Segment:
Compact Sedan and Coupe
Target Audience:
DIY Mechanics, Independent Repair Shops, Enthusiasts
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cruze
Vehicle Appeal:
Stylish design, value for money, good fuel economy, sporty handling (especially Koup)
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level repair information, enabling cost savings on maintenance and repairs.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (FWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, Disc/Drum), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting System, Audio System, HVAC Control, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses & Relays
Body:
Body Exterior & Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Body Repair Procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Diagnostics:
Symptom-based Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures, Scan Tool Usage
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair, Body Panel Repair
Installation:
Component Replacement Procedures, Timing Belt/Chain Replacement, Sensor Installation, Module Programming (where applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2359 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 173-175 hp @ 6000 RPM (varies slightly by market/tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 169-171 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM (varies slightly by market/tuning)
Induction:
Naturally Aspirated, Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based (e.g., Kia Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SN or higher classification)
Spark Plugs:
Iridium Type (e.g., NGK ILFR5A-11 or equivalent)
Sedan Length:
Approx. 178.7 inches (4539 mm)
Koup Length:
Approx. 179.4 inches (4557 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.7 inches (1796 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.7 inches (1440 mm) for Koup, 57.0 inches (1448 mm) for Sedan
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3050-3200 lbs (1383-1451 kg), varies by configuration
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 14.7 cu ft (416 L) for Sedan, 13.4 cu ft (379 L) for Koup
NHTSA Overall:
4-Star (2011 Forte Sedan) - Varies by specific model and configuration.
IIHS Front Crash:
Good (2011 Forte Sedan)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front, Front Side, Curtain Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability, auxiliary input jack, and USB port. Optional premium audio systems available.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth hands-free phone system and audio streaming (on higher trims or optional).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Backup Camera:
Optional on some trims, typically part of a package.
HVAC:
Manual air conditioning standard, automatic climate control available on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (160,000 km) for Iridium type.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.6 US quarts (4.4 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 US quarts (6.6 Liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Performance:
Occasional reports of carbon buildup in the intake manifold, potential for timing chain stretch on higher mileage units (though less common than some competitors).
Suspension Components:
Some owners report premature wear of front sway bar links and bushings.
Electrical Systems:
Infrequent reports of minor electrical gremlins, such as issues with window regulators or infotainment system glitches.
