Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda3
Vehicle Strengths:
Value for money, Stylish design (for its class), Decent fuel economy, Practicality
Target Audience:
Professional Mechanics and DIY Enthusiasts
Powertrain:
Engine (2.0L G4KD Theta II), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic/Manual), Drivetrain Components (CV Axles, Differential)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System, Braking System (Front/Rear Brakes, ABS)
Electrical:
Starting and Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting System, Power Accessories, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Body:
Body Exterior, Interior Trim, Climate Control System, Safety Restraint System (SRS)
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC System, Power Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Live Data Interpretation
Repair:
Component Removal, Installation, Disassembly, Assembly, Adjustment, Overhaul
Technical Data:
Specifications, Tolerances, Tightening Torques, Wiring Diagrams, Exploded Views, Pictorial Diagrams
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all systems, component testing procedures, diagnostic flowcharts.
Body Repair:
Procedures for panel replacement, dent repair, alignment checks, and interior component removal/installation.
Depth:
Extremely Detailed, Including Rebuild Procedures and Special Tool References
Special Tools:
References specific Kia special service tools with illustrations of their use.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approx. 156-162 hp @ 6200 rpm (varies by market)
Torque:
Approx. 145-148 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm (varies by market)
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) depending on exact variant
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 10.5:1
Engine Code Confirmation:
G4KD (Theta II) is the common engine for the 2.0L model in this generation.
Length:
Approx. 4530 mm (Sedan), 4245 mm (Hatchback)
Height:
Approx. 1435 mm (Sedan), 1450 mm (Hatchback)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1380 kg (depending on transmission and body style)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
N/A (Specific GVWR not provided in product info)
IIHS Rating 2012:
Likely 'Good' in most categories for its class, but specific ratings vary by test and year.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA)
Passive Safety:
Front Airbags, Side Airbags, Curtain Airbags (Trim Dependent), Seatbelt Pretensioners, Child Seat Anchors (ISOFIX)
Infotainment System:
Basic audio system with CD player, MP3 playback, USB/Auxiliary input. Higher trims may feature Bluetooth and steering wheel audio controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited compared to modern vehicles; primarily ABS and EBD. Cruise control often available.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary input jack, USB port (often standard on mid-to-high trims).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific interval (often around 60,000-100,000 miles for iridium plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for exact specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.4 liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically blue or green.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
SP-III or equivalent
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type (likely ATF Dexron III/Mercon compatible or specific Kia fluid).
Common Complaints:
Occasional reports of minor electrical gremlins, potential for interior rattles, brake wear issues if not maintained properly.
Engine Performance:
Theta II engines generally reliable; however, sludge build-up can be an issue if oil changes are neglected.
Brand Origin:
South Korea
Generation:
Second Generation (TD) Kia Cerato/Forte
Production Period:
2008-2013 (Second Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea, Malaysia, China, Russia