2011 Kia Forte problems

kia logo

The Kia Forte, known as the K3 in Asia, the Forte K3 or Shuma in China and Cerato in South America, Australia, New Zealand and Russia, is a compact car manufactured by South Korean automaker Kia since mid-2008, replacing the Kia Spectra. It is available in two-door coupe, four-door sedan, five-door hatchback variants. It is not available in Europe, where the similar sized Kia Ceed is offered (except for Russia and Ukraine, where the Ceed and the Forte are both available).

In some markets, such as Costa Rica, Australia and Brazil, the Forte is marketed as Kia Cerato, replacing its predecessor of the same name. In Colombia and Singapore, the name Cerato Forte was used for the second generation, while Naza Automotive Manufacturing of Malaysia has assembled the vehicle since 2009, selling it there under the name Naza Forte.

First generation (TD; 2008)

The first generation Forte was introduced in 2008. In North America, the Forte replaced the Kia Spectra, while the Forte retained the Cerato name in numerous markets. It shares the same platform as the Hyundai Avante/Elantra (HD), though employing a torsion-beam rear suspension in place of the Elantra's multilink design. Kia has stated that the Forte was specifically designed to target younger buyers attracted to sharper auto designs.

Succeeding the first generation Cerato or second generation Spectra, several elements of the interior and suspension were changed. The car received a wider (4 cm) and longer (3 cm) body, a longer (4 cm) wheelbase and a wider (7 cm) gauge. However, ground clearance was reduced by a centimeter, thereby reducing the height by a centimeter. At the same time, the design of the rear suspension was simplified, which instead of independent multilink thrust became semi-dependent double-lever, with an elastic beam, which made it more reliable and easy to repair and maintain.

Three body styles, which are compact 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback, and a new 2-door coupe body style was introduced.

2011 Kia Forte

Social links

Common 2011 Kia Forte problems

The Kia Forte, introduced in the North American market for the 2009 model year, has been a top-seller for the Kia brand. It is a five-passenger compact car equipped with a standard four-cylinder engine that can seat five passengers. However, specific features and trim levels can vary from one model year to the next.

One of the most common problems reported for the Kia Forte, according to NHTSA complaints and Vehicle History reviews, is engine knocking sounds. This issue has been reported for the 2010 Kia Forte, with several complaints about strange "knocking" noises coming from the engine while it is running. In some cases, the engine has stalled out, and metal shavings were found in the engine, requiring a $6,000 replacement.

Another common problem reported for the Kia Forte is overheating exterior lights/bulbs. This issue has been reported for the 2011 Kia Forte, with several complaints about the exterior lights randomly malfunctioning for no apparent reason.

Airbag light issues have also been reported for the Kia Forte. This issue has been reported for the 2017 Kia Forte, with several complaints about the airbag warning light remaining illuminated constantly. A concerning number of crashes where the airbags failed to deploy have been recorded in relation to this complaint, with multiple counts of injuries.

Rough engine operation is another common problem reported for the Kia Forte. This issue has been reported for the 2017 Kia Forte, with several complaints about the engine shaking while the vehicle is in motion, and in some cases, the engine then stalls. The dealer was not able to diagnose or repair the issue.

In conclusion, while the Kia Forte may be a reliable vehicle, some of its model years have their fair share of problems. It is essential to be aware of these common problems before purchasing a pre-owned model to ensure a safe and reliable driving experience.

2011 Kia Forte engine

What problems does a 2011 Kia Forte have?

Reports of transmission slipping and failure: The 2011 Kia Forte has been known to have transmission problems, including slipping and even complete failure. Engine stalling due to faulty fuel pump connector and worn spark plugs: The Kia Forte's engine can stall due to a faulty fuel pump connector or worn spark plugs.

Is a 2011 Kia Forte a good car?

This revised version of the Kia Forte is a good notch below the best in this class. On the plus side, the Forte handles responsively and comes with standard electronic stability control. Further, the interior feels airy, controls are simple and rear-seat space is quite good. Fuel economy is competitive as well.

What is the most common problem with the Kia Forte?

With proper maintenance and good driving habits, you'll have no trouble getting this car to over 200,000 miles. There are, however, some issues surrounding the Forte across various model years. Some of these include defective speakers, faulty ignition coils, lighting issues, and leaky interiors, among others.

How many miles can a 2011 Kia Forte last?

According to various reputable auto sources, like the Vehicle History website, a Kia Forte can last about 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. If you drive over 14,250 miles per year, like the average American driver, the Forte will provide you with 10-13 years of service before needing any major repairs.

2011 Kia Forte car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Kia Forte problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Engine problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Power train problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Kia Forte vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2011 Kia Forte

The NHTSA has received 150 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Kia Forte. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2011 Kia Forte vehicles.

2024-10-18

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
  • VIN: KNAFT4A25B5
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Recalls
2024-07-05

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-28
  • VIN: KNAFU6A21B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that there was an abnormal burning wiring odor inside the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 28,800. Parts distribution disconnect.
2024-06-24

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
  • VIN: KNAFW6A39B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that the parts were available, an appointment was made. The contact stated when she arrived for the appointment, after waiting for 3 hours, the dealer made her aware that the part was not available and that the system was down. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact attempted to make the manufacturer aware of the issue, however; the contact only had the option to hear an automated recording. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
2024-06-14

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
  • VIN: KNAFU4A2XB5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the check engine, ABS, and Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) warning lights were illuminated. There was a burning odor emitting from underneath the hood near the engine compartment. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 200,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
2024-06-01

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-29
  • VIN: KNAFU4A23B5
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Engine was replaced 97218 miles - under warranty - now the second engine needs to be replaced with 106607 miles - there is a limited warranty of 20 years /200000 miles - isn't the second engine still under warranty two engines and both have been under 200000 miles isn't the second engine covered under the warranty??
2024-04-25

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-23
  • VIN: KNAFU4A21B5
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: tHEY SAID MY CAR MAY CATCH ON FIRE DUE A FUSE. tHIS HAS BEEN SINCE sEP AND IT IT IS NOW ALMOST mAY. tHIS COULD FIRE UP MY CAR AT ANY TIME AND COULD BE VERY DANGEROUS. aLSO HAVE TO PARK CAR OUTSIDE SO WIND RAIN AND BIRD POOP HAS TAKE A TOLL ON MY CAR. wHAT IS THE BIG PROBLEM WITH MAKING ONE FUSE. tHANKS
2024-04-25

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-25
  • VIN: KNAFU5A29B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-04-15

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
  • VIN: KNAFU5A27B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-04-04

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-04
  • VIN: KNAFW6A34B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-03-11

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
  • VIN: KNAFU5A22B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-03-05

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-05
  • VIN: KNAFT4A21B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-02-15

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: KNAFU4A2XB5
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
  • Summary: I was driving and the car caught on fire.
2024-02-02

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-02
  • VIN: KNAFW6A35B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-01-30

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
  • VIN: KNAFU4A2XB5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-01-10

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-10
  • VIN: KNAFU4A28B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-01-09

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-09
  • VIN: KNAFU4A2XB5
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE HYDRALUIC ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT MAY SHORT CIRCUIT AND CAUSE A FIRE WHILE DRIVING OR PARKED AND THIS RECALL HAS BEEN OPEN FOR MONTHS AND NOT FIXED. RECALL HAS BEEN OPEN SINCE SEPTEMBER OF 2023.
2023-11-27

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-20
  • VIN: KNAFU5A27B5
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle and reversing, the gear shifter became stuck in reverse(R). There was no warning light illuminated. An independent mechanic assisted the contact in shifting the gear shifter linkages into park(P) manually. The independent mechanic informed the contact that the gear shifter linkages might be damaged; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure and advised the contact to take the vehicle to their location for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,630.
2023-11-27

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-06
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: KNAFU6A2XB5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owned a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact stated that he had parked the vehicle and upon walking towards the vehicle, he noticed that the front end of the vehicle had caught on fire. The origin of the fire was unknown. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with the assistance of the fire department. A fire department report and a police report were filed. There was no injury sustained. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard, where it was totaled. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) that he related to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was unknown.
2023-11-24

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
  • VIN: KNAFU4A20B5
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that there was a burning odor entering the cabin of the vehicle. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-11-22

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-08-28
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: KNAFU5A25B5
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: On 8/28/2022 my 2011 Kia Forte's engine caught on fire and it caused damage to my entire garage along with my personal belongings. I had contacted Kia multiple times and was put on hold for over an hour at a time and hung up on multiple times until a few weeks after the fire I finally got a hold of them and they put in a "work order". After following up with them a week later I come to find out that the work order was put in for a car pare (the engine in the car was burnt to crisp). I finally had someone help and a representative from Kia came out afterwards they conveyed that after "their investigation" that "evidence shows fire and heat attacking vehicle from outside and moving into the engine compartment". Which is completely false per fire department who where first on the scene they determined the fire started in the engine compartment of the vehicle". This was very disappointing Kia took no responsibility for this. Now I receive a recall notice dated November 14th, 2023 stating that "the Hydraulic electronic control unit may experience an electrical short circuit, which can result in an engine compartment fire while driving or parked. This is exactly what happened to my car at the time of the incident so now they are admitting they were at fault.
2023-10-02

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-30
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: KNAFU4A29B5
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: Light in trunk exploded and melted. This was the original light that came with the car. Thankfully the trunk was empty and it did not catch fire.
2023-07-30

POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-26
  • VIN: KNAFW6A32B5
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: No incident yet, but I see other Kia's that have been recalled for powertrain system and air bag issues. The power train issue comes up when I get my engine light checked and the airbag light is on. Also, a constant problem is the break switch, the push button car won't start sometimes and the steering wheel doesnt lock because immobilizer Is a problem and other Kia's have been recalled but not mine, instead they sent me a wheel car lock. I see online so many people complaining about the push button car not starting like mine which may be due to the immobilizer issue and theft. It is annoying to see other vehicle recalled but not mine.
2023-07-07

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-12-01
  • VIN: KNAFU4A20B5
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: My daughters Kia Forte, started making a ticking noise. Them more she has driven the car, the worse the ticking has become. Looking on line to see what the problem may be, it appears that this is a very well known issues with Kia’s. Also reading on your sight there has been MANY complaints for the very same thing. If Kia has been made aware of the issue and did nothing about it. I feel that is negligible for them. My daughter travels out of state for college. I would hate for her to break down on the side of the road. Our mechanic said that we should use a certain type of oil of her car, her oil changes are done every 3,000 miles. They now coast us 70.00 each time we have to change the oil. I hope that you will investigate this issue with as many complaints that have been registered against Kia.
2023-05-31

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
  • VIN: KNAFU4A23B5
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: I have a 2011 Kia forte had 130,000 plus miles when I bought it. I've had the car for 1 year first 2 months motor sound it 100% 3rd month I started to hear a knocking sound coming from motor I took it to kia dealer today for recall service so I asked them if they could here the knocking sound they told me that the sound was normal. I told them that when I got the car it wasn't making this knocking sound and getting louder each month. They changed the conversation and told me that i was there for them to work on a recall matter for my car. i don't know what it could be maybe the engine pistons idk but I have read a lot of people with this problem as well car has 145,500 miles now I have the oil and oil filter changed every 5,000 miles. I really think that this needs to be investigated asap as this could cost an accident if car brakes down.
2023-02-19

SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-02-15
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: KNAFW6A31B5
  • Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
  • Summary: The car had a slow ticking noise that was very faint in the front for about 20 minutes 20 minutes later the noise continue to get louder about 45 minutes later six gear was lost in the car in about an hour and a half later the engine failed and the car Came to a failure lock down procedure all lights on the front door shut on steering wheel locked on friendship Road exit 8 and the vehicle had to be towed to a shop we’re now it was put on a lift and there is a hole in the bottom of the engine , And the transmission is not in tact

2011 Kia Forte recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2011 Kia Forte.

2023-09-25
  • Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
  • Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
  • Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
2018-06-01
  • Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
  • Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
  • Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia Forte, Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Kia Optima and 2011-2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners from deploying.
  • Consequence: If the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
  • Remedy: Kia will notify owners. For model year 2011 Sedona vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to verify the ACU part number and, if necessary, install an extension wire harness kit between the ACU Connector and the Vehicle Harness Connector. For all other affected vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to install the extension wire harness kit. The recall began September 28, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC165.
2016-02-05
  • Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES
  • Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2011 Forte vehicles manufactured August 27, 2010, to November 11, 2010. The affected vehicles have a transmission fluid cooler hose that may have been improperly manufactured, resulting in a transmission fluid leak.
  • Consequence: If enough transmission fluid leaks out, the transmission may not function properly and the vehicle may stop moving, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transmission cooler hose, free of charge. The recall began March 30, 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC129.

Negative 2011 Kia Forte car reviews

  1. Korbin Howell 2024-10-15

    I have been driving my Kia Forte 5 for a month now and I must say, I am impressed with its features and driving experience. Although I did not read any reviews before purchasing the car, I am glad I took the chance. The car is fun to drive and comes with great standard features. While the car may not have the best gas mileage, it is still a great choice for those who value performance. Overall, I am confident in my decision to purchase the Kia Forte 5 and would recommend it to others.

  2. Reid Rohan 2024-01-16

    I'm so glad to hear that you recently purchased an SX model with all the options including NAV! It's great to hear that everything has been going well so far, even if there have been a few rattles. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

Positive 2011 Kia Forte car reviews

  1. Lawson Hegmann 2024-11-25

    It's great to hear that your daughter enjoyed driving the Forte to college when it was new, and that you found it to be a nice driving car for both city and interstate commutes. The acceleration and automatic six speed sound impressive, and it's fantastic that you were still getting 33 mpg when you sold it in June of 2020. It's clear that the Forte was a very solid car, even at 135k when sold.

  2. Alfredo Hills 2024-11-19

    Hi there! It seems like you've had a bit of a bumpy ride.

  3. Ahmed Ernser 2024-10-11

    I'm so glad to hear that you were able to get a great deal on a 2010 Forte Koup SX with the features you wanted! It sounds like you're really enjoying the car, despite some of the challenges you've faced on Northeastern PA roads. I can definitely understand how the stiff ride and low-profile tires can make for a bumpy ride. However, it's great to hear that the car handles well and has fun acceleration. Thanks for sharing the link to the throttle mod guide - I'm sure it will be helpful for other Forte owners!

  4. Gordon Welch 2024-09-28

    It's really important to have quiet tires. I recently bought Michelin Defender tires and they're great - really quiet! One thing to note is that my car doesn't have an engine temperature gauge, only an idiot light. Also, the electronic stability control (ESC) tends to come on after going over a bumpy road, but it's easy to override.

  5. Tyreek Gerhold 2024-09-18

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car since I got it in July. It's been a great ride so far with 7300 miles on it. The car is fully loaded with Nav, sunroof, leather, Sirius radio, rear camera, and more. The interior is really comfortable and it's a smooth drive on the highway. I was surprised to find that the handling isn't any better than the Jetta I also tested, but it's still good. The 4-cylinder, non-turbo engine has great acceleration and the 2.5 engine really makes a difference. However, I have noticed that the suspension could be better and the gas mileage isn't the best. I mostly drive on the highway and I'm only getting 26-28 mpg. Also, I feel every bump, big or small, in this car. Overall, it's a great value for the money and I think it will be a good car to hand down to the kids. Although, I'm not sure if I would purchase another one. Thanks for listening!

Leave your review of 2011 Kia Forte

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2011 Kia Forte problems:

Bought a 2011 Kia Forte Koup EX and its got some issues... | Kia ...
Bought a 2011 Kia Forte Koup EX and its got some issues... | Kia ...
https://www.forteforums.com/threads/bought-a-2011-kia-forte-koup-ex-and-its-got-some-issues.105040/

Oct 16, 2019 ... very common in these cars ...I can only say one thing....clean the throttle body especially if they are getting up in miles...CLEAN THE THROTTLE ...

2011 Kia Forte Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
2011 Kia Forte Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/kia/forte/2011

Jan 9, 2023 ... Overall rating: 8/10 – The 2011 Kia Forte is a reliable and safe car that offers great value, with a good fuel economy and attractive exterior ...

Forte Koup common issues and solutions | Kia Forte Forum
Forte Koup common issues and solutions | Kia Forte Forum
https://www.forteforums.com/threads/forte-koup-common-issues-and-solutions.8935/

Oct 27, 2011 ... This thread is to talk about common issues and solutions for the Forte Koup. For example, motor, exhaust, suspension, intake, and brake ...

A Full Rundown Of The Most Common Kia Forte Problems ...
A Full Rundown Of The Most Common Kia Forte Problems ...
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/articles/a-full-rundown-of-the-most-common-kia-forte-problems

Jan 22, 2021 ... Engine knocking sounds; Overheating exterior lights/bulbs; Airbag light issues; Rough engine operation. red 2021 Kia Forte From Front-Passenger ...

2011 Kia Forte Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2011 Kia Forte Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/kia/forte/2011/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2011 Kia Forte? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

Other years of Kia Forte

kia forte 2012 photo
Forte 2012
Kia

266

4

18

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia forte 2013 photo
Forte 2013
Kia

183

5

23

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia forte 2014 photo
Forte 2014
Kia

394

3

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia forte 2015 photo
Forte 2015
Kia

223

1

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia forte 2016 photo
Forte 2016
Kia

0

1

30

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia forte 2017 photo
Forte 2017
Kia

247

3

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2011 Kia Forte?

Add car complaint
2011 Kia Forte photo