Summary
The KIA Forte has 24 recalls spanning 2010 through 2023, with the most serious being two separate structural defects on 2023 models where the front left steering knuckle can crack and cause sudden loss of steering control, and the right front lower control arm can fail and produce the same result.
The 2023 model year carries several manufacturing-quality issues. The steering knuckle and control arm defects each describe structural failures that can rob the driver of steering without warning. Separately, a loose bolt on the 2021 model's lower steering column universal joint can work free and cause the same sudden loss of steering.
On the 2019 model, the left front axle driveshaft can break due to inadequate heat treatment, cutting power to the wheels abruptly and, if the car is parked without the parking brake engaged, allowing it to roll away. That year also has a compliance issue: LED-equipped vehicles may have had the low-beam headlights aimed incorrectly at the factory, reducing forward visibility at night.
The 2018 model has an oil pump contamination problem where metal particles that pass through the oil filter can accumulate in the pump, lower oil pressure, accelerate engine wear, and potentially cause a sudden loss of power. The 2017-2018 models with the 2.0L engine share a related concern where foreign particles sticking inside the oil pump can cause it to fail and stall the engine.
On 2014 models, brake lines routed under the vehicle can corrode and leak fluid, reducing braking force and extending stopping distances. An earlier inspection campaign for this issue was not always completed correctly, so a follow-up inspection was required. That same year also has a cooling fan resistor that can overheat and melt, raising the risk of a fire.
Going back to 2013, front seatbelt retractor retaining plates were assembled with screws that may not have been tightened properly; in a crash, the plate can break apart and send pieces toward the occupants.
The 2012-2014 model years share a brake pedal stopper pad that can deteriorate over time, leaving the brake lights on continuously and masking actual braking signals to drivers behind.
On 2011 models with automatic transmissions, a transmission fluid cooler hose can leak, causing erratic shifting and eventually preventing the transmission from moving the vehicle.
The 2010-2013 model years have a recall covering the airbag control module, which can short circuit in a crash and prevent front airbags and seatbelt pretensioners from deploying when needed. The earliest production year, 2010, has a related but distinct issue where internal circuit damage in the airbag control unit can also disable airbag and pretensioner deployment.
