🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Cerato

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

TD

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Kia Cerato (also known as Kia Forte in some markets) is a compact/small family car that competed in a highly competitive segment against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, and Ford Focus. It was positioned as a value-oriented option offering modern styling and features.

Competitive Analysis:

The 2012 Cerato offered a good balance of features, fuel economy, and a stylish exterior. Its primary strengths were often its aggressive pricing and a decent warranty package, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and well-equipped vehicle.

Key Features:

The 2012 model year saw the Cerato as part of its second generation (BD). Key features often included a choice of efficient 4-cylinder engines, available in sedan and coupe (Koup) body styles, and a range of modern amenities depending on the trim level, such as alloy wheels, power accessories, and climate control.

Body Styles:

Available primarily as a 4-door Sedan. In some markets, a 2-door Coupe variant (Cerato Koup/Forte Koup) was also offered, which might have minor differences covered in specialized sections.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full Service, Repair, Overhaul, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, lighting, engine control, body electronics, and audio systems.

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Driveline, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear, ABS, EBD), Wheels & Tires, Body & Frame, Interior & Exterior Trim, HVAC System, Electrical System, Body Control Modules, Lighting, Audio System, SRS (Airbag) System, Anti-theft System, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Body Electrical:

Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), Power windows, Power mirrors, Central locking, Wiper/Washer system, Horn, Fuses, Relays, Battery, Alternator, Starter motor, Body control modules (BCM).

HVAC System:

Air Conditioning (AC) system operation, Refrigerant charging, Compressor service, Evaporator and Condenser service, Heater core replacement, Blower motor service, Control panel diagnostics.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), Rear suspension (torsion beam or multi-link depending on variant), Wheel bearings, Steering rack and pinion, Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), Alignment specifications.

Ignition System:

Spark plug replacement and specifications, Ignition coil testing and replacement, Crankshaft position sensor, Camshaft position sensor diagnosis.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Tune-Ups, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Component Removal & Installation, Engine Assembly/Disassembly, Transmission Rebuilds, Brake Service, Suspension Overhaul, Steering System Repair, Electrical Component Testing & Repair, Body Panel Repair, HVAC Servicing, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications, Wiring Diagrams

Body Repair:

Front/Rear bumper removal/installation, Door panel removal/installation, Fender removal/installation, Hood removal/installation, Trunk lid removal/installation, Glass replacement procedures, Seam sealing, Undercoating application.

Engine Performance:

Fuel pressure testing, Injector testing and cleaning, Ignition timing adjustment (if applicable), Idle speed control, Emission control system diagnosis, Check Engine Light (CEL) troubleshooting.

Brakes Service:

Brake pad replacement, Brake rotor replacement, Brake caliper service, Brake line and hose replacement, ABS component testing (wheel speed sensors, ABS module), Parking brake adjustment.

Fuel System Repair:

Fuel pump testing and replacement, Fuel filter replacement (in-tank or external), Fuel injector testing and replacement, Fuel pressure regulator diagnosis.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners, including engine components, suspension parts, brake components, and wheel lug nuts.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance and routine checks to in-depth engine and transmission overhaul, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Detailed explanation of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for all major systems, including recommended diagnostic steps and testing procedures for specific codes.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically, PDF manuals of this nature are text-searchable, allowing quick access to specific information.

Print Quality:

High Resolution, Suitable for Printing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.6L Gamma G4FC MPI Inline-4 (Petrol)

Secondary Engine:

2.0L Theta II G4NC MPI Inline-4 (Petrol) - Available on higher trims/certain markets

Horsepower 1.6L:

Approx. 120-128 hp @ 6300 rpm (market dependent)

Torque 1.6L:

Approx. 115-120 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm (market dependent)

Horsepower 2.0L:

Approx. 156-160 hp @ 6200 rpm (market dependent)

Torque 2.0L:

Approx. 145-148 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (market dependent)

Fuel System:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Management:

ECU controlled ignition and fuel injection

Engine Control Unit:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) identification and basic function, with information relevant to diagnostic procedures.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Later models and some markets may offer a 6-speed automatic)

Transmission Features:

Manual: Synchromesh on all gears. Automatic: Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2650 mm (104.3 inches)

Length:

Approx. 4530 mm (178.3 inches) for sedan

Width:

Approx. 1780 mm (70.1 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 inches) for sedan

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2755-2976 lbs) depending on engine and trim

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

May vary by market and specific test results. Early models of the second generation received mixed results in some categories. The manual would contain specific crash test data for the relevant region.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) - Standard or Optional depending on trim and market.

Passive Features:

Front Airbags (Driver & Passenger), Side Airbags (Optional), Curtain Airbags (Optional), Seatbelt Pretensioners, Active Head Restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Base models typically featured a basic AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input and USB ports. Higher trims could include satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and potentially a more advanced sound system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard driver assistance features were limited, primarily including ABS and EBD. Higher trims might have offered cruise control. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or automatic emergency braking were not typically available on this model.

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input jack, USB port (on some trims), Bluetooth hands-free phone system (on some trims).

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Typical intervals for oil changes: 7,500 miles or 6 months. Air filter, cabin filter, spark plugs, and transmission fluid service would have longer, specific intervals detailed in the manual (e.g., 30,000-60,000 miles for spark plugs, 60,000-100,000 miles for transmission fluid depending on usage).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SN or ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (confirm with manual for specific engine variant)

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, specified capacity (e.g., 6.7 Liters / 7.1 Quarts for 1.6L engine)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (as specified in manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (manual will specify exact type and capacity)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil (specific viscosity as per manual, e.g., 75W-90)

Power Steering Fluid:

Specific power steering fluid type as per manufacturer's recommendation, often ATF Dexron III or equivalent for hydraulic systems.

Known Issues:

Common issues for this generation can include premature wear on certain suspension components, occasional electrical gremlins (especially related to infotainment or sensors), and potential issues with the catalytic converter over time. The manual provides troubleshooting for these.

Oil Filter Example:

Part numbers can vary by manufacturer (e.g., Kia Genuine: 26300-35056, aftermarket equivalents like Wix 57502, Fram PH7317 - always verify with VIN)

Air Filter Example:

Part numbers can vary by manufacturer (e.g., Kia Genuine: 28113-1R100, aftermarket equivalents like Fram CA10520 - always verify with VIN)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Kia Motors, a South Korean manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944. The brand has undergone significant transformation in recent decades, evolving from a budget-focused marque to a global player known for design, quality, and technological advancements.

Model Evolution:

The Cerato/Forte line was introduced in 2003 as a replacement for the Sephia. The 2010-2013 model represented the second generation (BD), which was a significant step up in terms of styling, refinement, and features compared to its predecessor, heavily influenced by Kia's design language under Peter Schreyer.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Hwaseong Plant) and also in Russia and Malaysia depending on the market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Kia Cerato/Forte has received various accolades over its production run, often cited for its value, styling, and warranty. Specific awards for the 2012 model would vary by region and publication. The manual's inclusion of detailed technical data empowers owners to maintain these recognized qualities.