🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Cerato

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

TD

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Kia Cerato (also known as Forte in some markets) of this generation was positioned as a compact car offering good value for money, competitive features, and a stylish design, aiming to compete with established players in its segment.

Key Competitors:

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

Highlighted Features:

The 2012 Cerato was known for its stylish exterior, comfortable interior, decent fuel economy, and a range of available features, often at a competitive price point.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Adjustments, Installation, Removal, Disassembly, Assembly

Total Pages:

1257

Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full engine repair, overhaul, diagnostics, specifications, component replacement (e.g., timing belt/chain, seals, gaskets, pistons, valves)

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, evaporative emission control (EVAP)

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, ignition timing, electronic control unit (ECU) integration

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan assembly, coolant specifications and capacity

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, oxygen sensors, emissions control components

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation, gearbox removal/installation, internal component repair, fluid specifications

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, solenoids, transmission fluid change and fill procedures, diagnostics

Drivetrain Frontend:

CV joints, drive axles, wheel bearings, hub assemblies

Drivetrain Rear:

Rear axle components (if applicable), differential (if applicable)

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, coil springs, shock absorbers

Suspension Rear:

Trailing arms, multi-link suspension (if applicable), shock absorbers, coil springs

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack/gearbox, steering column, tie rods, fluid specifications

Brakes Front:

Brake calipers, brake pads, brake discs/rotors, brake lines, ABS components

Brakes Rear:

Brake calipers/wheel cylinders, brake shoes/pads, brake drums/discs, parking brake mechanism, brake lines, ABS components

Brake Control Systems:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), ESC (Electronic Stability Control) diagnostics and component replacement

Electrical System General:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, bulb specifications and replacement

Instrument Panel Gauges:

Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights, instrument cluster diagnostics

Climate Control System:

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, evaporator, condenser, compressor, blower motor, refrigerant, cabin air filter replacement

Body Exterior:

Body panels (doors, hood, trunk, fenders), bumpers, mirrors, door handles, window mechanisms, seals

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, trim pieces, seat belts, airbags (see safety)

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system components, seat belt pre-tensioners, SRS warning light diagnostics, replacement procedures

Infotainment Audio:

Radio, speakers, audio system components, basic troubleshooting

Diagnostics OBD Ii:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, sensor testing

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-ups

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic troubleshooting flowcharts for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics

Component Removal Installation:

Detailed steps for removing and installing all major and minor vehicle components

Disassembly Assembly:

Step-by-step procedures for dismantling and reassembling engines, transmissions, and other complex assemblies

Adjustments:

Calibration of sensors, alignment procedures (wheel alignment specifications), clutch adjustment (if applicable)

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive torque charts for all fasteners and critical assembly points

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems

Special Tool Usage:

Identification and illustration of required special service tools for specific repair operations

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution PDF, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing for physical copies for workshop use.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

Os Compatibility:

Windows, Mac, Linux OS

Software Requirement:

Adobe Reader

Completeness Statement:

100% complete and intact, no missing or corrupt pages/sections.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variant Common:

G4FC (1.6 Gamma) and G4KD (2.0 Nu) Inline-4 gasoline engines.

1.6L Horsepower:

Approximately 120-130 hp (varies slightly by market and specific tuning).

1.6L Torque:

Approximately 115-125 lb-ft (varies).

2.0L Horsepower:

Approximately 150-160 hp (varies).

2.0L Torque:

Approximately 140-150 lb-ft (varies).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves.

Bore Stroke 1.6L:

Approx. 77.0 mm x 85.4 mm

Bore Stroke 2.0L:

Approx. 81.0 mm x 97.0 mm

Compression Ratio 1.6L:

Approx. 10.5:1

Compression Ratio 2.0L:

Approx. 10.0:1

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual (often for 1.6L models)

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic (often for 1.6L and 2.0L models)

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

Refer to manual for specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type; typically a proprietary Kia fluid.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch (for manual transmissions)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4530 mm (178.3 in)

Width:

Approx. 1780 mm (70.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2650 mm (104.3 in)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 1250 kg (2756 lbs) for base models.

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs) for higher trim/engine models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Generally rated 4 out of 5 stars for frontal impact (driver) in relevant markets.

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Generally rated 4 out of 5 stars for frontal impact (passenger) in relevant markets.

IIHS Small Overlap Front:

IIHS ratings vary by year and testing methodology; consult specific IIHS reports for the 2012 model year.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ebs:

Optional Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)

Esc:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)

Airbags Front:

Standard dual front airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, front seatbelt pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input and USB port. Higher trims may include Bluetooth connectivity and enhanced speaker systems.

Parking Aids:

Optional rear parking sensors on some higher trim levels.

Bluetooth:

Available on select trims for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Keyless Entry Start:

Available keyless entry and push-button start on higher trim models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.

Engine Air Filter Interval:

Recommended replacement every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.

Cabin Air Filter Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Refer to manual; for Iridium-tipped plugs, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km).

Timing Belt Chain Replacement:

The 1.6L Gamma and 2.0L Nu engines typically use a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine and does not have a scheduled replacement interval, though inspection is recommended.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual; typically SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30, API SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4 or higher.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Use of a long-life coolant (e.g., P-HOAT or OAT type) is recommended. Consult manual for specific Kia-approved coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to manual; typically a specific hydraulic power steering fluid or Dexron III ATF.

Common Problems:

Some reported issues can include intermittent electrical problems (e.g., power window failures), minor engine oil leaks from seals, and potential wear on suspension components over time. The manual would detail diagnostic procedures for these and other potential issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Heritage:

Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, has a long history in automotive manufacturing, initially producing motorcycles and trucks before entering the passenger car market with notable models like the Pride and Sephia. The company has undergone significant transformation and growth, particularly since the late 1990s and early 2000s, focusing on design, quality, and global market expansion.

Cerato Generation:

The 2012 Kia Cerato belongs to the second generation (TD), which was produced from 2008 to 2013. This generation saw a significant redesign with more modern styling and improved features compared to its predecessor.

Manufacturing Locations:

Kia Cerato models were manufactured in various Kia plants globally, including South Korea, and potentially others depending on the target market (e.g., Slovakia for European markets, Malaysia).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Performance:

While not consistently winning major awards, the Cerato (Forte) was often recognized for its value, styling, and improvement in quality and features within the compact car segment during its production run.