2012 Kia Forte5

2012 Kia Forte5

The 2012 Kia Forte5, a versatile hatchback, was offered with two engine options: a 1.8L inline-4 or a 2.4L inline-4. Both engines could be paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The 1.8L engine produces 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.4L engine produces 173 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally praised the Forte5 for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and spacious interior, but some common issues have been reported.

Engine 1.8L Inline-4

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure: The crankshaft position sensor may fail, leading to engine stalling or difficulty starting. Replacement of the sensor is necessary. $100 - $200+

Transmission 6-Speed Manual

• Shifter Bushing Wear: The shifter bushings may wear out over time, causing difficulty shifting gears. Replacement of the bushings is required. $200 - $300+
• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure: The clutch master cylinder may fail, resulting in a loss of clutch pressure. The master cylinder needs to be replaced. $500 - $700+

6-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leak: A leak may develop in the transmission fluid lines or pan gasket, leading to a loss of fluid and potential transmission damage. Repairing the leak is necessary. $300 - $500+

Suspension All

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure: The strut mount bearings may wear out, causing a clunking noise from the front suspension. Replacement of the strut mounts is required. $400 - $600+
• Sway Bar End Link Wear: The sway bar end links may wear out, leading to a rattling or clunking noise from the suspension. Replacing the end links is necessary. $200 - $300+

Electrical All

• Battery Drain: A parasitic battery drain may occur due to faulty components or accessories. Diagnosing and repairing the electrical system is necessary. $100 - $500+
• Headlight Switch Failure: The headlight switch may fail, resulting in the headlights not functioning properly. Replacement of the switch is required. $200 - $300+

Exterior All

• Rear Bumper Fascia Sagging: The rear bumper fascia may sag or detach from the vehicle due to loose clips or bolts. Reattaching or replacing the fascia is necessary. $100 - $200+
• Tail Light Lens Condensation: Condensation may accumulate inside the tail light lenses, causing them to fog up. Replacement of the lenses is required. $100 - $200+ per lens

Interior All

• Dashboard Rattle: The dashboard may rattle due to loose components or poor assembly. Tightening or replacing the affected components is necessary. $100 - $300+
• Heater Core Leak: The heater core may develop a leak, causing coolant to enter the cabin. The heater core needs to be replaced. $500 - $700+
• Window Regulator Failure: The window regulator may fail, resulting in difficulty operating the windows. Replacing the regulator is necessary. $200 - $300+ per window

Summary

Overall, the 2012 Kia Forte5 is a reliable and affordable vehicle with some common issues to watch out for. While some issues, such as the battery drain or headlight switch failure, can be relatively inexpensive to fix, more significant problems like a heater core leak or transmission fluid leak can be more costly to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of repairs when considering this vehicle.