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).

Is 2019 a good year for the Forte?

Across the 6 Forte model years we track, complaint volume runs from 1 (2009) to 601 (2013). With 145 complaints, the 2019 Forte sits belowthe model's median of 232.

These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.

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…

  • 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.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Forte. See the full Forte owner picture and every model year.

Typical used price

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

Other Forte model years

Compare every Forte year side by side to see how 2019 ranks against the rest.

Compare the Forte against its rivals