🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Forte

Sub Model:

Forte5 (Hatchback), Koup (Coupe)

Year:

2010

Engine Variant:

2.0L (GDI and MPI versions)

Platform Code:

TD

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Sedan (Forte), Compact Hatchback (Forte5), Compact Coupe (Koup)

Target Audience:

Younger buyers, budget-conscious consumers seeking value and modern features.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze.

Design:

Sporty and modern styling, especially in Koup and Forte5 variants.

Value Proposition:

Offered a strong combination of features, fuel economy, and price.

Engine Options:

Reliable 2.0L Theta II engine with good fuel efficiency.

📋 Manual Details

Global Coverage:

Primarily North America (USA, Canada)

Region Specific Notes:

May contain regional variations in specifications or emissions.

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Secondary Type:

Repair Manual, Technical Information Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

Downloadable PDF

Searchability:

Full text searchable

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine control (ECM), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic)

Chassis:

Braking system (ABS, EBD, ESC), steering system, suspension system (front & rear), wheel and tire specifications

Electrical:

Body control module (BCM), lighting systems (interior & exterior), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), instrument cluster, HVAC controls, infotainment system wiring, fuse box diagrams

Body:

Body exterior and interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, body repair procedures

Maintenance:

Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair:

Engine component removal and installation, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair

Assembly Disassembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications for all major components.

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)

Diagnostic Tools:

Specifies use of Kia's GDS (Global Diagnostic System) or compatible OBD-II scanners.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

File Size:

Varies, typically several hundred MB to over 1 GB for complete FSMs.

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text.

Diagram Clarity:

Technical drawings and illustrations are precise and easy to follow.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Theta II G4KD (MPI), Theta II G4GC (MPI for some markets), G4FC (1.6L - not applicable here)

Displacement:

1998 cc (2.0 Liters)

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves

Horsepower:

Approximately 156-165 hp @ 6200 rpm (depending on specific engine variant and market)

Torque:

Approximately 144-147 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (depending on specific engine variant and market)

Redline:

~6500 rpm

Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

~13.0 US gallons

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle (with Shiftronic on some trims)

Manual Clutch:

Hydraulic clutch actuation

Automatic Controls:

Electronic control unit (ECU) for shift logic

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W/85 or 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (consult manual for exact specs and part numbers, e.g., Kia Genuine Oil 00200-00030 or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or SP-IV (consult manual for exact specs and part numbers, e.g., Kia Genuine ATF 00228-00049 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

~178.7 in (4539 mm)

Length Hatchback:

~171.9 in (4365 mm)

Length Coupe:

~177.0 in (4496 mm)

Width:

~70.1 in (1780 mm)

Height:

~57.0-57.3 in (1448-1455 mm) (sedan/coupe), ~57.5 in (1460 mm) (hatchback)

Wheelbase:

~104.3 in (2650 mm)

Trunk Volume Sedan:

~14.7 cu ft (416 L)

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

~19.4 cu ft (550 L) (seats up), ~47.7 cu ft (1350 L) (seats down)

Curb Weight:

~2850 - 3050 lbs (1293 - 1383 kg) (depending on body style and transmission)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Consult vehicle VIN plate

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for sedan)

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star (for sedan)

IIHS Rollover:

Good (for models equipped with ESC)

Electronic Stability Control Esc:

Standard on all trims for 2010 model year.

Anti-Lock Braking System ABS:

Standard

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Ebd:

Standard

Brake Assist System Bas:

Standard

Airbags:

Front, front side, and full-length side curtain airbags (standard on most trims).

Seatbelts:

3-point active front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input and USB port (on higher trims). Optional premium audio system available.

Navigation:

Optional touch-screen navigation system available on higher trims.

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity available on select trims.

Rear Parking Sensors:

Optional on some trims.

Backup Camera:

Not typically available for the 2010 model year.

Usb Port:

Available on select trims for audio playback and device charging.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard on most audio systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) with original iridium plugs.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 52,500 miles (84,000 km) or 5 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 certified (synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended)

Engine Oil Capacity:

~4.6 US quarts (4.4 Liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Propylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant, or equivalent HOAT coolant - consult manual for P/N)

Engine Hesitation:

Some owners report occasional engine hesitation, potentially related to fuel quality or carbon buildup on intake valves (especially with direct injection versions if applicable to 2010).

Transmission Harsh Shifting:

Less common, but some automatic transmission units might exhibit slightly harsh shifts.

A/C System Performance:

Occasional reports of AC condenser leaks or performance degradation over time.

Brake Wear:

Typical for the segment, front brake pads and rotors may require replacement around 30,000-60,000 miles depending on driving habits.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Evolution:

Kia transitioned from an economy brand to a more style-conscious and feature-rich manufacturer in the 2000s.

First Generation Launch:

The Kia Forte (TD) was introduced for the 2010 model year, replacing the Spectra. It was styled by Peter Schreyer.

Body Styles:

Available as a 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback (Forte5), and 2-door coupe (Koup).

Manufacturing Location:

Hwaseong, South Korea (Donghee Plant); also assembled in other Kia plants globally.

Production Years For Td Platform:

2009-2013

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Achieved good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, contributing to its market appeal.

Value Awards:

Often cited for its strong value proposition and comprehensive feature set for its price point.