This procedure covers the removal and replacement of air lines (intake air ducts and hoses) connecting the air filter housing to the throttle body on the 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Air intake duct/hose assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps × 2 — Replace if damaged or weakened

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
4. Open hood and secure with prop rod

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental electrical issues. Use a 10mm wrench to loosen the negative terminal clamp and move the cable aside, ensuring it does not contact the battery post.
2. 2

   Remove engine cover if equipped
   If your Forte has a plastic engine cover, grasp it firmly and pull upward to release the mounting grommets. Set the cover aside in a clean area.
3. 3

   Disconnect mass air flow sensor connector
   Locate the MAF sensor on the air intake duct near the air filter housing. Press the release tab on the electrical connector and carefully pull straight out to disconnect. Do not pull on the wires.
4. 4

   Loosen air filter housing clamp
   Locate the hose clamp securing the air intake duct to the air filter housing outlet. Use a flathead screwdriver or appropriate socket to loosen the clamp screw until the duct can be rotated freely. Do not remove the clamp completely at this time.
5. 5

   Loosen throttle body clamp
   Locate the hose clamp at the throttle body connection point on the engine. Loosen this clamp using a flathead screwdriver or socket until the duct can be separated. The throttle body is located on the driver's side of the engine.
6. 6

   Disconnect breather hose connections
   Identify any smaller breather hoses or PCV hoses connected to the air intake duct. These typically push into rubber grommets. Carefully twist and pull each connection to release them from the main air duct.
7. 7

   Remove mounting bracket bolts
   If the air duct has any support brackets or mounting points to the engine or chassis, remove the retaining bolts using an 8mm or 10mm socket. Keep these bolts organized for reinstallation.
8. 8

   Remove air intake duct assembly
   With all connections loosened, carefully maneuver the air duct assembly out of the engine bay. The duct may need to be twisted or angled to clear surrounding components. Inspect the removed duct for cracks, tears, or oil contamination.
9. 9

   Clean mating surfaces
   Use shop towels to clean the throttle body inlet and air filter housing outlet. Remove any dirt, debris, or old gasket material. Inspect the throttle body opening for excessive carbon buildup.
10. 10

    Install new air intake duct
    Position the new air intake duct assembly, ensuring proper alignment with both the air filter housing and throttle body. Connect the duct to the air filter housing first, then route to the throttle body. Ensure all bends and curves match the original routing.
11. 11

    Secure hose clamps
    Tighten the hose clamp at the air filter housing connection until snug, ensuring the duct is fully seated. Then tighten the throttle body clamp. Do not overtighten as this can damage the duct or throttle body inlet.
12. 12

    Reconnect breather hoses and brackets
    Reconnect all breather hoses and PCV connections to the air intake duct, pushing firmly until they seat completely in their grommets. Reinstall any mounting bracket bolts and tighten securely.
13. 13

    Reconnect MAF sensor
    Plug the mass air flow sensor electrical connector back into the sensor until it clicks into place. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged.
14. 14

    Reconnect battery and reinstall engine cover
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the clamp nut securely. If removed, reinstall the engine cover by aligning the mounting grommets and pressing down firmly until it clicks into place.

Reassembly

1. Verify all hose clamps are properly tightened and the air duct is securely seated at both ends
2. Ensure no tools or parts are left in the engine bay
3. Double-check that all electrical connections are fully engaged

Verification

• Start the engine and listen for any air leaks or whistling sounds from the intake system
• Check that the engine idles smoothly without rough running or hesitation
• Verify the check engine light does not illuminate after starting
• Visually inspect all connections while the engine is running to confirm no movement or separation of the air duct
• Test drive the vehicle to ensure normal acceleration and throttle response

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