Target Audience:
Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics
Value Proposition:
Cost-effective alternative to professional mechanic services, empowering owners to maintain and repair their vehicle
Convenience:
Digital format offers greater convenience and cost savings over traditional paper manuals
Completeness:
Comprehensive coverage of all systems and procedures, ensuring no information is missing
Updates:
No expiry dates, providing lifelong access to service information
Engine Service:
Full Engine Service & Repair (including disassembly, reassembly, and diagnostics)
Transmission Service:
Full Transmission Service & Repair (covering both manual and automatic where applicable)
Brake System:
Comprehensive Brake System Service (including hydraulic, ABS, and parking brake)
Electrical System:
Extensive Electrical System Coverage (including wiring diagrams, component testing, and diagnostics)
Suspension Steering:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering System Service & Repair
Cooling Fuel:
Cooling System and Fuel System (including fuel injection and fuel pump diagnostics)
Emission Control:
Emission Control System and Components
HVAC:
Heater and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Service
Engine Control:
Engine Control System (ECU/ECM) Diagnostics and Calibration
Chassis Body:
Chassis and Body Repair Procedures
Restraint System:
Restraint System (Airbag, Seatbelts) Service and Safety Precautions
Interior Trim:
Interior Trim and Components Service
Drivetrain:
Differential and Drive Axle Service
Maintenance:
General Maintenance and Periodic Lubrication Procedures
Troubleshooting:
In-depth Troubleshooting Guides for Common and Complex Issues
Repair:
Step-by-step Repair Instructions for all Major Components
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for all vehicle systems, including electrical and engine management
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and Detailed Wiring Diagrams for all Electrical Systems
Depth:
Complete Factory Level Detail, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics alike
Illustrations:
Hundreds of Photos and Illustrations guiding through procedures
Compatibility:
Compatible with all Windows and Mac operating systems
Accessibility:
Accessible on PCs, laptops, smartphones, and tablets via web browser
Printability:
Fully Printable (print entire manual or selected pages)
Binding:
Digital (PDF) - No physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free online)
IIHS Ratings:
Refer to specific IIHS reports for 2012 Kia Cerato/Forte for detailed crashworthiness ratings (Good/Acceptable/Marginal/Poor)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Front and Side Airbags (coverage varies by trim and market)
Audio System:
Standard CD/MP3 player with AM/FM radio, auxiliary input, and USB port. Higher trims may feature Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and upgraded speaker systems.
Cruise Control:
Available Cruise Control
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity for phone calls
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually
Spark Plugs:
Replace approximately every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) (material dependent - Iridium recommended)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 API SM or higher (Check owner's manual for specific viscosity and API classification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0-4.5 quarts (3.8-4.3 liters) with filter change
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water (Kia Genuine Long Life Coolant or equivalent, Pink/Orange color)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
SP-III or SP-IV (Check owner's manual for exact specification)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Check owner's manual)
Engine Performance:
Occasional reports of carbon buildup on intake valves, especially in city driving; can lead to rough idle or reduced power.
Electrical:
Some owners report minor electrical gremlins, such as intermittent power window or infotainment system issues. Often resolved with software updates or connector checks.
Suspension Components:
Wear on certain suspension components like ball joints or sway bar links can occur over time, particularly with higher mileage vehicles.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation
Generation:
Second Generation (TD platform)
Market Introduction:
The second generation Cerato (TD) was introduced globally in 2008 and sold through 2013. The 2012 model year falls within this generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (Hwaseong Plant), Malaysia, China, Russia
