This procedure covers the replacement of the starter solenoid on a 2015 Kia Forte with 1.8L I4 engine, requiring removal of the starter assembly for solenoid replacement or service.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Starter solenoid assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification for 2015 Forte 1.8L
• Terminal protective boots (if deteriorated) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
4. Raise and safely support front of vehicle on jack stands
5. Remove engine splash shield if equipped for better access

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Using a 10mm wrench, loosen the negative battery terminal nut and remove the cable from the battery post. Isolate the cable away from the battery to prevent accidental reconnection during the repair.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Access starter motor from underneath
   Position yourself under the vehicle with adequate lighting. The starter is located on the transmission bellhousing, below the intake manifold on the passenger side of the engine. Identify the starter motor and its electrical connections before proceeding.
3. 3

   Disconnect starter electrical connections
   Locate the two electrical connections on the starter solenoid: the S-terminal (signal wire connector) and the B-terminal (main battery cable). First, disconnect the S-terminal by pressing the release tab and pulling the connector straight off. Then, using a 12mm socket, remove the nut securing the battery cable to the B-terminal and carefully remove the cable. Note the routing of wires for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Battery Cable Nut13 Nm (10 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove upper starter mounting bolt
   Using a 14mm socket with extension, locate and remove the upper starter mounting bolt. This bolt threads into the transmission bellhousing. You may need a 6-inch extension to reach this bolt from below. Keep this bolt in a safe location as it will be reused.
   ⚠The upper bolt may be difficult to access. Use proper extension length to avoid stripping the bolt head
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts32 Nm (24 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove lower starter mounting bolt
   Using a 14mm socket, remove the lower starter mounting bolt from the bellhousing. This bolt is typically more accessible than the upper bolt. Once removed, support the starter motor with one hand while removing any remaining hardware.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts32 Nm (24 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove starter assembly
   With both mounting bolts removed, carefully lower and remove the starter motor from the bellhousing. The starter may need to be rotated or angled slightly to clear surrounding components. Ensure no wires are still attached and that the starter is free to remove. Place the starter on a clean work surface.
   ⚠The starter weighs approximately 8-10 lbs. Use both hands and proper lifting technique to avoid dropping the unit
7. 7

   Remove old solenoid from starter
   With the starter on your workbench, remove the solenoid mounting screws or bolts (typically two or three screws) using appropriate screwdriver or socket. Carefully separate the solenoid from the starter motor housing. Note the position of the solenoid plunger engagement with the starter drive mechanism. Clean the mounting surfaces on the starter housing with a wire brush if needed.
8. 8

   Install new solenoid
   Position the new solenoid onto the starter motor housing, ensuring the plunger properly engages with the shift fork or drive mechanism. Align the mounting holes and install the solenoid mounting screws or bolts. Tighten securely but do not overtighten to avoid cracking the solenoid housing. Verify the solenoid plunger moves freely before proceeding.
9. 9

   Install starter assembly to bellhousing
   Position the starter motor back into the bellhousing opening, angling as necessary to fit. Align the mounting holes with the threaded holes in the bellhousing. Thread both upper and lower mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment before tightening.
   ⚠Ensure the starter is properly seated against the bellhousing before tightening bolts to prevent misalignment
10. 10

    Torque starter mounting bolts
    Using a torque wrench and 14mm socket, tighten both the upper and lower starter mounting bolts to the specified torque value of 45 Nm (33 lb-ft). Tighten in a cross pattern if possible, starting with the upper bolt, then the lower bolt, then rechecking both.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts32 Nm (24 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect starter electrical connections
    Reconnect the battery cable to the B-terminal on the solenoid and install the retaining nut. Torque the battery cable nut to 13 Nm (10 lb-ft) using a torque wrench. Then, reconnect the S-terminal signal wire connector, ensuring it clicks into place securely. Verify both connections are tight and properly seated.
    Torque spec

    Battery Cable Nut13 Nm (10 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall underbody components
    If the engine splash shield was removed, reinstall it using the original fasteners. Lower the vehicle from jack stands and remove wheel chocks.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery negative terminal
    Reconnect the negative battery cable to the negative battery post. Tighten the terminal bolt to the specified torque of 6 Nm (4 lb-ft). Ensure the connection is clean and secure.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connections are secure and properly routed away from hot or moving components
2. Ensure no tools or parts were left in the engine bay or underneath the vehicle
3. Double-check that both starter mounting bolts are torqued to specification

Verification

• Turn the ignition key to the START position and verify the engine cranks normally without unusual noises
• Listen for a solid engagement click from the solenoid when the key is turned
• Verify the starter disengages properly when the key is released and the engine starts
• Check for any clicking, grinding, or hesitation during cranking that would indicate improper installation
• Inspect underneath the vehicle for any fluid leaks or loose components after test starting
• Verify no warning lights remain illuminated on the instrument cluster after successful start

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