🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Forte / Forte Koup

Model Code:

TD

Year:

2012

Engine Variant:

2.4L DOHC

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Sedan and Coupe, competing in a highly competitive segment.

Value Proposition:

Offers a blend of style, performance, and value for its class, often positioned as a more stylish and engaging alternative to some mainstream competitors.

Key Competitors 2012:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze.

Styling:

The Forte and Forte Koup are known for their sporty and distinctive exterior styling, a key differentiator in the segment.

Engine Option:

The 2.4L GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency for the model year.

Manual Importance:

This comprehensive manual is essential for owners and technicians performing in-depth maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Focus:

Complete factory service and repair

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), Printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, engine control system (ECM), fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system, emission controls

Transmission:

Manual transmission (M/T) and automatic transmission (A/T) - maintenance, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications, control systems

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive shafts, axles, differentials, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, steering rack, tie rods, power steering fluid type and specifications

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake fluid type (DOT 3 or DOT 4), brake pad and rotor specifications, hydraulic system components

Electrical:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors)

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant type (R-134a), AC compressor, evaporator, condenser, climate control module, blower motor

Body:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, body repair procedures

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pre-tensioners, diagnostic procedures for airbag faults

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, belt inspections and replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, testing procedures for various components

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for engine components, transmission overhaul, suspension and steering system repairs, brake system overhauls, electrical component replacement, HVAC system repairs, body panel replacement

Rebuilds:

Engine overhaul procedures, transmission rebuild procedures, component torque specifications for assembly

Adjustments:

Valve clearance adjustments (if applicable), parking brake adjustments, wheel alignment procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic trees.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Printability:

High-resolution, suitable for professional printing; printable in sections or entirety

Binding Suggestion:

Coil binding or three-ring binder recommended for ease of use and page turning during repairs

Paper Recommendation:

Durable, high-quality paper for workshop environments

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Theta II G4KC (2.4L)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Displacement:

2359 cc (2.4 Liters)

Horsepower Peak:

Approximately 173-175 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE Net)

Torque Peak:

Approximately 165-169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SAE Net)

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) depending on specific sub-model and market, though GDI is common for this engine.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating of 87 or higher recommended

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)

Coolant Type:

Pre-mixed Asian Vehicle Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) or equivalent

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 7.4 quarts (7.0 liters)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (M/T) on some trims/models.

Type:

6-speed Automatic Transmission (A/T) with Shiftronic.

Automatic Features:

Sportmatic (manual shifting mode), driver adaptive learning.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Sedan: ~179.5 in (4560 mm); Koup: ~171.3 in (4350 mm)

Width:

~70.7 in (1795 mm)

Height:

Sedan: ~57.5 in (1460 mm); Koup: ~55.1 in (1400 mm)

Wheelbase:

Sedan: ~104.3 in (2650 mm); Koup: ~104.3 in (2650 mm)

Trunk Volume Sedan:

Approximately 15.5 cu ft (439 liters)

Trunk Volume Koup:

Approximately 13.1 cu ft (371 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3000-3200 lbs (1360-1450 kg), varies by trim and transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 4200-4300 lbs (1900-1950 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Standard Tire Size:

205/55R16, 215/45R17, or 215/40R18 depending on trim

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

4-star overall rating (typical for this generation, verify specific year/model test results)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Some Forte models achieved 'Good' ratings in various IIHS tests, but not always a Top Safety Pick designation.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Esc:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear on sedans, front and sometimes rear on coupes).

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants, 3-point rear seatbelts.

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Base models typically feature an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Higher trims may offer SiriusXM satellite radio, USB connectivity, and Bluetooth.

Audio System:

Standard 4-6 speaker system. Premium Infinity audio system available on higher trims.

Parking Assist:

Rearview camera and parking assist sensors were optional on some higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Bluetooth:

Available for hands-free phone calls and audio streaming on select trims.

Usb Port:

Available for audio playback and device charging.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe conditions may require shorter intervals (e.g., 3,000 miles/5,000 km).

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 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for Iridium-tipped spark plugs (common for this engine).

Coolant Replacement:

First change at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months thereafter.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 24 months or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to owner's manual, likely a specific power steering fluid or Dexron III ATF.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 meeting FMVSS 116

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some Theta II engines, including the 2.4L, have been known to exhibit oil consumption issues, potentially related to piston ring sealing. Regular oil level checks are crucial.

Theta Ii Engine Problems:

Class-action lawsuits and recalls have addressed potential engine bearing failures or internal component issues in certain Theta II engines, though specific impacts on the 2.4L in the 2012 Forte vary. The manual will detail diagnostic procedures for such issues.

Transmission Shifting:

Occasional reports of harsh shifting or delayed engagement in the automatic transmission. Software updates or internal component issues may be a cause.

Suspension Wear:

Front suspension components (ball joints, bushings) can show wear over time, leading to noise or alignment issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Context:

Kia, a South Korean manufacturer, has a history of producing a wide range of vehicles. In the late 2000s and early 2010s, Kia significantly improved its product design, quality, and performance under the leadership of Peter Schreyer.

Forte Introduction:

The Kia Forte (also known as Cerato in some markets) was introduced globally in 2008 as a successor to the Spectra. The Forte Koup, a two-door coupe variant, was launched in 2009.

2012 Update:

The 2012 model year represents the later part of the first generation (TD). Updates for this generation included styling refinements and the introduction of the more powerful 2.4L engine option, providing a more robust performance choice.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea by Kia Motors. Assembly also occurred in other Kia plants globally depending on the market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Kbb Best Deals 2012:

The Kia Forte often appeared on Kelley Blue Book's 'Best Deals' lists for its respective segment, indicating strong value and affordability.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports typically provided mid-range to good reliability ratings for the Kia Forte in this generation, with specific scores varying by year and component.

Epa Fuel Economy:

EPA estimates for the 2.4L engine with automatic transmission were around 22 MPG city / 32 MPG highway (these figures can vary slightly based on specific test cycles and sub-model).