Segment:
Compact Car / Sport Compact
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish and functional compact vehicle with sporty variants (Forte5 and Koup).
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze.
Design:
Sleek, modern styling with distinct variations for sedan, hatchback (Forte5), and coupe (Koup) body styles. 'Tiger-nose' grille signature.
Value Proposition:
Offers a strong balance of features, styling, and affordability within its class.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Climate Control, HVAC, Body Electrical, Lighting, Audio Systems, Security Systems, SRS Airbags, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams, Body & Frame, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Road Tests, Specifications, Torque Specifications, Maintenance Schedules, Troubleshooting Guides.
Page Count:
Estimated 1000-1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Complete coverage of the 2.0L Theta II G4KD engine, including diagnostics, repair procedures, and component specifications. Covers engine mechanical, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions, cooling, and lubrication systems.
Transmission:
Detailed repair and maintenance procedures for both the 6-speed manual transmission (M6GF2) and the 6-speed automatic transmission (A6GF1), including clutch, gearbox, torque converter, and electronic control systems.
Chassis And Suspension:
Comprehensive information on the front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension systems, steering system (hydraulic power steering), brake system (front vented discs, rear solid discs, ABS, EBD), wheel and tire specifications, and alignment procedures.
Electrical And Electronics:
In-depth coverage of all electrical systems, including the starting and charging systems, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), audio system, power windows/locks, body control module (BCM), SRS airbag system, and detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, and brake pad replacement.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues using scan tools and multimeter testing. Includes symptom-based troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, and adjustment for major vehicle systems, including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and body components.
Wiring Diagrams:
High-quality, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including power distribution, grounding points, and component interconnectivity, crucial for electrical troubleshooting.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid specifications to advanced diagnostic procedures, component rebuilds, and electrical system tracing. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Engine Code:
G4KD (Theta II)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.1:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 16 Valves, Dual CVVT
Horsepower:
156 hp @ 6200 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
144 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
13.5 gallons (51.1 L)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Not explicitly rated for 2011 in all categories, but generally received good ratings in frontal and side impacts.
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA)
Traction Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-mounted airbags, side curtain airbags (all rows).
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input and USB port. Optional premium audio systems available on higher trims.
Display:
Optional navigation system and color touch-screen display available on certain trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Rear Camera:
Optional on higher trims, integrated with navigation display.
Bluetooth:
Optional hands-free Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Iridium type plugs).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (API SN or higher recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze (Korean Standard Long Life Coolant)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Engine Noise:
Some reports of lifter tick or valve train noise, often related to oil viscosity or level. Manual covers diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Hesitation:
Occasional reports of automatic transmission hesitation or rough shifts. Manual provides troubleshooting for TCM and solenoid issues.
Suspension Noise:
Possible wear in front suspension components (strut mounts, ball joints) leading to knocking noises. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Electrical Glitches:
Minor electrical issues like interior light malfunctions or sensor errors can occur. Comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are essential.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea
Generation:
First Generation (2008-2011 for global Cerato/Forte, North American launch 2009)
Body Styles:
Introduced as a sedan, followed by the 5-door hatchback (Forte5) and 2-door coupe (Koup) for the 2010 model year.
Facelift:
Minor updates for 2011, including revised styling and features. A significant redesign occurred for the second generation (2014).
Production Years:
2008-2013 (Global), 2009-2013 (North America)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (Hwaseong Plant)