2012 Kia Forte problems
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.
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Common 2012 Kia Forte problems
The 2012 Kia Forte has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are the details of these issues:
- Engine problems: One of the most common issues with the 2012 Kia Forte is engine-related problems. These issues range from knocking sounds and reduced performance to severe problems like engine seizures.
- Connecting rod bearing failure: Another engine-related problem reported is the failure of the connecting rod bearing. One owner reported rod bearing failure in the 2012 Kia Forte Koup with a 2.4L engine at approximately 93k miles. The engine began rattling while driving, with no prior indication of any issues.
- Cooling system problems: Overheating issues and components like the coolant fan resistor melting were also reported. These problems indicate potential design or manufacturing flaws in the vehicle’s cooling system.
- Lack of water temperature gauge: Some owners have complained about the lack of a water temperature gauge, which is replaced by a light. This can make it difficult to monitor the engine’s temperature and could potentially lead to engine damage if the engine overheats.
- Uncomfortable headrests: The headrests in the 2012 Kia Forte have been reported to be very uncomfortable, which can be a problem for long drives.
- Poor fuel mileage: The 2012 Kia Forte has been reported to have poor fuel mileage, especially when using the cruise control or driving into a headwind.
It is important to note that these issues are based on complaints from owners and may not be representative of all 2012 Kia Forte models. However, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.
Is the Kia Forte 2012 a good car?
Edmunds says
The 2012 Kia Forte is a bit outclassed by newer competitors, but it still has a lot to offer in terms of value and style.
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 will a 2012 Kia Forte last?
Forte engines from 2012 to 2015 are likely to fail before 100,000 miles, costing upward of $5,000 to replace. 2019 models use a new CVT known to fail with just 10,000 miles. Kia Fortes from 2016-2018 are the most reliable and have the best chance to reach 150,000 miles or more.
Is Kia Forte a good reliable car?
Quality and Reliability 87.0/100
The 2024 Kia Forte has a predicted reliability score of 87 out of 100.
2012 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
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Kia Forte vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Kia Forte
The NHTSA has received 266 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Kia Forte. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Kia Forte vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
- VIN: KNAFW5A34C5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated that when her spouse started the vehicle, there was a knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken a Midas where the vehicle remained without being diagnosed. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that undisclosed parts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage approximately 160,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
- VIN: KNAFW5A3XC5
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine keeps turning off when driving at 65 mph it also jerks accelerate by itself loosen power it occurs occasionally, engine smells burn oil and engine light comes on. Dealer has failed to reproduce failure and now they want to charge me $185 to run a full diagnose this problem started after 8/16/2017 after dealer service
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- VIN: KNAFU4A24C5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: After taking my 2012 Kia Forte EX to the dealership for the fire risk recall (recall number 23V652), the dealership replaced fuses as part of the recall. Despite this, major safety issues persisted: 1. Brake fluid leak – The leak was not resolved after the recall repair, and my brake pedal continues to go all the way to the floor, creating a critical safety hazard. 2. Brake warning light – The brake warning light remains on, indicating ongoing brake system issues. 3. Traction control warning light – A squiggly line symbol appeared, suggesting further malfunctions related to the vehicle’s stability control system. 4. Burning smell – Despite the dealership’s claim that the recall repair was completed, I still detect a burning smell from the vehicle, raising serious concerns about unresolved fire risks. When I contacted Kia Customer Care at +1-800-333-4542, I was informed that the brake issues and fluid leak were “unrelated to the recall,” and I was told that I would have to pay out-of-pocket for towing, diagnostics, and repairs—exactly as the dealership had also insisted. This response has left me in a vulnerable position, both financially and in terms of vehicle safety, as I am unable to cover these unexpected costs on my own. Additionally, I was forced to drive my car home with the brake pedal going to the floor, endangering my life and the safety of others on the road. The dealership delayed addressing these serious issues, rushed the repair, and failed to fully assess the depth of the recall symptoms. Their negligence, coupled with Kia’s refusal to take responsibility, has exacerbated the situation. Given the financial strain and the unsafe condition of my vehicle, I urgently request a loaner car until all issues related to the recall are thoroughly addressed, whether Kia wants to take responsibility for these problems or not. The vehicle is simply not safe to drive in its current state, and I should not be expected to bear the financial burden of fixing what appe
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-11
- VIN: KNAFT4A22C5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Over the past 4 years I’ve had ongoing issues with the air in the car where it won’t blow cold air & my defroster will not work and I’ve gotten it fixed still the same issue. Along with the break lights after many attempts to replace them they still don’t come on but sometimes it will. Many problems with the engine I also here ticking noises as well as other sounds but can’t find the issue as well with the engine rpm going to 2 while I’m on the breaks or in park
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- VIN: KNAFU5A22C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,600. Parts distribution disconnect.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 while driving 35 MPH, there was an abnormal banging and clicking sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted several times. 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 failure. The failure mileage was approximately 66,520. The VIN was not available.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-01
- VIN: KNAFU4A27C5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The car shut off (engine died) when I was driving and it wouldnt restart. The car was in perfect working condition, low miles & well taken care of, no lights on the dash or anything. I had it towed to 2 different mechanics (first was private, 2nd was a Kia dealership) - they both told me I needed a new engine or I needed part of the engine fixed and told me it didn't fall under any of the recalls. From what I've read I feel like it is a manufacturer's defect due to all of the recalls on this model/engine.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-29
- VIN: KNAFT4A22C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-07
- VIN: KNAFU4A28C5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: See attached document for complaint
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: KNAFT4A22C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-08
- VIN: KNAFU5A23C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, there was a burning plastic odor coming through the dashboard vents. The contact stopped the vehicle and opened the hood and became aware there was white smoke coming from under the right side of the engine compartment. The contact stated that the smoke dissipated; however, the failure had become a recurring failure. The failure mileage was approximately 173,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-05
- VIN: KNAFT4A28C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 while driving approximately 35 MPH, there was a rattling sound coming from the front end. After pulling into a driveway and turning off the vehicle, the contact looked at the belt and noticed it was still running and releasing a slight smoke. The contact stated that it took an extended amount of time for the belts to stop moving. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic at the time of failure however, the mechanic was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 130,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-05
- VIN: KNAFU6A2XC5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The engine started knocking just like all the other fortes and theta engines that blew up or gained the same knocking metal to metal noise. I have since found metal shavings in the oil which tells me that my engine is on its way out the door just like the rest that had this same problem. My engine needs to be recalled and replaced alongside the rest! Kia needs to own up to there engineering mistakes and install a new engine. My car should not be ignored on that recall seeing as it has the same engine as all the other fortes that were given new replacement engines. I refuse to be ignored on this matter and will not put forth my own money to fix something Kia is liable for. Kia is putting my life and others lives in danger. When will they take actions and responsibility for the rest of the Kia’s out there with the same engine symptom. I also haven’t got a recall for a knock sensor upgrade. I refuse to be without a vehicle because of Kia’s terrible engineering and poor production and assembly of these cars. I should not be experiencing an engine rod knock at 100k miles that has only become louder with time. I will be presenting the car to Kia for other recalls to be done and will be complaining about the other issues. Thousands of people have had to pay out of pocket to get a new motor. That’s on Kia to make things right with there customers for selling them a faulty product.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: KNAFU4A29C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the O2 sensor had failed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The dealer had not been contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 130,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: KNAFU4A29C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-27
- VIN: KNAFW6A32C5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: This is in regards to: Manufacturer Recall Number SC284TD NHTSA Recall Number 23V652 This recall is deemed a serious fire risk to my Kia Forte Koup 2012. There has been no updates on any sign of when the remedy will become available. This is a serious problem for me. I need a remedy part to be supplied and become available so I can fix my car in a timely manner so I can drive my car knowing I will be safe and to those around me.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: KNAFW4A35C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-15
- VIN: KNAFU4A23C5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: In 2003 I purchased a KIA minivan and couldn't promote the company enough. In 2012 I bought a KIA Sportage and Forte. In 2023 KIA issued a recall on all cars having a key start ignition to update them with some software to prevent the cars from being stolen. I called KIA corporate after notification and they sent me a club for my forte as an interim fix until the software could be updated. Later on checking with the dealership I was told not only do they not have the software fix yet that my VIN number was not on the list, KIA corporate did not hesitate to provide me with a club which I use until today because Kia has failed to provide a fix and even if they did my vehicle seems to be exempt even though it is of the model year affected and a key start. KIA RECOMMENDATION WAS TO HAVE OWNERS TO PARK THEIR CAR IN THE GARAGE. On top of that another recall, interim notice. dated November 14th, 2023 warns of potential fire hazard from the Hydraulic electrical control unit (HECU) even while the vehicle is parked. KIA's recommendation is to PARKYOUR CAR OUTDOORS AND AWAY FROM OTHER VEHICLES AND STRUCTURES IN THE MEANTIME. So now you have it, I have a car which can be stolen easily TO BE PARKED IN THE GARAGE which might catch fire so IT IS TO BE PARKED OUTSIDE. Please, broadcast this message to people potentially wanting to purchase a KIA vehicle. How many other KIA owners are in the same boat with me?
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-02
- VIN: KNAFU4A23C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to exceed 15 MPH. The ABS and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 119,000.
POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
- VIN: KNAFU4A23C5
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in reverse, the vehicle seized. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, and it was stated that an unknown part was disconnected near the gear shift. The contact was unsure what part needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the display screen had seized. The contact also replaced the rear brake lights after being notified that the brake lights were inoperable. The contact stated that the bulbs were replaced and immediately fractured. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The failure mileage was 119,000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: KNAFU4A28C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-15
- VIN: KNAFU5A25C5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Hello My complaint is why is it taking KIA so long on the HECU electrical short issue. According to your website this all started at the end of Sept. We got a recall notice on dated Nov 14. When I call and visit the Kia dealership they are on hold waiting for updates from corporate I guess. Same thing when I e-mail KIA Customer care. See response from Kia below. ========================================================== We are following up regarding your web submission for recall remedy status for repairs to begin. We apologize to hear of the concern and appreciate the opportunity to assist with this matter. Unfortunately we do not have an eta for the remedy however once made available an second notice will be sent to you. ============================================================ Their work around is to park the car outside. Since their previous recall was for the ease of stealing the car AND it's getting very cold here in Minnesota that is not a good option. Given the fact that the car could catch on fire and possibly burn a house down or kill someone this needs a higher priority. Thankyou for your time. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-14
- VIN: KNAFU4A29C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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 while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the taillights and brake lights were inoperable due to an electrical short. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-30
- VIN: KNAFU4A28C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact's daughter owns a 2012 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 MIL warning light was illuminated. 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 made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-11
- VIN: KNAFU4A29C5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 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.
2012 Kia Forte recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2012 Kia Forte.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia dealers will update the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software, free of charge. The recall began January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Forte and Forte Koup vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released. This will allow the brake lights to remain illuminated continuously. It can also allow the shift lever to be moved without depressing the brake pedal, or activate the engine management brake pedal override feature.
- Consequence: If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 30, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC158.
Negative 2012 Kia Forte car reviews
Positive 2012 Kia Forte car reviews
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This car is a high-quality, problem-free compact car with a peppy engine and surprising acceleration. The dashboard and controls are simple and easy to use, with no annoying design features. While the remote start feature doesn't function properly all of the time, it is a minor issue that I haven't bothered to take in for repair since it is out of warranty and I don't use the feature often.
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This car is really tough! I wasn't paying as much attention as I should have been and almost rear-ended a truck. I jerked the wheel at around 40 mph, skidded sideways for about 50 ft, hit a curb, and only ended up with a small bit of rim rash. It still drives fine and is still in alignment. The mileage isn't quite what was advertised, but using medium grade fuel does make a notable difference in both power and efficiency. It's also pretty peppy. There's plenty of room inside, even for someone like me who's almost 6'' and not skinny. The ride is smooth as butter, although the stock tires aren't very grippy. I've put 35,000 miles on it and haven't had any issues, just regular tune-ups.
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This is the only new car I've ever bought and it's still running strong at 300k km. The engine was replaced under a factory recall at 187k, which is a testament to their excellent customer support. Aside from the engine change, it has only needed front and rear calipers replaced three times. All original wheel bearings, exhaust, and front end are still in good condition. All controls, including the AC, still work perfectly. Despite living in a heavy salt area near the ocean, there is no rust whatsoever. If you're considering buying one, I highly recommend it. It's now 11 years old, so it should be affordable.
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I rented a Forte and was amazed to find out that it can get up to 50-55 MPG on the highway if you keep your speed at or below 50 mph, keep the RPM at a low 1,500 mark, turn off the A/C, turn on the cruise control, and keep the windows closed. When driving in the city, make sure to accelerate the Forte very carefully, not letting it run higher than 1,500 RPM for each and all transmission gears, even if other drivers behind you find you too slow. For downhill driving, shift to neutral as much as possible to receive up to 100 MPG, but make sure to shift back to drive if your speed goes below 50 mph. It's easy for anyone to do it. Have a safe and happy trip!
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I chose this car because of the fold-down seats and the great interest rate. As someone who enjoys camping and traveling, the fold-down seats were essential for me, as I sometimes car camp. I can comfortably lay down in the back area for a cat nap during a long trip or to get a good night's sleep. Although I am trading it in for a four-wheel drive, this car performed pretty decently on forest roads for what it is. It also rides very nicely. I borrowed a Chevy car of the same size for a week, and when I got my Forte back, it felt like driving butter! Additionally, it has been very reliable, with 20k miles and not a single engine problem at all!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Kia Forte problems:
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2012 Kia Forte Problems | Kelley Blue Book
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Common 2012 Kia Forte Transmission Problems - Q&A
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Other years of Kia Forte
Are you having problems with your 2012 Kia Forte?
Donavon Klocko 2024-10-11
I bought my car brand new in December and took it off the lot with only 33 miles. Although it was slow, it was still fun to drive and definitely caught a lot of looks. Unfortunately, last week while driving home from buying bread, it went up in flames in mere minutes. It's currently under investigation with Kia, but I wanted to share my experience to raise awareness. If I had children in the back or was disabled or slow-moving, there could have been serious injuries. Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Cristobal D'Amore 2024-08-12
This is a comfy little car that you can trust on long trips. However, the interior design is basic and there are a bunch of rattles here and there. Additionally, the engine makes weird noises sometimes and the clutch started feeling weird 10 minutes after I left the dealer.
Rodrigo Huel 2024-08-11
My car has been experiencing intermittent issues since it was one year old, such as jerking, lurching, and feeling like it is going to stall. Despite repeated visits to the dealer and complaints to Kia corporate, no solution has been provided. However, I am confident that the issue will be resolved soon, as I have faith in the expertise of the professionals involved. It is important to note that I am not alone in experiencing these issues, as there are many others on forums who have reported similar problems.