Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sedan
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus.
Usp 2012 Forte:
Value proposition, stylish design, good fuel economy, feature-rich for its class.
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, young drivers, small families.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers DIY enthusiasts and professionals with comprehensive technical data to maintain and repair the Kia Forte 2.0L (TD) 2012 model efficiently.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, timing systems, lubrication.
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul, clutch service, shift linkage, gear ratios, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Hydraulic system, valve body, torque converter, electronic control, fluid specifications.
Suspension:
Front/rear suspension components, alignment procedures, shock absorbers, springs.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, column components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake discs, pads, calipers, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories.
Body And Chassis:
Structural repair, body panels, doors, hinges, latches, interior trim.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based diagnostics, DTC interpretation, circuit testing.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for all major and minor components.
Calibration:
Throttle body, steering angle sensor, idle air control valve.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling vehicle systems.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive listing of all critical fastener torque values.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full rebuilds and advanced diagnostics).
Diagrams Illustrations:
Detailed technical drawings, exploded views, and schematics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on required scan tools and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
81.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Horsepower:
156 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque:
144 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) / GDI
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Emission Controls:
Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, EVAP System.
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (M/T)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (A/T) with Shiftronic
Automatic Transmission Features:
Lock-up torque converter, sport mode, manual override (Shiftronic).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-85 (Check manual for specific Kia p/n)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia SPII (or equivalent SP-IV) ATF (Check manual for specific Kia p/n)
Length:
174.4 inches (4,430 mm)
Width:
69.3 inches (1,760 mm)
Height:
57.9 inches (1,470 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2,650 mm)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 2,850 - 2,950 lbs (1,293 - 1,338 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 2,950 - 3,050 lbs (1,338 - 1,383 kg)
Trunk Volume:
14.7 cu ft (416 L)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (as of 2012 model year testing)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with optional front crash prevention)
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, front side-impact, side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point with pretensioners and load limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (synthetic oil).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 105,000 miles (Iridium type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (initially), then every 60,000 miles or 48 months.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or ILSAC GF-5, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual (often ATF SPII or equivalent)
Common Frequently Reported:
Occasional reports of rattling noises from exhaust heat shields, potential for premature brake wear on some units, minor electrical gremlins.
Engine Performance Notes:
2.0L engine generally reliable, though some owners report it can feel slightly underpowered compared to competitors.
Kia Founding:
Founded in 1944, Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles.
Forte Generation Debut:
First generation Forte debuted for the 2010 model year.
2012 Model Year Updates:
Minor styling tweaks, updated feature packaging, potential powertrain refinements.
Manufacturing Location:
Hwaseong, South Korea; Gwangmyeong, South Korea; also assembled in Mexico and Malaysia.
IIHS Awards 2012:
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick.
Jd Power Dependability:
Varies by year and specific assessment, but generally competitive for its segment.
Epa Fuel Economy City:
Approx. 25-27 MPG (depending on transmission)
Epa Fuel Economy Highway:
Approx. 34-37 MPG (depending on transmission)