2019 Kia Forte: common problems and reliability

The 2019 Kia Forte has 145 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and engine. Owners most often flag engine failure (oil consumption, piston ring issues, catastrophic failure) — particularly noted in pre-2019 gdi engines and some theta ii engines; some reports of replacement under warranty. frequency: recurrent.

Safety record for the 2019 model year

145
Owner complaints
2
Recalls
11
Crash reports
4
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2019 Kia Forte vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

power train
47
engine
34
electrical system
21
forward collision avoidance
17
exterior lighting
14

Recalls affecting the 2019 Forte

exterior lighting:headlights

Campaign 18V771000

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Kia Forte vehicles equipped with LED headlights. The headlights may not have been manufactured with the correct low beam aiming. As such, these vehicles fail to comply w…

power train:axle assembly:axle shaft

Campaign 20V459000

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Forte vehicles. The left front axle driveshaft may not have been heat-treated, which can cause it to break.

What owners say across generations

Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year and powertrain. The Forte is widely regarded as a solid value proposition, offering good features, technology, and interior space for the money, particularly when purchased new or lightly used with the rem

  • Engine failure (oil consumption, piston ring issues, catastrophic failure) — particularly noted in pre-2019 GDI engines and some Theta II engines; some reports of replacement under warranty. Frequency: recurrent.
  • CVT/IVT transmission reliability concerns — noted for premature failure, especially in belt-driven units from 2019 to mid-2021; design updated to chain-driven in 2021+ models. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Long-term build quality and durability — older models (e.g., 2010-2014) reported with issues like rusted brake lines, exhaust perforation, and interior rattles developing sooner than competitors like Toyota. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Rapid depreciation — significant loss in resale value, especially with higher mileage; noted as being "worth almost nothing" with 115,000 miles compared to competitors. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Interior water leaks — isolated reports of bad seals leading to water seepage into the cabin, causing odors. Frequency: isolated.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Forte.

Typical used price

Used Forte listings typically run $12,994–$19,170 across 2013 to 2024 model years.

Other Forte model years

2021 Forte2017 Forte2013 Forte2010 Forte
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