Kia Forte Kia Forte

We are 103,000+ car owners sharing real-world car information.

Join Us

Kia Forte repairs by problem area

Engine (24%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (8%)

Brakes and Traction Control (7%)

Suspension and Steering (11%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (30%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (13%)

Other (7%)

Chart based on 242 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the Kia Forte.

Kia Forte repair cost distribution

$2500+ (2%)

$1000 - $2499 (2%)

$500 - $999 (2%)

$100 - $499 (23%)

< $100 (71%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 143 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2019 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

147-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable CVT FWD

Kia Forte in Virginia, United States
May 2019 - Jun 2022
Jan 2019

7000 mi
Replaced driver door lock under warranty 
May 2019

7000 mi
Transmission failed. Replaced under warranty 
Jun 2019

90000 mi
Replaced battery under warranty 
Dec 2020

15000 mi
Transmission failed. Replaced second time under warranty 

Return to top

2018 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

147-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in North Carolina, United States
Jan 2021 - Jun 2022
Jun 2022

53000 mi

US $120
AC flush and re-charge 

Return to top

2017 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

147-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Illinois, United States
Jun 2017 - Mar 2022
Dec 2017

27000 mi
Right Front and Left Rear rear door handles came off. Dealer ordered part but it came unpainted. Took a week for the parts to be ready and 45 mins to install. 
Jun 2018

45000 mi
Backup camera developed a leak, water got in and ruined the camera. Dealer replaced under warranty. Left rear door handle broke off. Part took 4 days to arrive and another 3 days to paint. This is the second time this door handle has broken off. 
Jan 2020

96000 mi

US $250
Front Passenger and Rear Drivers Side door handle caps were broken causing the door handles to come out in your hand. Parts came unpainted from the dealer. Painted and installed parts and noticed the dealer had stripped the screws on the previous reinstall. After examining the one remaining door cap, it was noticed that they were overtightened causing them to crack and fail. Door handle caps are of a poor design and are damaged because they are overtightened during installation and the dealer using a standard Phillips on a JIS screw. 
Mar 2020

102165 mi

US $233
Intermittent start due to rust buildup on the top of the starter due to road salt. Replaced starter and problem went away. 
Mar 2022

160000 mi
Car kept stalling at speeds between 25 and 35 mph. Would use 1 quart of engine every 1,000 miles. Dealer said the car had a bad engine and needed a replacement. 

Return to top

2016 Kia Forte 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 201hp 1.6L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Kia Forte in California, United States
Jan 2019 - Oct 2022
Jul 2019

14000 mi
Surging/hesitation reported, exhaust manifold turbo charger replaced. 

Return to top

2016 Kia Forte 4dr Hatch

173-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Minnesota, United States
Jun 2017 - Jul 2021
Aug 2017

3000 mi
Fabric on rear side of backseat was out of slot, had to be reinserted. Repair was done successfully. 

Return to top

2015 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

173-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Saskatchewan, Canada
Jun 2017 - Jan 2022
Jan 2022

17980 mi

C $400
Emissions system 

Return to top

2015 Kia Forte 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 201hp 1.6L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Florida, United States
Jun 2017 - Jun 2022
Nov 2021

31000 mi

US $750
motor on side mirror burned out. {the other side also burned out a few years before but was covered by original warranty} two trips. one to pay for parts that were not inventory. the second to do the work. Replaced motor of mirror and also the mirror assembly 

Return to top

2015 Kia Forte 4dr Hatch

173-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in California, United States
May 2018 - Nov 2019
Oct 2018

18993 mi

US $1700
TPMS Sensor recall Side mirror would not go up/down 

Return to top

2014 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

173-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2014 - Mar 2018
Dec 2017

44640 mi

C $1000
all pads, rotors worn 
Kia Forte in Michigan, United States
Jul 2013 - Oct 2014
Oct 2014

85000 mi
Steering wheel leather was flaking off at the top of the wheel. Dealer initially told me that because the car is over 60k miles they wouldn't replace it. However the district manager authorized warranty replacement after creating a case. 
Kia Forte in Texas, United States
Jul 2013 - Jun 2022
Jul 2014

10700 mi
The display screen for the backup camera and audio system was black and not responding, even though the audio system was working. Loose fuse, fixed by pulling it out and re-seating it. 
Aug 2021

42000 mi

US $370
Problem: cabin light flashing occasionally when I made a turn, eventually the icon in the dash that signified an open door also flashed when I made a turn. Solution: turned out a door sensor was malfunctioning and reporting an open door when I turned. It was replaced, along with an oil change. 

Return to top

2014 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

148-horsepower 1.8L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in California, United States
May 2013 - Jun 2018
Mar 2017

99000 mi

US $120
Replaced battery. 
Apr 2018

125000 mi

US $200
One recall notice was for fuel volume supply. The other was for a brake pedal contact I believe. I had an exhaust emission light on the dashboard before the recall repair, yet it was intermittent. When in the shop, they could not duplicate. After the repair, it started to show up more and now is constant. I will probably live with it.  The other problem I"m living with is intermittent bluetooth. Kia says orig unit not so compatible with upgraded iphones. Dealer cost was something like 800 for new radio unit so I am living with that as well for now. Not sure what I'll do. 
Jun 2018

126000 mi

US $2500
Cylinder 2 not holding full compression, and estimated cost $2K to $2.5K. Because of the mileage of the car, and potential for other problems, I ended up trading in the car for a new Honda Civic. Up to now, liked the Kia, but was very disappointed to have this problem so early. Not sure if I'd buy another one or not. 
Kia Forte in Quebec, Canada
Jul 2013 - Jun 2018
Apr 2014

5160 mi
Paint chip on hood, both pillars A, both front side, roof, they had to repaint. After the repair, i have seen other spots that are damaged on 3 of the 4 doors. Very annoying for a new car. 
May 2014

5860 mi
Paint chips continued to appear over the body and door. The repainted the entire vehicle except front bumper. 
Jun 2015

12400 mi
Loose Link Kit have been replaced (knocking noises) 
Feb 2016

18600 mi
Steering have difficulty to return to center and it's worse during winter. They checked but told me that is the normal operation for this electric steering. 
Kia Forte in Colorado, United States
May 2014 - Aug 2019
Jun 2015

24000 mi
The casing around one of the rear brake lights leaked into the trunk and back seat area. During the rainy season we had, it really messed up the back seat. This was happening to several Forte's at the time as we researched the problem first. 

Return to top

2014 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

Kia Forte in Ohio, United States
Jul 2013 - Jul 2018
Sep 2014

22000 mi
Check engine light was on. Dealer said it was a software glitch and reflashed software. 
May 2016

50300 mi
Right rear window motor was not operating. Dealer replaced motor under warranty. 
Jul 2018

86000 mi

US $22
Leak in gasket on oil drain plug. Gasket was replaced, all is well. 

Return to top

2014 Kia Forte 2dr Coupe

turbocharged 201hp 1.6L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Texas, United States
Nov 2015 - Jun 2018
Jul 2016

9800 mi
replaced GDI high pressure fuel pump under warranty 

Return to top

2012 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in California, United States
Jun 2017 - Jun 2022
Jul 2021

125000 mi

US $2299
Replace front passenger seat frame. Slips while driving. Replace a/c compressor 
Mar 2022

133117 mi
Bad work last time. Unstuck valves and recharged system. Was not blowing cold enough air. 
Kia Forte in Minnesota, United States
May 2022 - May 2023
Mar 2022

88000 mi

US $7000
Engine rod failure 

Return to top

2012 Kia Forte 4dr Hatch

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Kia Forte in British Columbia, Canada
Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
May 2018

30380 mi

C $30
[headlight bulb] 

Return to top

2012 Kia Forte 2dr Coupe

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Georgia, United States
- Nov 2012
Nov 2012

7000 mi
Replace head lamp unit due to condensation inside unit. 

Return to top

2011 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Maryland, United States
Apr 2018 - May 2018
May 2018

107397 mi

US $36
Engine air filter replaced. Cabin air filter replaced with fram fresh breeze charcoal filter. 

Return to top

2011 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Manitoba, Canada
Jan 2013 - Oct 2017
Feb 2013

11360 mi
Drivers seatbelt sticks during cold weather. Sometimes unable fully pull out belt to put it on. 
May 2013

12480 mi
Seat belt remains an issue. This time they submitted the part request from Kia. Still waiting. 
Oct 2013

14760 mi

C $60
mudguard replaced 
Jan 2014

17360 mi
Would not start. Flap frozen open due to cold 

Return to top

2011 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Arkansas, United States
Jul 2016 - Jul 2017
Jun 2016

58000 mi

US $300
Rear view mirror detached from the windshield. Required replacement. Fuel door wouldn't open. Fuel door wouldn't open. 
Kia Forte in British Columbia, Canada
Nov 2011 - Jul 2021
May 2014

15500 mi
Steering wheel audio controls were behaving erratically. Dealer replaced the controls on the steering wheel, which corrected the problem. 
Aug 2017

29760 mi

C $400
Replaced the steering elbow joint which had become worn and was producing a clunking sound on rough surfaces. 
Kia Forte in Saskatchewan, Canada
Oct 2010 - Feb 2022
Dec 2010

1240 mi
Ignition key sticks, not sure why 
Jan 2011

2480 mi
Cruise control did not work correctly. Could not remove ignition key when car was in park, told that I was being too gentle putting it in park. replaced cruise control 
Jul 2011

7440 mi
Warranty recall of dashboard clock. The clock would freeze up (as in showing the same time for several hours) then go blank. They ended up replacing the clock completely. 
May 2014

40920 mi
Transmission cooling line failed, ordered and replaced cooling line. Car was in shop for so long due to delay in getting part 
Nov 2015

60760 mi
Tensioner on power steering was squeaking, replaced tensioner 
Mar 2017

75020 mi

C $100
Shifter pin was broken, when put into park it would overextend and the keys would not come out. Parts are on order currently, expected replacement time is 2-3 weeks after repair. 
Kia Forte in Ohio, United States
Apr 2011 - Dec 2016
Mar 2012

36000 mi

US $130
Windshield wiper motor was defective. Also, map light bulb replaced 
Nov 2016

161300 mi

US $330
Motor makes a tapping/knocking noise. Timing chain, tensioner, and guides replaced. This repair did not correct the problem. Mechanic stated that it could be a wrist pin or a piston slap. 
Kia Forte in Manitoba, Canada
Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
Jun 2018

68200 mi

C $80
Engine short block replacement, timing chain kit, oil pump, pistons and crankshaft 
Kia Forte in Nova Scotia, Canada
Aug 2011 - Jun 2014
Sep 2011

620 mi
Car was starting in the morning but idle speed was ranging from 1600-2600 RPMs and not coming down, even in the afternoon leaving work same thing would occur. Had ECM update by dealer, waiting to see if it solves the problem. dealer had car overnight, seen idle speed act up, completed ECM update again. Been known not to work the first time. Note: New Kias are designed to idle higher than normal initially to heat up catalytic convertor to reduce emission gases. 
Apr 2014

45440 mi
Parking Sensor would was not working, car would not release key from ignition. Car remained in alternator position. 
Kia Forte in Massachusetts, United States
Apr 2012 - Jun 2018
Jul 2014

47500 mi
Water pump was working but faulty & making a whistling noise a high speeds. 

Return to top

2011 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Kia Forte in Minnesota, United States
Feb 2011 - Sep 2012
Jun 2012

20000 mi
Car started to overheat during rush hour traffic. Brought to dealer after second occurrence; first time added fluid. Overheated to 250 degrees F. Dealer tightened connections to radiator fan because fan was not engaging. 

Return to top

2011 Kia Forte 4dr Hatch

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Indiana, United States
Feb 2011 - Aug 2014
Feb 2012

30000 mi
Rear hatch loose 
Oct 2013

81200 mi

US $300
Transmission cooling line failed, all fluid lost on expressway. Car towed to dealer. 
Kia Forte in New York, United States
Oct 2011 - Dec 2012
Mar 2012

7000 mi

US $50
Gas milage not up to what it should be 
Kia Forte in Delaware, United States
Feb 2011 - Mar 2011
Jan 2011

1000 mi
car driffs to the right after two weeks of purchase. repair shop recomennded replacing rear beam 
Kia Forte in Vermont, United States
Aug 2011 - Feb 2013
Jan 2012 wouldn't start; had to be towed to dealer where they replaced a bad starter 
Feb 2013

35000 mi
Leaking transmission lines were replaced under warranty. The dealer asked about a prior radiator replacement (after I hit a deer) but it was not clear if they thought that could have contributed to the transmission issues. 

Return to top

2011 Kia Forte 4dr Hatch

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
Oct 2013 - Dec 2016
May 2016

53320 mi
Clunking noise coming from front of car when hitting bumps. Quiet at first but got louder over several months. Front right stabilizer bar replaced under warranty, fixed. Took dealer two weeks to get in part which was annoying. 

Return to top

2011 Kia Forte 4dr Hatch

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Texas, United States
Apr 2013 - Nov 2015
May 2013

40700 mi
A pressurized transmission fluid line came loose while I was driving. 
Kia Forte in Florida, United States
Oct 2010 - Sep 2015
Dec 2010

4000 mi
A sensor for the Electronic Stability Control was faulty and needed to be replaced. ESC would engage automatically without warrant. 
Jun 2011

15000 mi
TPMS bad, replaced. clock broken, replaced. 
Oct 2012

41000 mi

US $5
Rattle developed in the hatch windows. I installed foam into the crease to stop noise. Paint on the wiper arm has peeled off. 
Kia Forte in Illinois, United States
Sep 2011 - Mar 2017
Oct 2011

7000 mi
Gas smell in passenger cabin. Dealer could not reproduce. Has happened several times since then. 
Mar 2016

55000 mi
Noise over bumps. Dealer replaced stabilizer linkage under warranty. 
Kia Forte in Saskatchewan, Canada
Jan 2011 - Jun 2012
Apr 2011

1860 mi
Clock quit working, cruise control was acting up. 
May 2011

1860 mi
Power switch on the sun roof quit working 
Kia Forte in Pennsylvania, United States
Jul 2014 - Aug 2017
Dec 2015

54000 mi
Engine noise like a valve or lifter at cold start start Noise similar to valve/lifter . KIA Rep listened to noise and determined there was an engine problem (not sure exactly what). Decided to replace motor. After new parts are received dealer will install new short block motor and rebuild he 
Jul 2017

75000 mi

US $425
Rear brake pads were worn and scarred rotors. Brake pads and rotors/calipers were replaced 

Return to top

2011 Kia Forte 4dr Hatch

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Kia Forte in Massachusetts, United States
Dec 2011 - Jan 2013
Jan 2012

15000 mi
Cracked heat shield on exhaust 

Return to top

2011 Kia Forte 2dr Coupe

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Kansas, United States
Sep 2012 - Jul 2018
Oct 2012

18800 mi
I took it to get my oil change and the guy said that some seal was leaking oil, not badly but leaking. Took it to the dealer, they acknowledged the problem and were more than willing to fix it promptly and under warranty. 
Jan 2015

50000 mi
Car was making a knocking noise. Took car to a Kia dealership, they diagnosed broken swing arm. They replaced the part that day and it was covered under the warranty. 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte

Engine not specified

Kia Forte in Colombia
Sep 2010 - Jul 2011
Oct 2010

13020 mi
A noise in transmision felt on tires 
Apr 2011

15700 mi
In shop three times to fix AC odor. Never fixed 
Jul 2011

16740 mi
Noise in transmission they said was exhaust. Also occasionally jerked from a stop. AC odor still present when sold. 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Kia Forte in Louisiana, United States
Mar 2011 - Jul 2012
Jun 2012

26000 mi
steering wheel electronics malfunction ie stereo 
Kia Forte in Quebec, Canada
Jan 2014 - Mar 2014
Jan 2014

38440 mi
TCS and ABS control module failed, CEL was on/off for the past two months....car was in the shop for 5 days total last month, they changed about everything related to brakes and TCS module 
Mar 2014

38440 mi
Even after changing the whole ABS, stability control and electronic module for the car last january, 2 weeks later, the same identical problem reappeared. I had enough and traded the car for a Toyota. 
Kia Forte in Indiana, United States
Mar 2010 - Apr 2012
Jul 2010

6000 mi
two fuel injectors leak fuel. Dealer replaced them. 
Apr 2012

43000 mi
oil leak around oil pan due to failed liquid gasket. Dealer sealed. Took 1 day to "diagnose" the leak and 1 day to repair. 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in British Columbia, Canada
Dec 2010 - Jan 2011
Jan 2011

20460 mi
transmission slipping. ordered new transmission to be installed. taking forever. 
Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
Nov 2009 - Dec 2017
Oct 2014

47620 mi
Side Oil pan was leaking. Gasket and oil pan was changed (it is a small one on the driver's side??!). 
Kia Forte in Kansas, United States
Oct 2009 - May 2012
Jan 2010

5000 mi
hard shift from 2nd to 3rd gear first time after engine start 
May 2010

12000 mi
Car experienced a hard shift on first shift from 2nd to 3rd (automatic) after starting. Transmission replaced. Later notice similar problem with new transmission, but only if drive with very light foot. Programming issue? new airbag deployment program to cover expanded deployment scenerios. 
May 2011

38000 mi
TPMS light would come on periodically even though no puncture existed in tire. Found nut on inside if TPMS sensor stripped/damaged. Replaced TPMS sensor and nut. Dealer preformed software update to ECU for A/C logic control at idle speed. No problem notice before work done and no difference noticed after work done. 
Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2011 - Feb 2014
Sep 2011

60140 mi
Tranny was previously replaced, Kia aware of the Hard Shift in the car but say they are unable to duplicate it in the week they had car while I paid for rental. Been acting up like this since new, 2 nd week I complained many attempts at kia 
Feb 2014

140120 mi
Needed a new stabilizer bar. 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

Kia Forte in California, United States
Sep 2009 - Jun 2011
Oct 2009

3000 mi
After much debate with KIA, the transmission was replaced. There was grinding in the 2nd to 3rd gear. 
Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
Feb 2011 - Feb 2022
Jan 2014

55480 mi
The horn works intermittently, it is totally unreliable. Many times in traffic the horn just doesn't work. At the dealership they tested it a few times and it worked, they didn't fix. They told me to go when it doesn't work but it's rando 
Kia Forte in Massachusetts, United States
Oct 2009 - May 2014
Oct 2010

10200 mi

US $25
TSB025/SA047 front strut noise repair 
Jul 2011

15000 mi

US $63
ECM upgrade 
Feb 2012

20000 mi
SA085 Front Wheel Arch Sealing 
Jul 2013

29000 mi
Right rear caliper was partially frozen, i.e., would not completely release, causing accelerated wear to pads and rotor. Entire assembly replaced under warranty. 
Mar 2014

33000 mi
Flex pipe from exhaust manifold was leaking. It was replaced under warranty. 
Kia Forte in Alberta, Canada
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Mar 2010

620 mi
The boot on the front right shock came loose, repaired under warranty. 
Kia Forte in Nebraska, United States
Mar 2010 - Mar 2018
Oct 2011

10700 mi
Broken sunglass holder/dome light assembly 
Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2010 - Jun 2011
Feb 2010

8060 mi
Chrome finish on exterior door handles was coming off. 
Kia Forte in Colombia
Jan 2010 - Dec 2012
May 2011

9300 mi
Bearing missalligned inside the manual gearbox was causing some sort of whistle. They replaced it. 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 5-speed automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Pennsylvania, United States
Apr 2010 - May 2020
Aug 2011

13400 mi
ESC was turning off intermittently. Problem was due to a faulty brake light switch which was replaced. 
Aug 2012

22800 mi

US $110
Rear caliper sticking, premature pad wear. 
Jun 2013

32000 mi
Brake light switch defective, causing ESC off indicator to illuminate. This is the 2nd time in 2 years that I have had this repair performed. 
Dec 2014

47000 mi

US $80
Losing air from one tire. Tire shop found that the metal valve stem was leaking. I had to purchase a new sensor + valve stem (not sold separately even though they are independent parts). The tire shop put it in with no labor charge. 
Jan 2016

24500 mi
Stop lamp (brake light) switch defective (3rd time this has happened). Now there is a recall for the problem, so hopefully the new part is going to last longer than the first three did. Leaky gasket replaced. 
Sep 2016

68000 mi
Replaced flex exhaust (hole), and O2 sensor 
Jan 2020

105000 mi

US $1700
Needed complete front end rebuild. 
Kia Forte in Michigan, United States
Mar 2010 - Jun 2011
Nov 2010

16400 mi
Airbag light was on, they replaced the module. 
Kia Forte in California, United States
Sep 2009 - Mar 2013
Nov 2009

1000 mi
Jerky shift on 5 sp auto trans 2-3 shift Jerky shift on 5sp auto trans 2-3 shift 
Jan 2010

4000 mi
Jerky shift on 5sp auto trans 2-3 shift Defective transmission, harsh shift 
Apr 2011

38000 mi
Passenger front seat belt latch failed Seat belt latch replaced 
Mar 2012

66000 mi
Oil leak that I assume to be front crankshaft seal. Dealer has added dye to oil to find source of leak. Must make second trip to dealer in one week. Oil leak part 2. Deal checked leak with dye. Determined seal NOT leaking, oil leaking through the pan. Manufacturer determined leak was a seep and not a weep therefor not covered by warantee WTF?? Car still leaks oil we are NOT happy 
Nov 2012

77400 mi

US $110
heated exterior mirrors quit heating 
Mar 2013

81000 mi
Oil leak through porous aluminum pan. Traded car because led to believe would get over 30 mpg, but gets 27-28. 
Kia Forte in North Carolina, United States
Jul 2016 - Jul 2018
Aug 2017

92000 mi

US $40
Driver side and passenger side door sensor went out and wouldn't register when the door was opened. Replaced sensor in door jam. Haven't actually fixed it since it seems like more trouble than it is worth, but several buttons on the steering wheel only work intermittently, sometimes not recognizing that I hit it when I deliberately did or sometimes doing something other than what it supposed to. Cruise control is the worst and barely works now. 
Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2016 - Sep 2018
Sep 2017

65100 mi

C $200
Sway Bar passenger side and Transmission fluid 
Kia Forte in New York, United States
Oct 2009 - Oct 2012
Dec 2009

2000 mi
Shift programming issue. Can not replicate 
Aug 2010

9000 mi
Total transmission replacement under warranty to fix abrupt shifting. New transmission acts the same. Escalating to Kia corporate. Too bad, so many nice features to the car. 
Jun 2011

16000 mi

US $70
Told that rough shifting is normal. 
Oct 2012

29000 mi
Never could resolve rough shifting. They gave me a great deal on a trade for a new Optima. 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte 4dr Sedan

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

Kia Forte in California, United States
May 2015 - Jun 2015
May 2015

93000 mi

US $130
Vent stopped blowing heat or air conditioning. Then started again without repair. Then stopped again. 
Jun 2015

93000 mi
iPhone very problematic linking to audio system, after latest iPhone software update 
Kia Forte in Ohio, United States
Jun 2010 - Jan 2016
Sep 2013

39000 mi
Car only had 1 of the 3 top car-seat LATCH clips. Had the other two installed by the dealer. 
Sep 2014

49000 mi

US $58
Tire pressure sensor was leaking 
Kia Forte in Quebec, Canada
Jul 2010 - Dec 2011
Jan 2011

8060 mi

C $15
Replaced cruise control part. Replaced cruise control part Reset Security/lock/auto-start system Replaced batteries in car starter remote Verified function of wiper heater  Electrical, other than above, repair Verrified battery since it required a boost (with nothing having been left on)  
Kia Forte in Pennsylvania, United States
Nov 2013 - Jul 2022
Oct 2017

56979 mi

US $231
One rear shock was leaking. Replaced both rear shocks 
May 2021

70455 mi

US $133
AC was not cold. Mechanic found low fluid. He evacuated the system and recharged it. 
Apr 2022

71956 mi

US $164
AC not working again. Mechanic was unable to locate leak so evacuated and recharged system. That made it work temporarily 
Jun 2022

72307 mi

US $896
AC failed again. This time we took to a dealer. Dealer was again unable to locate the leak. Evacuated and Refilled system again. Dealer finally found the leak. Replaced Condenser and the pressure switch then recharged the system. 
Kia Forte in Malaysia
Aug 2010 - Mar 2015
Nov 2011

20460 mi
Rattling and buzzing noise from front door trim.  And door handle silver paint peeling off at one door. Gear knob paint peeling off too. Still waiting for replacement parts. 
Oct 2014

54340 mi

$200
Steering rack bush defect causing knocking sound when turning when Car is stationary. Service Center needs to submit warranty claim before they can replace the defective part.  
Kia Forte in Michigan, United States
Jul 2010 - Nov 2019
Sep 2010

6000 mi
Passenger side rear door automatic door lock not working. 
Mar 2013

59000 mi

US $126
Fuel injectors dirty and clogged. Fuel rail dirty. 
Apr 2013

59800 mi
Rear slides sticking causing premature rear brake wear. Brake switch faulty. 
Nov 2016

129300 mi

US $600
Replaced shocks and struts because the ride had gotten very rough. 
Jun 2017

145000 mi

US $400
Oxygen sensor 
Kia Forte in Saudi Arabia
Jun 2010 - Jan 2022
Jun 2011

9300 mi
The brake light sensor wasnt working well. My car has auto start button and its affecting it. Changed by the dealer and voila, its ok now. Very easy. 
Sep 2011

10540 mi
AC compressor was stocked up while running. Starter solenoid burned due to continous try to run the engine(stop start button). Changed the AC compressor,condenser,expansion valve and starter assembly. Battery changed @ 1 1/2 years. 
Jun 2012

16120 mi
change the belt tensioner, weak tension. thats all. 
Oct 2015

38440 mi

﷼85
Carbon brush worn out. 
Kia Forte in British Columbia, Canada
Nov 2009 - Sep 2021
Apr 2011

35340 mi
Strut bearing plate and insulator replaced. 
Jul 2016

157440 mi
struts need to be replaced, just plain worn out 
Jan 2017

151720 mi

C $150
Rear wheel bearing starting to growl, replaced bearing/hub assembly 
Jul 2021

230640 mi

C $300
rear coil springs were broken 
Kia Forte in Quebec, Canada
Dec 2009 - May 2012
Apr 2010

4220 mi
Starter problem. 
May 2010

5620 mi
Transmission not switching gears properly. 
Jan 2011

15500 mi
Sometimes, car does not start well... 
Kia Forte in Pennsylvania, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2018
Apr 2010

6000 mi
Driver's P/W switch cluster (4 window switches) not lit since purchase. Dealer replaced cluster and all is well.  
Oct 2011

18300 mi
Tire pressure problem as indicated by the TPMS. 15" HANKOOK OPTIMO are on the car. Disregarding 1 puncture and replacement, I've had the car in for tire pressure problems at least 6x's in 2 years. Very odd, no? TPMS was indicating low PSI but tires remained inflated at proper levels. The dealer performed unspecified maintenance and all is well. 
Apr 2014

35300 mi
Rear passenger floor would get wet after driving in heavy rain. I was told it was due to a damaged weather liner in the door. It was replaced and all seems fine. 
Nov 2015

48100 mi
My TPMS light is temperamental -- the symbol not the letters. It's on solid -- no blinking -- for days, and then off for days. A constant 32PSI in all four tires. The rep said it was no doubt a faulty sensor, $40+Labor=$140. Not Repaired. 
Dec 2015

48000 mi
TPMS indicator is now on full/all the time. Dealer says it out of warranty and all cost will be on me. I elect not to do anything more until -- at least -- I need new tires. 
Sep 2016

54000 mi

US $350
Seized rear brakes and worn rotors 
Feb 2017

56000 mi
Not to be difficult BUT -- 01/10/17 A VSC for added anti-corrosion material. I called the dealer (Scott KIA, Springfield PA) 2x and I'm told they did not receive the necessary material yet. How do I get them to respond better? THX, Ray 
Kia Forte in Manitoba, Canada
Sep 2010 - Dec 2013
Mar 2011

6200 mi
Strut "pads" to eliminate noise when driving over bumps. 
Jun 2011

8060 mi
Rough shifting. Reprogrammed engine & transmission. 
Apr 2013

21080 mi

C $190
Transmission fluid was contaminated ... transmission flush. 
Kia Forte in Illinois, United States
Jul 2010 - Jul 2011
Mar 2011

10800 mi
The thermostat went out and had to be replaced. The car is 7 months old. Windshield wipers timing is off. They stick when they are used on interval timing. 
Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
May 2011 - Dec 2011
Dec 2011

20460 mi
leaking oil pan; dealer replaced it 
Kia Forte in California, United States
Oct 2012 - Jul 2015
Apr 2014

37300 mi
Engine oil leak 
Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2015 - Jan 2022
Mar 2016

78740 mi

C $4000
The engine developed piston slap And was replaced with a used engine with 31 thousand kilometers on it.  Also the Power steering pump was replaced. And the alternator was replaced at no cost to me. 
Kia Forte in Kentucky, United States
Feb 2011 - Dec 2020
May 2013

36000 mi
Switch to control fan speed did not work correctly, replaced part at no cost. 
Aug 2013

40000 mi
Replaced under warranty a brake switch which was causing the electronic stability system to fail and not function until vehicle was turned off. 
Feb 2017

140000 mi

US $400
Clutch went out on AC compressor. Paid a local mechanic to do the work. 
Aug 2017

156000 mi

US $13
Replaced brake sensor under brake petal. Very easy and quick repair although I had no brake lights due to problem. 
Dec 2020

240000 mi
motor blew up 
Kia Forte in New Jersey, United States
Feb 2012 - Jun 2018
Sep 2015

112000 mi

US $380
Replaced a/c condensor 
Mar 2017

147000 mi

US $35
Replaced headlights 
Sep 2017

156500 mi

US $100
Passenger rear caliper froze 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte 2dr Coupe

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Kia Forte in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2010 - Feb 2013
Jan 2012

17980 mi
When refueling,fuel was overflowing out of the tank when the pump auto-stopped when tank was full. Evap valve was replaced. Warranty repair. 
Jun 2012

21700 mi
When refueling, fuel is overflowing out of the tank when the pump auto-stops. 
Feb 2013

25420 mi
I quit filling it until the pump auto-stopped. I started filling it by the visual level on the gauge so it would never overflow because I stopped it early. The last time it happened was shortly after I took it to the dealer to look at it in October. 
Kia Forte in Texas, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010

4000 mi
Sunroof rattle resolved with adjustment TSB. 
Kia Forte in Pennsylvania, United States
Oct 2010 - May 2013
Oct 2010

550 mi
Gear shift knob was defective. Kia replaced knob under warranty. 
Jan 2011

25000 mi
The right side lever to fold the rear seats down didn't work sometimes. Only a cable that needed adjusting. 
Mar 2012

18000 mi
Headlight had condensation inside housing. Dealer replaced headlight under warranty. 
Kia Forte in New York, United States
May 2010 - Mar 2011
Jun 2010

3000 mi

US $94
Power steering line failed causing loss of power steering and lots of smoke from under hood. 
Sep 2010

6000 mi
Had problem with car slipping in 6th gear. Had it to dealer a couple of times but car never failed while there. Their explaination was that I do not know how to drive a 6 speed. At 5685 miles car finally lost 6th gear. 
Kia Forte in Minnesota, United States
Jun 2011 - Sep 2015
Feb 2014

40900 mi

US $20
Clunk noise over bumps in cold weather from front passenger side strut area. TSB was already performed, problem still occurs. Dealer blamed strut bar and cold air intake; problem existed before adding either. Billed for labor, no repair. 
Sep 2014

45000 mi
Glove box, rear seat, driver's door, passenger's door rattle. Lots of small rattles cropping up. After 44k miles nearly all the screws in doors needed 3/4 turn to tighten back up again. Installed dampening foam in glove box & rear seat. 
Feb 2015

47500 mi
Engine rattle between 2100-2400RPM. Airbag light on. Bottom half of the passenger seat was replaced. Clunking noise from passenger side front strut in cold weather. Strut clunk dust cover TSB was already performed. Dealer determined sway bar link was the cause and replaced the part under warranty. Trunk lid would come unlatched periodically in very cold weather (0°F or so). Dealer replaced trunk latch under warranty. Hood latch was a little loose and jiggling the hood would make it "clack" repeatedly against the latching mechanism. Dealer tried changing the hood adjustment as much as possible but still clacks. Possibly just the design of the latch. Engine rattle when cold and unusual noise while accelerating and warmed up. Dealership tech says "one of the pistons was falling apart". Replaced engine long block and internals under warranty. Gotta love the 100k mile warranty! 
Kia Forte in Wisconsin, United States
Nov 2009 - Sep 2014
Dec 2011

25000 mi
Brake caliper frozen, had to repair myself TWICE because dealership refuses to order the part unless I leave the car with them for 1-2 days. Another dealershiop said the same thing. I'm an ASE Ford mechanic, I know it needs at LEAST this... 
Jan 2012

25400 mi
Caliper frozen, dealership will NOT order a brake caliper despite me knowing the exact problem and being an ASE certified mechanic unless I leave the car overnight and get a rental. 2nd dealership to do this to me. 
Jun 2012

36000 mi

US $400
TPMS sensors ruined by Sam's Club tire installers. Parts $200 labor $200.They tightened them so hard they cracked the valve stems. Had to warranty two tires as well. Had to argue with Sam's for their unwritten $300 max liability "rule". 
Jul 2012

36500 mi
Sway bar is the cause for excessive clunking. Nobody has parts to fix it in the entire country 
Jul 2013

52800 mi

US $380
Yet ANOTHER TPMS sensor failed (5th) Physically fell apart. Dealer didnt stock, took it to F&F Tire, Brookfield WI. $167 tire, $225 for TMPS&labor. Aftermarket part locks out antiskid. $100 more than dealer & doesnt work! KIA WARRANTY? HA! Switch for moonroof fell apart inside (the contacts for the switch). Couldnt close top. No manual closing method visible like in Lincoln, even under trim. Forced switch about for an hour until it made connection and closed. 
Aug 2014

73000 mi
ANOTHER failed TPMS sensor. 
Sep 2014

73000 mi
Sunroof switch never fixed. 
Kia Forte in Quebec, Canada
Dec 2009 - Jun 2011
Jan 2010

2480 mi
There a 'clunk' sound in the suspension. This was the dust cover that was not fixed on the top plate. 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte 2dr Coupe

173-horsepower 2.4L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Washington, United States
Jul 2010 - Jan 2011
Jun 2010

250 mi
Noticed that the seat belt was soaked with water. Dealer replaced door weatherstrip. Dealer performed the repair under warranty. 
Sep 2010

5000 mi
Second trip in for wet seatbelt. Entire seatbelt is soaked all the way into the retractor. Has been at dealer for 4 days now with no explanation available. No corrective action identified yet. Second trip in for wet seatbelt. Entire seatbelt is soaked all the way into the retractor. Has been at dealer for 4 days now with no explanation available. No corrective action identified yet. 
Kia Forte in Texas, United States
Nov 2009 - Apr 2015
Sep 2010

4000 mi
bluetooth mic doesn't work properly, the reprogrammed and it still doesn't, also driver and pass side carpeting is pulling away from middle console and looks like it will continue to do so. 
Apr 2011

6000 mi
check engine light came on, a valve was stuck in the on position due to extended periods of not driving it, was told to let the car warm up for a few mins when i drove it for the first time when i get back into town each week or two 
Apr 2015

43000 mi

US $360
Passenger window went down and stayed. Took in under warranty, they replaced the window motor. next day same thing, took it back and they had to lock the window up. Waiting for master switch part, now out of warranty, won't cover it. 
Kia Forte in Arizona, United States
Oct 2009 - Nov 2011
Jul 2010

14300 mi
AC compressor went out, ordered part and replaced, no charge 
Kia Forte in Missouri, United States
Oct 2010 - Dec 2017
Jan 2017

US $60
The radio completely stopped working. Not a fuse. 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte 2dr Coupe

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

Kia Forte in New York, United States
May 2010 - Jun 2013
Apr 2011

6100 mi
Windshield replaced due to abnormal crack that formed, not from a rock or road debris. Windshield replaced due to abnormal crack that formed, not from a rock or road debris. 
Kia Forte in North Carolina, United States
May 2010 - Mar 2014
Apr 2010

2500 mi
Front left brake line had come loose in the morning, I quickly lost pressure by the afternoon and took to dealer. They re-attached and topped of fluid, no problems since. 

Return to top

2010 Kia Forte 2dr Coupe

156-horsepower 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

Kia Forte in Louisiana, United States
Jul 2010 - Jul 2011
Dec 2010

7000 mi
Horn replaced. 

Return to top

See TrueDelta's information for all Sedans, Coupes, and Hatchbacks.
See TrueDelta's information for all Kia models.

Kia Forte Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently Kia Forte problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.