A Guide to Spark Plug Replacement for the 2015-2019 Kia Forte
Everything you need to know about choosing and replacing the spark plugs in your Forte's 1.8L or 2.0L engine.
- Use high-quality Iridium spark plugs from brands like NGK or Denso for best performance and longevity.
- This is a very easy DIY job that can be done in under 30 minutes with basic tools.
- Some 2018 Forte models were subject to a service action (SA342) for faulty spark plugs from the factory.
- New plugs are pre-gapped; do not attempt to adjust the gap on fine-wire Iridium plugs.
Symptoms of Failing Spark Plugs in a Kia Forte
Worn-out spark plugs can cause noticeable problems with your car's performance. Because the plugs are so important for combustion, you'll usually feel the effects while driving. If you experience any of these symptoms, it might be time to inspect your spark plugs.
🎬 Watch this video to see common symptoms of bad plugs.- Rough Idle: Your car may shake or vibrate when stopped, and the engine sound might be uneven.
- Engine Misfires: You might feel a jerking or stumbling from the engine, especially during acceleration. The check engine light may also flash or stay on, with codes like P0300-P0304. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix a Kia Forte misfire.
- Poor Acceleration: The car may feel sluggish or slow to respond when you press the gas pedal.
- Reduced Fuel Economy: You may notice you're visiting the gas station more often because a weak spark wastes fuel.
- Difficulty Starting: A car that cranks for a long time before starting could have plugs that are too worn to create a strong initial spark.
Vehicle-Specific Known Issues
Kia issued a service action (SA342) for some 2018 Kia Forte models produced between November 21, 2017, and April 12, 2018. These vehicles may have had spark plugs with porcelain that cracked during manufacturing. This can cause engine misfires and trigger the check engine light (DTCs P0300-P0304). The fix is to replace all four spark plugs. While this is not a safety recall, it is a known factory issue for this specific model year range.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plugs
When shopping for spark plugs for your 2015-2019 Forte, you'll find several brands and types. For this vehicle, the original plugs are long-lasting Iridium types. Sticking with Iridium is the best choice for performance and longevity. Here’s a breakdown of available brands.
Tier 1: OEM Quality & Recommended
These brands are known to be Original Equipment (OE) suppliers for Kia and other major automakers. They offer the best fit and performance.
- NGK: NGK is the original equipment manufacturer for many Kia vehicles, and their Laser Iridium plugs are often identical to the factory part. They are widely considered the best choice for a direct, high-quality replacement.
- Denso: Denso is another top-tier Japanese parts manufacturer. Their Iridium plugs are an excellent alternative to NGK and are known for their quality and durability.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
These brands offer quality Iridium plugs that are a good alternative to OEM, often at a slightly lower price point.
- Bosch: A well-respected German brand, Bosch makes high-quality Iridium spark plugs that are a reliable choice for the Forte.
- Autolite: Autolite's Iridium Ultra plugs are a popular aftermarket option, engineered to meet or exceed OE specifications.
- Champion: Champion offers Iridium plugs designed for long life and consistent performance, making them a solid mid-range option.
A Note on OEM vs. Aftermarket
For a critical component like spark plugs, the quality difference between a top-tier aftermarket brand like NGK or Denso and the official Kia-branded part is often non-existent. In many cases, the Kia part is simply a rebranded NGK plug. You can confidently use top-tier aftermarket plugs and get the same, if not better, performance as the dealer part, often for less money. However, be cautious of counterfeit plugs from non-reputable online sellers.
Cost of Replacing Spark Plugs on a 2015-2019 Kia Forte
The cost can vary depending on whether you do the job yourself or take it to a shop. The replacement is considered very easy for a DIY mechanic.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Spark Plugs (Set of 4) | $28 - $70 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $180 |
| DIY Total | $28 - $70 |
| Shop Total | $128 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace the spark plugs on my Kia Forte?
For the Iridium spark plugs used in the 2015-2019 Forte, the recommended replacement interval is typically between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Check your owner's manual for the specific interval for your vehicle's engine.
Is replacing the spark plugs a good DIY job?
Yes, this is one of the easiest maintenance tasks you can perform on this vehicle. The spark plugs are located directly on top of the engine and are easily accessible after removing a plastic cover. The job requires only basic tools and can be completed in under 30 minutes.
🎬 See this easy DIY spark plug and coil replacement walkthrough.What tools do I need to change the spark plugs?
You will need a ratchet, a 6-inch extension, a 10mm socket (for the ignition coil bolts), and a 5/8" spark plug socket. A torque wrench is also highly recommended to ensure the new plugs are tightened correctly to 11-18 lb-ft.
Do I need to gap the new spark plugs?
Most Iridium spark plugs for the Kia Forte come pre-gapped and should not be adjusted, as you can easily damage the fine tip. Always verify the part number is correct for your vehicle. The specified gap for some models is between 1.0mm and 1.1mm (0.039" - 0.043"). It's always a good idea to gently check the gap with a feeler gauge to ensure it wasn't damaged in shipping.
Should I replace the ignition coils at the same time?
It is generally not necessary to replace the ignition coils unless you have a specific misfire code that points to a bad coil, or if the engine has very high mileage. Unlike spark plugs, ignition coils are not typically considered a routine maintenance item.
Helpful Videos
![14 - 18 Kia Forte [EASY] 1.8L 1.6L Spark Plugs & Coil Replacement | DIY](https://img.youtube.com/vi/P9Np-VO_ZEs/mqdefault.jpg)
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 1884611070 1884908080 1886709095
Socket Size: 5/8 inch Torque Spec: 11-18 lb-ft (15-24.5 N.m) Gap Spec: ~1.0mm-1.1mm (0.039"-0.043") Material: Iridium
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Kia Forte:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of Failing Spark Plugs in a Kia Forte
- Vehicle-Specific Known Issues
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Spark Plugs
- Tier 1: OEM Quality & Recommended
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
- A Note on OEM vs. Aftermarket
- Cost of Replacing Spark Plugs on a 2015-2019 Kia Forte
- Frequently Asked Questions
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