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While searching for information on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) on an OEM repair information site, you may come across unique calibration procedures or events. These events can vary by year and model, even within a particular make. As the RTS team has been researching these systems, we have been identifying these atypical circumstances. In order to help you better understand them, we are putting together a series of articles that help with the repair and calibration of ADAS. Let’s take a closer look at Hyundai variant coding procedures.
While viewing calibration or replacement procedures on the Hyundai service site, you may notice that variant coding is sometimes required. The most common inputs that require this coding are forward-facing cameras and radar sensors. This makes you wonder, "What is variant coding, and why do I need to perform this procedure?"
Variant coding is a procedure in which a new sensor/module or camera is introduced to the vehicle via the use of a scan tool. This essentially allows the vehicle to recognize that there is a new part taking the place of an old one. If the variant coding procedure is not performed, the sensor/module or camera may not function properly and will likely set diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). If the component cannot work or communicate properly, then the system that the component belongs to may not function as designed.
Let’s take the adaptive cruise control sensor as an example. Hyundai refers to this sensor by the following names:
- Smart Cruise Control unit (SCC)
- Autonomous Emergency Braking unit (AEB)
- Forward Collision Avoidance unit (FCA)
When this radar sensor is ordered, it comes pre-coded from the factory. This does not mean that the sensor will automatically connect and communicate with your vehicle. This is because the coding from the factory does not necessarily match the conditions of the vehicle being repaired. This will set a variant coding DTC, allowing the technician to know the procedure needs to be performed.
Always perform this procedure when it is presented in the service manual, or if there is a variant coding DTC, so that the systems of the vehicle can function properly. Variant coding information may be located in the repair procedures or even in the calibration procedures.
It is important to always follow OEM procedures for repairs and calibration. Finding this information quickly and efficiently contributes to a complete, safe, and quality repair.
For additional Hyundai information, check out the Hyundai OEM Information page.
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Article validated in 2025