Is the Kia Forte Reliable?
2010–2026 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Kia Forte? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Open NHTSA Investigation
hyundai and kia abs module fires
Component: service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/module
⚠ Historically, 3% of AQ investigations became recalls.
An open investigation is NHTSA reviewing a potential defect — the earliest warning a recall may be coming. It is not a defect finding. See all vehicles under investigation →
Kia Forte Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2025 | — | — | — | — | Not enough data | |
| 2024 | 0 | 25 | 1 | — | 99 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 1 | 51 | 5 | — | 95 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 0 | 20 | 3 | — | 99 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 1 | 45 | 6 | — | 96 | Excellent |
| 2020 | 0 | 52 | 3 | — | 97 | Excellent |
| 2019 | 1 | 126 | 7 | — | 79 | Good |
| 2018 | 0 | 81 | 11 | — | 87 | Excellent |
| 2017 | 0 | 222 | 29 | 4 | 74 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Forte Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Forte scores 17 points above the average sedan — a strong result.
Known Kia Forte Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 622 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kia Forte reliable?+
The Kia Forte scores 89/100 on our reliability index — rated "Excellent." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 3 recall campaigns and 622 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Forte is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2024 Forte achieved the highest reliability score of 99/100 with 0 recalls and 25 complaints.
How many miles does a Forte last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Kia Forte owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Forte will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Kia Forte Research
Check a Specific Kia Forte VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
Run a Free VIN Report →