This procedure addresses a component mismatch: the 2015 Kia Forte with 1.8L I4 engine does not have factory air suspension and therefore does not have air suspension height sensors. This vehicle uses conventional coil spring suspension.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Air suspension height sensor (NOT APPLICABLE - Vehicle does not have air suspension) — N/A

Preparation

1. Verify the vehicle actually has air suspension installed. Visually inspect all four corners for air springs, air lines, and compressor unit.
2. If investigating a diagnostic trouble code, use a factory-level scan tool to identify the actual sensor causing the fault.
3. Review any aftermarket installation documentation if non-OEM air suspension is present.
4. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake.
5. If working on conventional suspension height sensor replacement (aftermarket only), ensure vehicle is safely supported on jack stands.

Procedure

1. 1

   Verify Vehicle Configuration
   Confirm whether the vehicle has factory air suspension or conventional suspension. The 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L comes standard with conventional coil-over struts at all four corners. Look under the vehicle for air springs (rubber bladders) versus metal coil springs. Check for an air compressor unit, typically located in the trunk or under the vehicle.
2. 2

   Identify Actual Component Requiring Service
   If a diagnostic code is present, use a professional scan tool to identify the specific sensor. Common sensors that may be confused with height sensors include: wheel speed sensors (ABS), steering angle sensor, or yaw rate sensor. Review the diagnostic trouble code definition in the factory service information.
3. 3

   Check for Aftermarket Air Suspension Installation
   If air suspension components are found but not factory-installed, identify the aftermarket manufacturer. Common brands include Air Lift, Airbag Man, and Firestone. Height sensors on aftermarket systems are typically mounted to the rear axle or control arms with adjustable linkage rods.
4. 4

   Locate Aftermarket Height Sensor (If Applicable)
   For aftermarket air suspension systems, the height sensor is usually a rotary potentiometer mounted to the vehicle frame or body with a linkage rod connected to the suspension arm. Raise and support the vehicle safely. Locate the sensor, typically found on the rear axle near the differential or trailing arm.
5. 5

   Disconnect Electrical Connection
   Disconnect the vehicle battery negative terminal if working with electrical components. Locate and disconnect the electrical connector from the height sensor. Press the tab release and pull the connector straight off. Inspect connector pins for corrosion or damage.
6. 6

   Disconnect Linkage Rod
   Remove the linkage rod connection at the sensor arm. This is typically a ball-and-socket connection with a retaining clip or small bolt. Note the exact position and length adjustment of the linkage for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove Sensor Mounting Hardware
   Remove the bolts securing the height sensor to its mounting bracket. Aftermarket sensors typically use 2-3 mounting bolts. Remove the sensor from the vehicle.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Install New Sensor
   Position the new height sensor in the mounting location. Install mounting bolts finger-tight, then torque to specification. Ensure the sensor arm moves freely through its full range of motion without binding.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect Linkage Rod
   Attach the linkage rod to the sensor arm, ensuring it is set to the same length as noted during removal. The vehicle should be at normal ride height during this step. Secure the connection with the retaining clip or bolt.
10. 10

    Reconnect Electrical and Calibrate
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the height sensor. Reconnect the vehicle battery. If the aftermarket system has a control module, follow the manufacturer's calibration procedure. This typically involves cycling the ignition, allowing the system to self-level, or using a dedicated calibration tool.

Reassembly

1. This procedure assumes aftermarket air suspension installation. No OEM reassembly steps apply to the factory 2015 Kia Forte 1.8L configuration.
2. Follow aftermarket manufacturer torque specifications for sensor mounting, which may differ from OEM suspension components.
3. Ensure all electrical connections are fully seated and secured with locking tabs.

Verification

• For factory vehicles: Confirm the actual sensor requiring service and that no air suspension components are present. Resolve the original diagnostic concern using appropriate OEM procedures.
• For aftermarket systems: Start the vehicle and verify the air suspension system operates normally. Check for diagnostic trouble codes using the aftermarket control module or vehicle scan tool.
• Verify the vehicle rises and lowers to commanded heights without fault codes. Test drive and confirm normal ride quality and height adjustment functionality.
• Inspect all connections for security and ensure the linkage rod does not contact suspension components through full suspension travel.

More procedures for this vehicle