issues are fixed by the latest software.
- TipIf the screen goes black, hold the power knob for 10 seconds to force a reboot. This is faster than disconnecting the battery and usually restores the system immediately.
Sources for this issue (1)
U1110 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 U1110 mean on a Kia?
U1110 stands for "Network Communication Fault (manufacturer-specific; commonly Lost Vehicle Speed Message)." U1110 is a manufacturer-specific network (U) code, so its exact meaning varies by automaker. It generally indicates a data-bus communication problem; on several makes (such as Chrysler and Ford) it is associated with a lost or invalid vehicle speed message, meaning a module did not receive the expected speed data over the network. Loss of this data can affect modules that rely on vehicle speed, sometimes causing speedometer, cruise, or related symptoms. The specific definition should be confirmed against the vehicle's service information. On Kia it is documented across 2 models: Sportage, K5.
What are the most common causes of U1110?
The most common causes of U1110 are: Wiring or connector fault on the communication bus, Faulty source module (e.g., ABS module sending speed data), Loss of power or ground to a networked module, Corroded connector pins, Bus wiring short or open, Faulty receiving control module. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix U1110 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.
Looking for U1110 on a different make?
View U1110 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.