🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Forte / Forte Koup

Model Code:

TD (referring to the Forte Koup designation)

Year:

2012

Engine Designation:

G 2.0 DOHC

Product Type:

Service and Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Car / Compact Coupe

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious consumers seeking a stylish and practical vehicle, including younger buyers and those looking for a sporty coupe option

Key Competitors 2012:

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

Strengths Vs Competitors:

Often offered a compelling blend of style (especially the Koup), features for the price, and a decent warranty. The 2.0L engine provided adequate performance for its class.

Vehicle Styling:

Sporty and aggressive styling, particularly in the Forte Koup variant, distinguishing it from more conservative competitors.

Value Proposition:

Competitive pricing and a strong feature set for the segment.

Powertrain Options:

Availability of a fuel-efficient 2.0L engine.

📋 Manual Details

Comprehensive Coverage:

Yes

Repair Focus:

Full Repair and Maintenance

Maintenance Focus:

Scheduled Maintenance and Diagnostics

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, typically 1500-2500+ pages for comprehensive factory-level manuals

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, component overhaul (pistons, rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, cylinder head, block)

Engine Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (injectors, pump, pressure regulator), fuel lines, fuel tank, evaporative emission control (EVAP)

Engine Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor

Engine Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, cooling fans, coolant specifications

Engine Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, oil type and capacity

Engine Electrical And Emissions:

ECU diagnostics, sensor inputs/outputs, emissions control systems (catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR - if applicable)

Transmission Automatic:

Internal components, torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, planetary gears, transmission control module (TCM), fluid specifications and capacity

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox assembly, clutch operation, synchronizers, shift linkage, fluid specifications and capacity

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle (if applicable), differential, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings

Suspension System:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (shocks, springs, trailing arms, multi-link), alignment specifications

Steering System:

Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, hoses), steering column, wheel alignment

Braking System:

Front and rear brakes (discs, calipers, pads, rotors), master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system (modulator, sensors), brake fluid type and bleeding procedures

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, EVAP system

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, O2 sensors

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, battery, starter motor, wiring diagrams

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb types and replacement

Electrical System Accessories:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, sunroof, wipers, horn, audio system, HVAC controls

Body Interior:

Interior trim removal/installation, seating, dashboard, console, airbags system (safety precautions)

Body Exterior:

Body panels (fenders, doors, hood, trunk), bumpers, glass replacement, seals, trim

HVAC System:

Air conditioning (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant), heating system, climate control module, cabin air filter replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics

Maintenance Procedures:

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

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement

Component Removal And Installation:

Detailed step-by-step guides for all major and minor components

Torque Specifications:

All critical bolt and fastener torque values

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical system schematics for all circuits

Exploded Views:

Detailed diagrams showing part relationships for assembly and disassembly

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs

Depth Level:

Factory-level comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced OBD-II diagnostics, sensor data analysis, ECU reprogramming procedures (if applicable)

Rebuild Information:

Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text (OCR processed)

Printability:

Printable pages

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

G 2.0 DOHC (Likely a variant of Kia's Theta II family, specifically the G4KD)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 16 valves

Displacement:

1998 cc (2.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 86.0 mm (Typical for this engine family)

Compression Ratio:

Approx. 10.1:1 (Typical)

Horsepower:

Approx. 156-159 hp @ 6200 RPM (Varies slightly by market and tune)

Torque:

Approx. 144-147 lb-ft @ 4300 RPM (Varies slightly by market and tune)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 AKI (Regular Unleaded)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (M/T)

Optional Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (A/T) with Sportmatic Shifter

Transmission Features:

Smooth shifting, fuel-efficient gearing, available manual mode for driver engagement (Sportmatic)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W/90 (Refer to manual for exact specification, e.g., MOCoL GL-4 75W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

SP-III (or equivalent compatible fluid, e.g., DiaQueen ATF SP-III)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Length Sedan:

Approx. 179.7 inches (4565 mm)

Length Koup:

Approx. 179.1 inches (4550 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.1 inches (1781 mm)

Height Sedan:

Approx. 56.7 inches (1440 mm)

Height Koup:

Approx. 54.3 inches (1380 mm)

Front Track:

Approx. 60.8 inches (1544 mm)

Rear Track:

Approx. 61.0 inches (1550 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.1 inches (130 mm)

Front Headroom:

Approx. 39.7 inches (1008 mm)

Rear Headroom Sedan:

Approx. 37.1 inches (942 mm)

Rear Headroom Koup:

Approx. 35.5 inches (902 mm)

Front Legroom:

Approx. 43.1 inches (1095 mm)

Rear Legroom Sedan:

Approx. 33.9 inches (861 mm)

Rear Legroom Koup:

Approx. 30.6 inches (777 mm)

Trunk Volume Sedan:

Approx. 15.1 cu ft (427 Liters)

Trunk Volume Koup:

Approx. 13.3 cu ft (377 Liters)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 2900-3000 lbs (1315-1361 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 3000-3100 lbs (1361-1406 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

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

Wheel Size Standard:

16-inch Alloy Wheels

Wheel Size Optional:

17-inch or 18-inch Alloy Wheels (depending on trim)

Tire Size Standard:

205/55R16

Tire Size Optional:

215/45R17 or 225/40R18

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating 2012 Sedan:

4 out of 5 Stars (General Motors/KWP platform basis, but Kia adapted it. Official Kia ratings should be consulted).

IIHS Top Safety Pick 2012:

Yes (for some configurations/body styles, check specific IIHS reports)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebs:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Esc:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags Front:

Dual front advanced airbags

Airbags Side:

Front seat-mounted side airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Full-length side curtain airbags

Active Head Restraints:

Active front head restraints

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available touchscreen infotainment system with navigation (optional), USB/Auxiliary input, Bluetooth connectivity.

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker audio system; optional premium audio system available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Backup Camera:

Available as an option on some trims.

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry with alarm system.

Push Button Start:

Available on higher trim levels.

Bluetooth:

Available for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Port:

Standard USB port for charging and media playback.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe conditions may require 3,750 miles (6,000 km).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 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 (standard on this model).

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Coolant Replacement:

Initial at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or 3 years thereafter.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Replacement recommended around 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or per manual's severe service schedule.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Replacement recommended around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per severe service schedule.

Engine Oil Type:

API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 compliant, SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. (Always verify with owner's manual for specific viscosity and specs).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically Asian Red or Pink long-life (e.g., Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to owner's manual. Typically ATF SP-III or a compatible power steering fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (DOT 4 preferred for better performance and longevity).

Engine Noise Potential:

Some reports of piston slap or minor knocking on cold starts, often attributed to piston-to-cylinder wall clearance. Typically not a major mechanical failure if within acceptable noise limits.

Transmission Hesitation Automatic:

Occasional reports of delayed shifts or harsh engagement, potentially related to valve body issues or TCM software. Regular fluid changes are critical.

Suspension Component Wear:

Potential for premature wear of suspension components like sway bar links or bushings due to road conditions.

HVAC Blower Motor:

Reports of HVAC blower motor failures or intermittent operation.

Headlight Oxidation:

Common issue across many vehicles of this era, where headlight lenses can become cloudy or yellowed.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Heritage Context:

Kia Motors, established in 1944, has grown from a manufacturer of bicycles and motorcycles to a global automotive powerhouse, known for offering vehicles with strong value, extensive warranties, and increasingly stylish designs.

Forte Generation I:

The Kia Forte (known as Cerato in many markets) was first introduced globally in 2008. The 2010 model year marked its debut in North America. The 2012 model year represents a mid-cycle refresh or significant update for the first generation, which ran from 2010-2013 in North America. The Forte Koup (2-door coupe) variant was introduced for the 2010 model year.

Production Location:

South Korea (Hwaseong Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Kbb Best Resale Value:

Kia Forte models have historically received positive mentions from Kelley Blue Book for their resale value in their segments.

Safety Awards:

As mentioned in safety ratings, the Forte achieved good scores from IIHS and NHTSA for its year and segment, indicating good safety performance.

Emissions Certification:

Meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for its model year.