🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Forte

Year:

2012

Engine:

2.4L

Internal Product Code:

KIAFTE1224SRM

Oem Equivalent Code:

Refer to specific Kia service documentation for exact OEM part numbers

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Sedan/Coupe/Hatchback

Positioning:

Affordable, stylish, and feature-rich alternative in the compact car segment

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus

Design:

Kia's distinctive 'Tiger Nose' grille, modern styling, available in sedan, coupe (Forte Koup), and hatchback (Forte 5-Door) body styles

Value Proposition:

Offers a strong balance of price, features, and warranty coverage

Value For Owners:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level knowledge for accurate diagnostics and repairs, potentially saving significant costs

Value For Business:

Essential tool for automotive repair businesses to ensure efficient and correct servicing, maintaining customer satisfaction and reducing comebacks

📋 Manual Details

Diagnostic Procedures:

Comprehensive, including troubleshooting charts and fault code explanations

Mechanical Repair:

All major mechanical systems

Electrical Systems:

Detailed wiring diagrams and component testing

Body And Chassis:

Structural repair, collision damage assessment, trim replacement

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance and fluid replacement procedures

Estimated Pages:

1500-2500 (typical for comprehensive service manuals, exact count may vary based on final digital compilation)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Target Audience:

Dealership Technicians, Independent Repair Shops, Advanced DIY Enthusiasts

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine diagnostics

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox assembly, shift mechanism, overhaul procedures

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission assembly, valve body, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM), overhaul, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Axles, driveshafts, differential, AWD components (if applicable)

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckles, wheel alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rods, steering column

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, rotor/pad replacement

Electrical Charging System:

Alternator, battery, starter motor, wiring

Electrical Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb replacement, wiring

Electrical Audio Visual:

Radio, speakers, infotainment system, navigation (if equipped)

Electrical Comfort Convenience:

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof

Body Exterior:

Doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, fenders, glass, seals, trim

Body Interior:

Dashboard, seats, carpets, headliner, interior trim panels

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seatbelts, crash sensor locations

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step guides for replacing virtually all components

Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic trees and symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Overhaul Rebuild:

Complete disassembly and reassembly instructions for major components (engine, transmission)

Wiring Diagrams:

High-level and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle systems

Specifications Settings:

Torque specifications, alignment angles, diagnostic parameters

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs

Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers

Diagnostic Tools:

References to diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and typical scan tool data interpretation

Emissions Control:

Detailed explanation of emission control systems and their servicing

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for easy on-site reference

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-4

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2359 cc)

Engine Code:

Theta II G4KC

Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 97.0 mm (approximate)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

173 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE Net)

Torque:

168 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SAE Net)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane

ECU:

Kia Engine Control Unit (ECU) - specific model/part number would be in the manual

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Shiftronic®

Automatic Modes:

Sportmatic manual shifting capability

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent (specific part number in manual)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 7.7 Liters (8.1 Quarts) - refer to manual for exact capacity and fill procedure

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Sedan: ~179.5 inches (4559 mm), Koup: ~171.3 inches (4351 mm), Hatchback: ~169.1 inches (4300 mm)

Width:

Sedan/Koup/Hatchback: ~70.1 inches (1781 mm)

Height:

Sedan: ~57.9 inches (1471 mm), Koup: ~56.1 inches (1425 mm), Hatchback: ~57.0 inches (1450 mm)

Wheelbase:

Sedan/Hatchback: ~104.3 inches (2649 mm), Koup: ~104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by body style and transmission, typically 2800-3100 lbs (1270-1406 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard or manual

Trunk Volume:

Sedan: ~15.1 cu ft (428 L)

Hatchback Cargo Volume:

With rear seats up: ~19.4 cu ft (550 L); With rear seats folded: ~48.8 cu ft (1382 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Likely 4 or 5 Stars (check specific year/model for exact ratings)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Often achieved Top Safety Pick status for its year (check specific model)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution

Esc:

Standard Electronic Stability Control

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-mounted airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability, USB and auxiliary input jacks

Display Screen:

Optional navigation system with touch screen display (specific size varies by trim)

Connectivity:

Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio streaming

Backup Camera:

Available rearview camera integrated into infotainment display

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry system; available push-button start with smart key

Climate Control:

Manual air conditioning standard; available automatic climate control

Heated Seats:

Available heated front seats

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power-folding side mirrors (available)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000-45,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type - iridium recommended for longer life)

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years

Coolant Flush:

Initial flush at 60,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity)

Engine Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol Based Coolant (Pink/Red color, Asian Vehicle Formula) - Refer to manual for specific Kia coolant type

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation)

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual; typically automatic transmission fluid (ATF SP-III/IV) or specific power steering fluid

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some Theta II engines have been known to consume oil; regular checks are advised. The manual provides diagnostic procedures.

Ignition Coil Failures:

Occasional reports of ignition coil issues leading to misfires. The manual details testing and replacement.

Evaporative Emissions System:

Potential for EVAP system leaks (e.g., faulty vent solenoid) triggering check engine lights. Manual covers diagnosis.

Transmission Hesitation:

Some owners report occasional transmission hesitation; the manual offers troubleshooting steps for solenoids and software updates.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Kia Corporation (South Korea)

First Generation:

The Kia Forte (also known as Kia Cerato in some markets) was introduced globally in 2008, replacing the Spectra. The second generation, which includes the 2012 model year, debuted for the 2009 model year in most markets and received a significant refresh for the 2012 model year.

2012 Refresh:

The 2012 model year brought styling updates, revised powertrains (including the introduction of the 2.4L engine option for North America), and updated features, enhancing its competitiveness.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily South Korea (e.g., Hwaseong Plant), and some production may occur in other global Kia assembly plants

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Recognition:

Often received good ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), contributing to potential Top Safety Pick awards.

NHTSA Recognition:

Consistently performed well in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests, typically earning a 4-star or 5-star overall safety rating.

Klang Quality:

For its price point, the 2012 Forte generally offered good interior fit and finish, with the manual detailing how to address any rattles or trim issues.