NHTSA Data Explorer
Kia Forte
Data refreshed September 6, 2026
Select a model year to filter results to that year of the Kia Forte.
Complaints
2,529
Active records
Recalls
18
Active records
TSBs
460
Active records
Filing history
Monthly totals over the last 20 years. Click a legend item to show or hide that series.
Reported severity
Based on consumer complaints filed since 2000. Recalls and TSBs do not include severity data.
Deaths
12
Injuries
190
Crashes
233
Fires
136
Top reported issues — Kia Forte
Click a category to expand its values.
Operating state
Noise
Condition issue
Reporting mechanism
Engine behavior
Performance issue
Safety restraint issue
Fluid issue
Thermal issue
Safety restraint behavior
Lighting behavior
Vibration/harshness
Transmission/drivetrain behavior
Driver assistance issue
Braking behavior
Starting behavior
Steering behavior
Electrical issue
Smell
Access/entry issue
Powering on/off behavior
Recent change
Ride/handling behavior
Infotainment behavior
HVAC behavior
Wiper/washer behavior
Communication/network issue
Electrified system issue
Recent filings
The 10 most recent filings for each type.
2018 KIA FORTE
Filed Sep 2, 2026
There is an issue with the fuel pump where it would stall or shut off while driving or at a stoplight
2016 KIA FORTE
Filed Aug 31, 2026
Im getting denied dued to engine failure but whoever had the vehicle before didn't follow up with the ksds update, I just purchased the vehicle on June 30th,2026, I need this fixed ASAP because I still owe on this car.
2018 KIA FORTE
Filed Aug 31, 2026
The contact's son owns a 2018 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while her son was driving approximately 55 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended, with the oil pressure warning light and several other unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact slowed down and pulled over to the side of the road, and the vehicle was turned off. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle, but there was white smoke coming from the engine. The contact raised…
2014 KIA FORTE
Filed Aug 31, 2026
There is a bad flexible steering coupler. Caused steering wheel to click and lose responsiveness, shakes going over bumps. The problem was diagnosed and confirmed by the dealer Vehicle was inspected by dealer There were no warning signs other than the wheel click and losing responsiveness.
2012 KIA FORTE
Filed Aug 28, 2026
Airbag light came on August 21, 2026. I tried several steps to troubleshoot with no resolution. I took it to the local Kia dealership for further inspection. I was terrified to drive the vehicle because of the airbag failure. I explained to the technician that I had read that there was an warranty extension for the exact clock spring failure. I met the qualification (2011-2016 /unlimited mileage) but I was required to pay $493.05 for this repair.
2019 KIA FORTE
Filed Aug 26, 2026
recommended engine replacement at 111,000 miles
2012 KIA FORTE
Filed Aug 26, 2026
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed an abnormal sound for approximately five minutes, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact then became aware of a fire underneath the vehicle. The contact opened the hood and extinguished the fire using water and dirt. The vehicle was unoccupied. The contact stated that the vehicle had just been parked, and the engine was off prior to the failure. The dealer was made…
2020 KIA FORTE
Filed Aug 25, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bags warning light illuminated and then went off. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the air bag warning light was again illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of…
2023 KIA FORTE
Filed Aug 24, 2026
Electrical system failed while operating vehicle on major highway. All lights flashed, system shut off, power steering locked up.
2020 KIA FORTE
Filed Aug 23, 2026
Engine burning excessive oil over a quart in 1000 miles. Catalytic converter code P0420 because of the excessive oil burning. Oil was always changed within the specified dealer milage range.