Guide to Replacing Disc Brake Pads on Your 2012-2019 Kia Forte5

Understanding Your Forte5's Brakes

Your 2012-2019 Kia Forte5 uses a disc brake system on both the front and rear wheels. The brake pads are the part designed to wear out. It's important to replace them before they wear down completely. This prevents damage to more expensive parts like your brake rotors and calipers. The original pads on most Forte5 models are ceramic, which provides a good balance of quiet operation and stopping power.

A Note on Model Years

The vehicle name and year range can be a point of confusion. In the North American market, the "Forte5" hatchback was officially sold from model years 2014 to 2018. Models from 2012-2013 were typically called the "Forte Hatchback". There was no 2019 Forte5 model sold in the US. This guide focuses on the 2014-2018 Forte5 but much of the information is applicable to similar Forte models.

Symptoms of Worn Brake Pads

Your Kia will give you clear signs when it's time for new brake pads. Ignoring them can lead to more dangerous and expensive problems.

• Squealing or Screeching Noises: This is often the first sign. A small metal tab called a wear indicator touches the rotor, making a high-pitched noise when the pads are thin.
• Grinding Sounds: If you hear grinding, stop driving as soon as it's safe. This means the pads are completely worn away, and metal is grinding against metal. This can quickly destroy your brake rotors.
• Vibrations in the Pedal or Steering Wheel: Shaking when you brake can mean your brake rotors are warped, often as a result of driving with worn pads for too long.
• Longer Stopping Distances: If your car takes longer to stop than it used to, or the brake pedal feels soft and spongy, your pads may be worn out or there could be another issue with the brake system like a fluid leak.
• Brake Warning Light: An illuminated brake light on your dashboard is a clear signal to have your brake system inspected immediately.

Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs

While there are no widespread recalls specifically for the brake pads on the 2014-2018 Forte5, some related issues have been noted:

• Recall SC158 (2012-2014 Models): Some earlier Forte models were recalled for a deteriorating brake pedal stopper pad. This small plastic piece could break down, causing the brake lights to stay on or allowing the car to be shifted out of park without pressing the brake. While not a brake pad issue, it's a critical safety recall to be aware of for these model years.
• Corroding Brake Lines: Some owners have reported issues with brake lines corroding prematurely, which can lead to a loss of brake fluid and a soft pedal or complete brake failure.
• Seized Caliper Pins: In some cases, especially in areas with road salt, the rear caliper guide pins can corrode and freeze. This prevents the pads from making proper contact with the rotor, leading to a loss of rear braking and uneven pad wear. Regular cleaning and lubrication of these pins during a brake job is critical.

Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads

You don't need to buy parts from the Kia dealer to get good quality. Many aftermarket brands offer excellent, and sometimes superior, performance. They generally fall into a few categories:

Tier 1: OEM-Quality & Premium Brands

These brands are known for meeting or exceeding the quality of the original factory pads. They provide quiet, reliable stopping power for daily driving. Many users in forums recommend these for a balance of performance and value.

• Akebono: Often considered a top-tier choice for quiet, low-dust ceramic pads.
• Bosch: A highly respected brand offering pads like the QuietCast line, which are engineered for quiet performance and durability.
• Brembo: While famous for high-performance brakes, their standard replacement pads are also a high-quality option.
• Wagner: Their OEX and TQ lines are well-regarded for quality construction and quiet operation.
• Raybestos: A long-standing brand with a reputation for dependable, OE-matching brake parts.

Tier 2: Performance & Upgrade Brands

If you want improved stopping power, especially for spirited driving, these brands offer pads with more aggressive friction materials. The trade-off can sometimes be more dust and potential for noise.

• EBC Brakes: Offers different compounds (Greenstuff, Redstuff) for various levels of performance.
• Powerstop: Very popular for their brake kits that often include drilled and slotted rotors. Their Z23 Evolution Sport pads are a common upgrade.
• Hawk Performance: Known for high-performance pads that offer excellent stopping power, though they can sometimes be noisy.

Tier 3: Daily Driver & Budget-Friendly Brands

These brands offer a reliable and affordable solution for normal daily driving. They are a great value and a significant step up from the cheapest options available.

• Centric / C-Tek: A popular choice on sites like RockAuto, offering solid quality for the price.
• Dynamic Friction: A brand that provides good quality and value for everyday use.
• ACDelco: While associated with GM, they offer quality aftermarket parts for many makes, including Kia.

Frequently Asked Questions