2014 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 2014 Kia Forte problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2014 Kia Forte, several common problems have been reported:
- Exterior Lighting Malfunction: Another prevalent problem is the malfunction of exterior lights. Owners have reported issues with all exterior lights randomly malfunctioning, including flickering, turning off, heating up, and even melting. These malfunctions could potentially lead to safety hazards, such as getting pulled over or fire risks. Immediate repair is recommended to prevent further complications.
- Transmission Problems: The 2014 Kia Forte has been associated with transmission issues, typically occurring around 57,000 miles. Symptoms include an illuminated check engine light, abnormal scraping noises, rough shifting, and debris in transmission fluid. In severe cases, owners have had to stop driving and get their cars towed due to transmission failure. Resolving these problems often involves replacing the entire transmission unit.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2014 Kia Forte highlight significant issues that can impact the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall driving experience. Addressing these concerns promptly and seeking professional assistance for repairs is crucial to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
Is a 2014 Kia Forte a good car?
The spacious, nicely finished interior also wins praise. Braking performance is excellent too. Overall, the Forte is now one of the top-rated cars in the category.
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 2014 Kia Forte last?
As for how long a Kia Forte will last, online forums like Forte Forums, and Vehicle History owner reviews, show the car should reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more before needing major repairs. Driving 12,000 miles per year, that's about 13 to 17 years of service.
What is the brake problem on a 2014 Kia Forte?
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.
2014 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
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2014 Kia Forte vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2014 Kia Forte
The NHTSA has received 394 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2014 Kia Forte. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2014 Kia Forte vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
- VIN: KNAFK4A69E5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact's mother owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving and turning the steering wheel, the steering wheel made an abnormal popping sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the flexible coupling in the MDPS (motor-driven power steering) needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to Kia Campaign Number: 074. The dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact the VIN was not covered under the campaign. The failure mileage was approximately 43,350.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-18
- VIN: KNAFK4A68E5
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: While driving down the road the hood just opened shattering the windshield. Closed the hood back and drove down the road and it did it again.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-06
- VIN: KNAFX4A69E5
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while buckling the driver's side front seat belt buckle, the front driver's seat belt buckle failed to lock securely as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with front driver's side seat belt buckle failure. The contact was informed that the front driver's side seat belt buckle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 198,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: KNAFX5A80E5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel made an abnormal sound and jerked abnormally. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the flexible coupling valves needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall and to Customer Satisfaction Program: CS1604/WTY006. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 11,503.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
- VIN: KNAFX6A83E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate, the RPM increased rapidly, but the vehicle was unable to accelerate above 40 MPH. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 143,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-14
- VIN: KNAFK4A65E5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Steering is popping and clicking most of the time when I turn the steering wheel, mainly when I turn left but definitely seems to be a safety hazard. Not sure if it’s the steering coupler or what but I believe it should be under a recall. Thank you.
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- VIN: KNAFX4A88E5
- Components: TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that in 2021 the engine was replaced under an unknown recall. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was restarted after several attempts on each occasion. The check engine and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was associated with the vehicle not having an oil change. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the oil was changed every 5,000 miles. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 156,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-23
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V705000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) 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, and the vehicle started making an abnormal sound. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle, but the sound persisted prior to the vehicle stalling. The contact stated an independent mechanic diagnosed the vehicle with a piston misfire. The vehicle could not be restarted. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000. The VIN was not provided.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-11
- VIN: KNAFX4A88E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle was losing motive power. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal and the vehicle failed to respond with the engine revving. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact was leaving a local dealer where NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V750000 (Engine) software update was completed. The contact returned to the dealer and was informed that the vehicle should be driven for a total of 600 miles before returning to have the vehicle diagnosed. The contact returned to the residence with the vehicle unrepaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact related the failure to the manufacture software update completed under NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V750000 (Engine). The failure mileage was 92,476.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-11
- VIN: KNAFX4A67E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My vehicle started making a ticking noise and then after driving on the interstate it entered limp mode with the check engine, battery, steering wheel, and oil lights on. I have been up to date on all oil changes and the car is only at 95,000 miles. After taking it to a mechanic he said the issue it with the engine and it needs a full replacement. The car is available for inspection and the problem is very common with Kia’s similar to mine, there is even a recall for the same car the same year mine is just not included for some reason.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- VIN: KNAFK4A68E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she heard an abnormal knocking sound emanating from the engine compartment. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- VIN: KNAFX4A8XE5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Driving to school and the engine started acting weird and took to Good Year mechanic and I received the attached invoice. Kindly refer to the invoice.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- VIN: KNAFX4A60E5
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Seatbelt comes undone I have to hold it or it will unbuckle randomly.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-02
- VIN: KNAFX4A81E5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While turning the steering wheel will pop or click loudly. The issue is hard to control completely as the steering column vibrates. I have been told that I need the steering column coupler replaced. Consulted shops and they want $480 to replace a $10 plastic piece. This is a safety issue as you could loose control of steering.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-07
- VIN: KNAFX4A87E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I took my car to Kia Healy in Newburgh New York for a recall on knock sensor update and ever since my car is not working had to park it.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-30
- VIN: KNAFX4A83E5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Steering wheel is clicking or catching when initiating a turn. Problem is with the steering coupler.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-11
- VIN: KNAFK4A60E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I has replaced 2 coil packs then the engine started clicking
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-16
- VIN: KNAFZ4A87E5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Driving down the highway and check engine light came on and dropped the cars speed down to 30 mph and was stuck on the highway and I called the KIA dealership that I got the car from and they cleared the code on the car and claimed they fixed it just for the car to go back into limp mode and now I’m stuck without a car and the dealership doesn’t want to fix it
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-16
- VIN: KNAFX4A64E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine clicking noticed . Then light came on. Mechanic fixed. Engine light came on coil needed to be replaced a week later. Clicking got louder took to dealer said Engine wasn't getting enough oil that there was none on dipstick (took photo as proof it had oil). No other explanations no other solutions other than replacing Engine. Engine seized up un able to upload estimate bc of website issues
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-29
- VIN: KNAFX4A65E5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Flex coupler went bad - $500 replacement. The Optima was already recalled for this same part. Please recall the Forte lines so that we can be reimbursed for this obvious Kia issue.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-16
- VIN: KNAFX4A83E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving 65 mph and all of sudden the speed got lowered to 45 mph even I was pushing accelerator. Also I heard the engine knocking noise when I pushed accelerator hard. I had to stop and parked nearby church parking lot. I called a mechanic to diagnose, and he said the engine was broken and needed to be replaced with a new engine.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-18
- VIN: KNAFX4A87E5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Clunking sound in steering column. Steering Coupler in Steering motor defect Has failed in my steering column. Dealer refuses to repair under other agreements.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-01
- VIN: KNAFX4A64E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Car died in reverse. Check engine light came on and turned off. Took to mechanic replaced spark plugs. Then 6 days later had another misfire replaced coils. At that a clicking noise was heard. Brought to kia dealership who said knocking come from engine but did not say what. Upon parking car completely died in drive. Engine failed.
SUSPENSION,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
- VIN: KNAFX6A84E5
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE
- Summary: There is an unknown smell (kind of smells like Carbon Monoxide) when cranking up my car. There is this knocking noise that I continue to hear as if something is loose under my car, but when inspected, nothing was loose. It happens when I hit a bump or go over a hump in the road. The unknown smell scares me as this could be potentially hazardous to me and drivers around me. The knocking noise is terrifying making me feel as though my car is going to break down on me at any moment because of something that can’t be detected.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-06
- VIN: KNAFX4A64E5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Just crunk it up and out the blue started knocking no warning no nothing
2014 Kia Forte recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2014 Kia Forte.
- 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: 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.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2014 Kia Forte vehicles manufactured December 5, 2012, to April 17, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the cooling fan resistor may overheat and melt.
- Consequence: If the cooling fan resistor overheats and melts, there is an increased risk of a vehicle fire.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and for vehicles produced from December 5, 2012 to January 27, 2014, dealers will replace the cooling fan resistor and multi-fuse unit. For vehicles produced from January 28, 2014 to April 17, 2014, dealers will replace the multi-fuse unit only. Owners of vehicles with a 1.8L engine will also have the engine control unit software updated. The recall began on February 20, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC113.
Negative 2014 Kia Forte car reviews
Positive 2014 Kia Forte car reviews
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I've been driving my new 2014 Kia Forte for a month now, and it has exceeded all of my expectations. As someone who is 6'8
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I've had the Forte EX w/Premium package since April 2013, and I like it well enough. While it may not be a car that I love, I appreciate its features. Although this model hasn't won my brand loyalty, I still think it's a good car.
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I had a Spectra 5 door and never thought I would enjoy another car as much as I did that one, but I was wrong.This car is awesome, lots of room for the family and lots of room in the back for shopping sprees. It is a quiet, smooth ride.Great radio and the heater warms up fast.Cant imagine ever driving anything but a Kia.You can' t beat the warranty either.I've gotten both of my Kia's from Moritz Kia in Ft Worth, they have treated me so well I will always buy from them.They go above and beyond to please the customer.I wanted to test drive one of their cars but had no ride to get to them, they brought the car to me and I was an hour away.
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I have purchased many cars over the years, and I must say that this one is my absolute favorite! It was a spur of the moment decision, but I am so glad I made it. The salesperson, a lovely blonde woman, was very helpful and made the experience even better. The car itself is a 2014 Forte Koup SX, which I bought brand new in 2016 with only 14 miles on the odometer. It has everything I need and more, including fold-down rear seats, fold-away mirrors, and an outside temperature gauge. The 201 hp turbo engine is fantastic, and it handles like a dream on the highway. I even had the pleasure of passing a semi on a 2-lane Texas highway slightly uphill, at night, in the rain at 120+ mph with ease! It's the perfect car for me and my music-gig gear. I am so happy with my purchase, and I can't believe Kia stopped making the Koup.
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I have always owned Kia's and Hyundai's and have never had any issues, and this car is no exception. Our car is loaded with Bluetooth, satellite radio, rear back up camera, and stereo controls on the steering wheel, making this car a fun and comfortable ride on road trips! We purchased this car for my wife in July of 2014, and it now has 15k miles on it, and we have had no problems at all! I absolutely love it. Now, I am in the market myself for a new car, and after reading the reviews on the 2014 Corolla and 2014 Sentra SR, two of the cars I was considering buying, I realized the serious problems these two cars have with their transmissions and other critical components. So at this point, I am happily going to stick to Kia or Hyundai. The only two issues I have had with my car so far are just minor interior issues. The car door seal seems like it shrunk with the heat (we live in Arizona), and it's coming out of place. The other problem is the passenger electric window switch broke off... both of these issues are nothing compared to problems with the engine!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2014 Kia Forte problems:
Most Common 2014 Kia Forte Problems - GT Automotive
Dec 19, 2022 ... These 2014 Kia Forte engine problems include knocks, oil leaks, complete engine failure, and even engine fires. These issues are known to reveal ...
2014 Kia Forte Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2014 Kia Forte? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Kia Forte Problems Include Oil Leaks, Complete Engine Failure, and ...
Mar 8, 2022 ... While also having engine issues, the 2014 Kia Forte suffers from a faulty cooling fan resister, which may overheat and increase the chances of ...
Kia Forte 2013 - Engine Problems : r/kia
Jan 27, 2023 ... I have the literally exact same problem you do. My wife has a 2014 Forte. Kept making the ticking noise. Rod bearings rattling. Had a friend ...
100k plus miles on 1.8l motor? | Kia Forte Forum
Dec 30, 2021 ... I have a 2014 Forte that I bought new with the 1.8L engine, with 127,300 miles and not one problem with the engine or trans. Changing oil at 5k ...
Other years of Kia Forte
Are you having problems with your 2014 Kia Forte?
Salvatore Mann 2024-11-27
I'm really frustrated with Kia. We were left stranded on the side of the road because our car didn't come with a spare tire. Unfortunately, we had to pay for a tow because I wasn't able to change the blown tire myself. I'm disappointed with this experience and it has made me reconsider buying a Kia in the future. We are planning on selling this car as soon as possible.
Jimmie Pacocha 2024-09-01
This Kia model offers a wide range of luxury features that are sure to impress. While it is a lower price point, it still manages to provide some of the most sought-after features such as a heated steering wheel, cooling seats, dual climate control, steering wheel mode control, and paddle shifters. The car is also very sporty and handles well in snow. However, some customers have reported issues with plastic scratches and paint coming off the steering wheel controls. Additionally, some have experienced engine oil consumption issues and glitches with the back-up camera during snowy weather due to the angle of the back windshield. Overall, this Kia model is a great option for those looking for luxury features at an affordable price point.
Gordon Schiller 2024-07-04
Update: Hello there! I just wanted to share my experience with this car. While it is comfortable, I did find that it consumed a lot of fuel and unfortunately, after a year of use, we had some engine issues that required repairs. Despite our best efforts to maintain it, we ultimately had to sell it at a lower price than we bought it for. I just wanted to give you a heads up in case you were considering purchasing this car. Have a great day!
Regan Runte 2024-04-28
The car has good off-the-line power and the 178 hp is definitely enough for this little car. It gets an awesome 38 mpg on the highway and the electronic folding side mirrors are a nice touch. I recently drove this car from New Jersey to Virginia, which is about a 4-hour drive, and for the most part, the ride felt comfortable. However, anything longer than 4 hours in that seat would be uncomfortable. The steering setting in normal feels evenly weighted, but the comfort steering setting feels way too light and the sport setting feels way too heavy. The UVO system is a helpful tool to keep track of miles and service maintenance. Additionally, the car is somewhat easy to toss into corners. Lastly, I found that the best tires for this car are the Douglas performance all-season tires from Walmart.
Ewald DuBuque 2024-04-06
Hello! I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share my experience with my car. Unfortunately, I had some water damage in the trunk and back seat about 6 months after purchasing it in March of 2016. It was a bit of a challenge to get the dealership to replace the affected pieces due to mold growth, but we were able to work it out. However, I am now experiencing a similar issue, but it seems to be much worse this time. My daughter is highly allergic to mold, which is growing in my trunk and along the back seat. I'm a bit concerned, but I'm sure we can find a solution. The car has a strong odor, but I'm hopeful that we can work together to resolve this issue. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.