Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Competitive Set:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, good fuel economy, stylish design, decent feature set for its class.
Target Demographic:
Budget-conscious buyers, young professionals, small families.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (FWD), Axles, Driveshafts, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires
Body And Exterior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Exterior Trim, Mirrors, Lighting (Headlights, Taillights, Signals)
Interior:
Seating System, Interior Trim, Dashboard, Center Console, HVAC System, Audio System, Airbags, Seatbelts
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Wiper & Washer System, Horn, Instrument Cluster, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Chassis Control Module (CCM), Infotainment System Wiring
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Tune-ups, Belt & Hose Inspection/Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair/Rebuild, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, Body Panel Repair/Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Electrical Circuit Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Tolerances, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Engine Code:
G4FC (1.6L MPI) and G4FD (1.8L MPI) are common for the 2014 Forte/Cerato globally. Specific US market engines might vary.
Displacement Liter:
1.6L or 1.8L (specific to market and trim)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve, MPI (Multi-Point Injection)
Horsepower Ps:
Approx. 130-140 PS for 1.6L, 145-150 PS for 1.8L (varies by market)
Torque Nm:
Approx. 157-161 Nm for 1.6L, 175-178 Nm for 1.8L (varies by market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally rated well, refer to NHTSA for specific year/model tests (typically 4-5 stars).
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
May have achieved Top Safety Pick ratings in certain configurations (refer to IIHS for specifics).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-Impact, Curtain Airbags (number varies by trim)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Head Unit:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with USB/AUX inputs. Optional UVO infotainment system with touchscreen, navigation, and rearview camera.
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system. Optional premium audio system on higher trims.
Features Available:
Available features may include rearview camera, parking sensors (rear), cruise control.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free connectivity for phone calls and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval Km:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 km or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Km:
Every 24,000-30,000 km or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Km:
Every 15,000-20,000 km or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Typically 100,000 km for iridium-tipped plugs (refer to manual for exact type and interval).
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5. Viscosity: 0W-20 or 5W-20 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol Based, Long Life Coolant (Pink or Blue, specific type like HOAT or OAT - refer to manual).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Issues:
Occasional reports of oil consumption in certain engines, potential for knock sensor issues, minor engine mounts wear.
Transmission Issues:
Some users report occasional rough shifting in the automatic transmission, especially at lower mileage. Transmission fluid changes are critical.
Electrical Issues:
Infrequent reports of minor electrical gremlins, such as issues with interior lighting or power window motors. Battery health is important.
Suspension Issues:
Front sway bar links and bushings can show wear over time, leading to clunking noises.
Manufacturer:
Kia Corporation, South Korea
Generation:
Second Generation Kia Forte/Cerato (BD platform predecessor was TD).
Design Philosophy:
Continued Kia's trend towards more European-inspired styling and improved interior quality.
Production Period:
2013-2016 for this generation
Assembly Locations:
Primarily South Korea (Hwaseong Plant), with other global assembly plants depending on market.
