🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Forte / Forte Koup

Year:

2012

Engine Code:

G 2.4 DOHC

Forte Koup Generation:

First Generation (TD)

Vehicle Platform:

TD

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact car (Forte sedan) and compact coupe (Forte Koup).

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra.

Model Focus:

Sportier styling and a more driver-oriented experience, particularly in the Koup variant, compared to the standard Forte sedan.

📋 Manual Details

Main Coverage:

All Models / Engines / Trim / Transmissions Types for the 2012 Kia Forte and Forte Koup (TD) with the 2.4 DOHC engine.

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'complete' and 'comprehensive').

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management, manual transmission, automatic transmission.

Chassis:

Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system, wheel alignment, drive shafts, axles.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, audio system, wiring diagrams, body electrical controls, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics.

Loads More:

Body and interior trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), exterior body panels, interior components.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication, inspections.

Repair:

Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, cooling system problems, brake system malfunctions, and other vehicle performance concerns.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes diagnostic procedures and specifications required for professional-level repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

HTML (compatible with web browsers, often presented within a PDF container for ease of distribution).

Printable:

Yes, all pages are printable.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

Operating Systems:

Windows, Mac, and Linux OS.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing).

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2359 cc).

Horsepower:

Approximately 173-175 hp @ 6000-6200 rpm (Actual may vary slightly based on specific market tuning).

Torque:

Approximately 168-169 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm (Actual may vary slightly).

Injection Type:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Hyundai/Kia Pink Long Life Coolant or equivalent).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Available with both 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions.

Transmission Type Automatic:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (A6MF1 or similar).

Automatic Features:

Sportmatic® shift control (allows manual shifting).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific ATF (e.g., SPIII, SP-IV or equivalent; check VIN for precise specification).

📐 Dimensions

Koup Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.7 inches (2659 mm).

Forte Sedan Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm).

Curb Weight:

Varies by trim and transmission, typically ranging from 3000 to 3200 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 2012 Forte:

Good in front-offset, side-impact, and rear-impact tests (may vary by specific test year and body style; Koup may differ).

Braking System:

Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (standard on 2.4L). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), Brake Assist.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (standard on most trims).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Features:

AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability, USB/Auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth connectivity (on higher trims).

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Bluetooth:

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

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require shorter intervals.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving environment.

Engine Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (refer to manual for exact specification).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-20 (API SN or higher recommended).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 - 4.7 quarts (4.3 - 4.5 liters) with filter change (verify with manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to reservoir cap).

Engine Carbon Buildup:

Some owners report potential for carbon buildup on intake valves of GDI engines (though this is MPI, it's a general Kia concern for the era).

Transmission Harsh Shifting:

Occasional reports of harsh shifting in automatic transmissions, often resolvable with software updates or fluid changes.

Suspension Noises:

Potential for front suspension clunks or rattles, often related to worn bushings or struts.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Kia Motors Corporation.

Forte Introduction Year:

First generation launched for the 2009 model year globally, with the Koup variant introduced for 2010.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in South Korea (Hwaseong Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Insurance Institute For Highway Safety:

Some Kia Forte models received 'Top Safety Pick' designations from the IIHS in prior years, indicating good performance in crash tests for its class.