Segment:
Compact Sedan / Hatchback
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, professional technicians
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze
Vehicle Strengths 2011 Forte:
Value for money, stylish design, decent fuel economy, good feature set for the price
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to maintain and repair the vehicle efficiently and accurately, reducing reliance on dealerships and lowering long-term ownership costs.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, timing, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (AT) service, repair, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls; Manual transmission (MT) service, repair, clutch, gearbox
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) components, drive shafts, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, coil springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, hydraulic fluid specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, brake pads, rotors, calipers, hydraulic lines, ABS system, parking brake
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, sensors, ECUs
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core, blower motor
Restraints:
Airbag system, seatbelts, SRS module diagnostics
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
OBD-II system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Repair:
Component replacement, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, electrical component repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues
Calibration:
Steering angle sensor calibration, idle air control valve relearn procedures
Adjustment:
Valve clearance adjustment (if applicable), parking brake adjustment
Diagnostics:
Component testing, sensor readings, actuator testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to major component overhauls and complex diagnostics
Standard Transmission:
6-speed manual transmission (M6GF2)
Optional Transmission:
6-speed automatic transmission (A6GF1)
Automatic Features:
Sportmatic® manual shifting mode
Manual Features:
Standard clutch operation
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:
4-Star Overall (for 2011 model year, specific configuration dependent)
IIHS Crash Test Performance:
Good in front and side impact tests
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esc:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Brake Assist:
Brake Assist System (BAS)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Infotainment System:
Standard audio system with CD, MP3, SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability, and auxiliary input. Optional premium audio and navigation systems available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Standard features include ABS, ESC, Traction Control, and optional rearview camera on some trims. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.
Connectivity Options:
USB port and auxiliary audio input for device connectivity. Bluetooth hands-free calling available on some trims.
Oil Change Interval Conventional:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months (refer to owner's manual for specific recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Long-life iridium-tipped spark plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per severe service schedule
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Engine Oil Type:
API SN, ILSAC GF-5 certified, SAE 5W-20
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green) - mixture of 50/50 with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (if specified for hydraulic systems, or consult manual for specific ATF type)
Engine Issues:
Occasional reports of oil consumption, potential carbon buildup in intake valves, timing chain noise (rare, but covered in manual)
Transmission Issues:
Some users report rough shifting in automatic transmission; manual clutch wear is typical with usage
Suspension Issues:
Strut mount wear, ball joint wear can occur over time
Electrical Issues:
Infrequent issues with battery drain or sensor failures; manual provides diagnostic paths