Kia Forte Complaints

2,563 consumer complaints on file.

#11683563August 28, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Oil plug came out while driving causing an engine failure. We have seen several report already made for this issue.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11683514August 27, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: Unintended full brake engagement at highway speeds caused by electronic parking brake/Auto Hold button defect. Extreme risk of collision. Details: On [XXX], my wife was driving our 2023 Kia Forte GT Line when the Auto Hold and electronic parking brake system malfunctioned. The system fully engaged the brakes without warning while traveling at highway speed, scraping the brake rotors and creating an immediate risk of being rear-ended. This occurred multiple times. The following day ([XXX], the brake pedal would not depress at all, rendering the vehicle undrivable. The dealership (McFarland Kia, North Hampton, NH) diagnosed “a sticky substance” inside the electronic parking brake button, located next to the cupholder. There have never been any liquid spills in this vehicle. The more likely cause is a combination of factory lubrication and normal dust/debris accumulation over time. If such a small amount of dust or residue can trigger unintended full braking while driving, it is a dangerous design flaw that poses a life-threatening hazard to drivers and passengers. The vehicle was repaired after I paid $284.99 out-of-pocket, but I am pursuing reimbursement through my Zurich Vehicle Service Contract. I have also requested an independent third-party brake and rotor inspection, as this defect may have caused further damage. Why this is a safety issue: Sudden, uncommanded braking at highway speeds can cause high-speed rear-end collisions. The defect can occur without visible warning and without any driver action. The defect can be triggered by minimal non-liquid debris, which is unavoidable over the life of a vehicle. I am requesting NHTSA investigate whether this is an isolated case or part of a larger design defect in the Kia Forte’s electronic parking brake/Auto Hold system. This condition should not be possible in a vehicle that meets federal safety standards. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682756August 25, 2025
ENGINE
Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am submitting this safety complaint to request an investigation into the adequacy of Kia Motors’ recall coverage for oil pump failures in the 2017 Kia Forte. My vehicle recently experienced a complete oil pump failure, creating a serious risk of sudden engine seizure and potential loss of vehicle control. This type of failure poses an immediate danger to both occupants and other motorists. While Kia has issued recalls and service campaigns addressing oil pump defects in certain models and production ranges, my vehicle identification number (VIN) is not included—despite my case matching the symptoms, mechanical failures, and safety concerns described in those campaigns. This raises concern that the current recall scope is too limited and does not adequately protect all affected owners. Under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, manufacturers are required to address safety-related defects in all affected vehicles at no cost to the consumer. If the recall scope is incomplete, other Kia Forte owners remain at risk of sudden mechanical failure, which could lead to crashes or injuries. I respectfully request that NHTSA review Kia’s recall parameters for this defect and determine whether additional VIN ranges should be included. I am prepared to provide detailed service records, diagnostic findings, and photographic evidence of the oil pump failure in my vehicle to assist with this review. Please confirm receipt of this complaint and inform me of the next steps in your investigation. I appreciate your attention to this urgent safety matter.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682544August 23, 2025
ENGINE
On [XXX] my son was driving on the highway when the car suddenly shut off.. thank god he was able to safely get to the side of the road. Had it towed to my local mechanic who stated that the engine is seized up. The car is only 6 yrs old and well maintained. There were no prior problems or signs. Need a new engine. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682452August 22, 2025
AIR BAGS
The contact owned a 2016 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while decelerating due to traffic, the vehicle was struck in the rear end and pushed approximately a few feet, causing the vehicle's front end to crash into the rear of the vehicle in front. No warning lights illuminated. No air bags deployed. The contact stated that due to the impact of the crash, she had fallen unconscious. A police report was filed. The contact sought medical attention for bruises and head damage. The vehicle was towed to the local tow lot, where it remains, and was declared a total loss by the insurance provider. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V031000 (Airbags) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11682120August 21, 2025
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while his son was driving 35 MPH, the timing chain tensioner snapped, causing the vehicle to lose automotive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and the contact was informed that the timing chain tensioner, and timing chain were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 111,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682254August 21, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ENGINE
I own a 2020 Kia Forte LXS with approximately 136,000 miles. The check engine light came on with code P0420 (“catalyst system efficiency below threshold”), and an Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers location confirmed the catalytic converter is failing. The back pressure was measured and is within spec but slightly elevated, showing the part is deteriorating. I was also told my O2 sensors are burned due to the failing catalytic converter. This failure affects drivability and safety: the vehicle sometimes struggles on acceleration and hills, and I feel vibrations through the gas pedal. Because I commute 50 miles each way to work on the interstate, sudden loss of power would put me at risk in high-speed traffic. I have learned Kia and Hyundai vehicles from other years/models (including the Forte) have had recalls and extended warranties for premature catalytic converter failure and excessive oil consumption, but Kia has not yet extended coverage to the 2020 Forte. This appears to be the same issue. The vehicle has been inspected by Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, and the quoted cost for replacement is $3,000–$3,600. This should be investigated for potential recall or warranty extension to include the 2020 model year.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11681500August 19, 2025
ENGINE
Car started hesitating the RED OIL LIGHT came on on the dash it flickered on and off for a few days but and still goes on and off now but 90% of the time it stays on while car is in use. I don't have an oil leak and I'm not low on fluid. I believe foreign particles are getting clogged in oil pump and or filter. Most 2017 kia fortes already have a recall for this. I don't understand why mine isn't recalled also. Plz help. If I have engine damage and car stalls it could be a safety hazard for me and others. I have small children. Please help.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11681624August 19, 2025
AIR BAGS, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
the air bag light is on, the cruise control stop working around the same time, the light came on.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11681154August 17, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The electric side mirror/s controls not working correctly. The motor is buzzing and unable to set the mirrors accurately. This could drain the cars battery. The electric mirror had to be disconnect until gets repaired.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11680914August 15, 2025
AIR BAGS
The air bag light comes on and off. Rubber Weather stripping leaking. Runs hot.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11680039August 12, 2025
ENGINE
2021 Kia Forte VIN# [XXX] 107,000 miles While driving my Kia Forte on [XXX] i experienced a sudden noise without warning just 2 months to the exact date after an oil change. The vehicle became unsafe to operate and could not accelerate properly. In some cases it would no have it would feel like it was losing power and creating a scary and dangerous situation. A certified mechanic diagnosed there was no oil in my vehicle which matches the oil consumption defect identified in Kia's Theta II GDI engine recalls and nationwide class action settlement. Kia has acknowledged in public filing that is defect poses a risk of engine seizing and fire. Although my VIN is not currently listed under any active recall, my vehicle exhibits the exact same defect pattern as recalled vehicles, including sudden loss of power at highway speeds which is a significant safety hazard. Manufactures Response: I contacted Kia Corporate to request an engine replacement consistent with the recall and the settlement remedies and they refused to cover the repair solely because my VIN is not included in the recall list despite the defect being identical. Safety Concern: The sudden loss of power creates a risk of rear-end collisions, loss of control and potential fire. This defect can be life threatening and should not be excluded from recall coverage simply due to VIN range. Requested Action: I am requesting that NHTSA investigate why vehicles with identical engine defects, including mine have been excluded from recall coverage and compel Kia to provide a no-cost repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11679761August 11, 2025
ENGINE
Oil pump on vehicle failed, result was severe internal damage to motor, entire engine needed replaced at 120,600 miles.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11679654August 10, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Kia is lying to a judge in Lancaster county PA and federal court by stating I did not opt out of class action when they know I opted out end of 2023. Kia also knows these cars are still being stolen and have taken no action to prevent thefts or damage to vehicles. The "upgrade" does not work. My car sustained 7000.00 of damage in May 2025 and had the "upgrade" installed. On the same night, the same people stole multiple other kias and caused severe damage to numerous other vehicles within a 20 mile radius. My report was made to pa state police. The only reason why they didnt actually steal my car was because on same night they tried to also steal my neighbors sorrento at same time. When they attacked her car, her alarm went off and the group fled in 2 sedan type vehicles. Kia has done absolutely nothing to prevent thefts or damage to these vehicles and now have lied to judges in my case. They are trying to force me back into the class action as they dont want to pay me for damages they caused and the class action settlement is a joke. That is why I opted out almost 2 years ago now. Kia are liars.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11679697August 10, 2025
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
No Accident just routine maintenance finds that are concerning me . The car is 15 yrs old but over the years have had to replace the brake light bulb harness several times The brake light bulbs get too hot thus melting the bulb receptacle causing the brake lights not to illuminate. Have had vehicles come up behind me several times way too close for comfort because brake lights not working .
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11679307August 8, 2025
ENGINE
Oil leak with no warning signal what so ever . My car can completely run out of oil and the light won't turn in at all.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11679060August 7, 2025
ENGINE
Took care to kis for a recall picked it up and got down the street and it died on me brought it back to Kia and was told it was okay just the oil filter took Kia home and changed oil and filter and car kept going dead would restart but the die again after driving for a little bit. The car kept going dead in middle of road interstate turning into lane across from on going traffic very unsafe. Took care back to Kia the scanned it and checked recall they did and said it was ok took car home again and same problem it now has a loud knock or chattering sound while driving.and it's still going dead. Took care back to Kia again and now they say there is internal engine failure and that I don't have the extended warranty because my mileage is just over the limit for regular warranty. And they will not offer goodwill either because the Internal engine failure. My car drove just fine no problems until I took it to them for the recall and now they say they can't help with nothing. With being disabled and a student I worked really hard to get this car and I need it to get to appointments school and therapy. This has taken away my transportation my happiness and my hard work And effort. It takes a lot to accomplish things being disabled and this makes it even harder. I want to give up most days being able to get to school gave me a purpose and I felt like I belonged. I feel it is only far to have another opinion and to have goodwill being the issue occured after the recall took place. Please help me get my car back and running I've given life and my education my all and my best with what circumstances I have to go through to make it through a day and not having the one things that I earned and worked so hard for taken away from me is really defeating and hard.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11679089August 7, 2025
AIR BAGS
Air bag light turned on June 2025. Could not be reset. Had local shop read the code. Driver's side air bag, likely clock spring. Brought it to the dealership after a month wait for appointment. It was confirmed that it was the Clock Spring and replaced. This is not a wear part. Research shows a very common issue with other kia and hyundai makes and models of a similar age that were actively recalled.. Kia declined and will not reimburse due to not having a recall for my specific make, model, and year.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11679219August 7, 2025
ENGINE
[XXX] [XXX] [XXX] 08/07/2025 [XXX] Kia America, Inc. Consumer Affairs P.O. Box 52410 Irvine, CA 92619-2410 Subject: Request for Reconsideration of Engine Replacement – 2015 Kia Forte Dear Kia Customer Care Team, I am writing to formally request a reconsideration regarding the recent denial of assistance for my 2015 Kia Forte ([XXX]), which has experienced a major engine failure at approximately 157,000 miles I was informed by your customer service department that my vehicle is not eligible for the engine replacement under the recall or extended warranty programs due to timing. However, I am aware that Kia has had significant and well-documented issues with the 2.0L GDI engines used in my vehicle model year. The problem in my car appears to be consistent with the same engine defects that have affected countless others — in my case, a serious piston-related failure that now requires a full engine replacement. As a loyal Kia owner who has taken good care of my vehicle, I am incredibly disappointed that such a severe defect would surface and that my only option, per current communication, is to replace the engine at my own expense — something that is financially unfeasible for me. My car has otherwise been well maintained and was expected to last many more miles. I respectfully ask that Kia extend goodwill assistance in this matter. Whether through an extended warranty exception, cost-sharing on the repair, or any alternative solution, I would greatly appreciate any support Kia can offer in helping resolve this issue. I believe in your brand and want to continue to support it, but I also believe this issue is not just due to normal wear and tear. Please reconsider this decision and help me get back on the road safely. I am open to speaking with a representative if more information is needed and look forward to your response. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678419August 5, 2025
ENGINE
I purchased the 2016 Kia Forte on [XXX] from Bald Hill Kia in Warwick, RI. Within the first 30 days, there was a knocking noise which turned out to be the knocking sensor. I took the car to be checked on 11/1/2022 and paid to replace the knock sensor. On [XXX], the knock sensor acted up again so the knock sensor had to be replaced again. They also found a small evap leak and the charcoal canister was cracked and replaced. On 12/9/2022, the engine assembly was replaced. On [XXX], the check engine light came on and the O2 sensor was replaced. On 1/5/2023, the catalytic converter had to be replaced. On 1/16/2023, the canister purge valved was replaced. On 8/29/2023, the catalytic converter had to be replaced again. On 6/11/2024, the catalytic converter had to be replaced a third time! Over a year passed and on Saturday afternoon on [XXX] the check engine light turned on again and Kia was closed on Sunday so I took the car to Firestone for a diagnostic test and it turned out that it was the catalytic converter for the 4th time. I dropped off the car in 8/4/2025 and I'm waiting to see if the car can get looked at this week to confirm the problem for a 4th time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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