What is the battery model for the Kia Forte?
4 Answers
The battery model for the Kia Forte is gs55d23l. The number 55 represents the battery capacity code, with higher numbers indicating greater electrical storage capacity. The letter d denotes the battery's dimensions, specifying a width of 173mm and a height of 202mm. The number 23 indicates the battery's approximate length of 230mm, and the letter l signifies that the positive terminal is on the left end. The combination of battery width and height is represented by one of the eight letters: a, b, c, d, e, f, g, or h. The closer the character is to h, the larger the battery's width and height values. The battery, also known as an accumulator, operates by converting chemical energy into electrical energy.
My 2008 Kia Forte originally used a 55D23L battery with 55Ah capacity. Later when replacing it, I noticed most 2014 model owners use 60Ah batteries. When changing batteries, don't just look at the model numbers - you need to open the hood and actually measure the dimensions. The length, width and height should ideally be kept within 23×13×20 cm, otherwise it might not fit in the battery tray. For cold cranking amps (CCA), I recommend choosing 500A or above, especially for northern winters - this parameter is more important than capacity. Last time I bought a cheap off-brand battery that bulged within two years. Now I've switched to a Varta which is more expensive but durable. By the way, for newer models with start-stop systems, it's better to use AGM batteries as regular batteries can be damaged by the system.
The battery model for Forte depends on the year. Older models generally use 55D23L or 6-QW-55, while newer ones might have 55B24L. When repairing cars, I noticed that even for the same 1.6L engine, the battery sizes differed between batches around 12 years ago. The most reliable method is to take a photo of the old battery label and show it to the parts store, as it displays the full model number and CCA value. For replacement, I recommend the 55D23L and 60Ah compatible models, priced around 350, which can last three to four years. Make sure to measure the battery base space accurately—last year, while helping a neighbor replace theirs, we found the online-purchased battery had the correct model but the terminal orientation was reversed. Also, if you frequently take short trips, choosing a battery with a charge indicator window makes it easier to check its status.
Checked the Kia Forte manual which recommends using a 55D23L 12V battery with 55Ah capacity. However, upon inspecting three vehicles from different years, I found: the 2009 model uses L2-400, the 2012 model uses 55B24LS. This indicates manufacturers adjust specifications by production batch. If the original model is unavailable, focus on three key parameters: 12V voltage, 50-60Ah capacity, and physical dimensions matching the battery tray. Last week, I installed a Fengfan 6-QW-60 (perfect fit) for a friend's 2016 model. Always remember to clean oxide deposits from terminal posts - poor contact can occur even with new batteries. Owners with modified electrical systems should consider higher capacity batteries to prevent drainage issues.
