2015 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 2015 Kia Forte problems
The Kia Forte 2015 has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to engine issues, oil leaks, and melting electronics.
- Engine Failure: The Kia Forte 2015 has been reported to have engine problems, including complete engine failure. The engine may fail to start, emit white smoke from the tailpipe, or consume excessive oil.
- Oil Leaks: The Kia Forte 2015 has been reported to have oil leaks, which can cause significant damage to the engine if not addressed promptly. The oil leaks can result from worn-out gaskets, seals, or other engine components. The oil leaks can cause the engine to run hot, leading to engine failure or other engine problems.
- Melting Electronics: The Kia Forte 2015 has been reported to have melting electronics, which can cause the car's electrical system to malfunction. The melting electronics can result from faulty wiring, overheating components, or other electrical issues. The melting electronics can cause the car's electrical system to shut down, leaving the driver stranded.
In summary, the Kia Forte 2015 has been reported to have engine problems, oil leaks, and melting electronics. These issues can cause significant damage to the car and result in costly repairs. It is essential to address these issues promptly and seek professional help to avoid further damage to the car.
Is the 2015 Kia Forte a reliable vehicle?
The 2015 Forte earns an above-average reliability rating of four out of five from J.D. Power.
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.
Are there any recalls on 2015 Kia Forte?
2015 Kia Forte Koup Recall
Description of Recall: 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.
How many miles can a 2015 Kia Forte last?
RandyM said: The Kia Forte generally gets good marks for its longevity. PepairPal, for example, rates the Forte above average and will probably last 150,000-200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
2015 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
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2015 Kia Forte vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2015 Kia Forte
The NHTSA has received 223 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2015 Kia Forte. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2015 Kia Forte vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- VIN: KNAFK4A69F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The engine lost pressure while being driven on the interstate. My daughter was able to pull over and then the car began to smoke. She and a passenger immediately exited the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the nearest shop and was diagnosed with engine failure. My daughter indicated that no check engine light illuminated nor did the temperature gauge note that the vehicle was overheating, but it just began to lose pressure even when she tried to accelerate. I was researching cost to have the engine replaced and came across other Forte owner's testimony that they have had engine problems as well, but the Forte was not listed under the Kia recall for engine issues. But perhaps, it should be.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
- VIN: KNAFX5A86F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Forte. The contact stated that the engine was making an abnormal sound. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V750000 (Engine); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, but 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 made aware of the issue. The manufacturer opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 119,597. Parts distribution disconnect.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- VIN: KNAFK4A66F5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Vechile was parked & an attempted theft took place at 4am. It happened due to No immobilizer & No security system at all!
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-11
- VIN: KNAFX4A66F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine malfunctioned while driving vehicle on busy street. There were no engine lights on prior to malfunction. Oil change and routine maintenance was completed. Unknown if problem is reproduced, just word of mouth that other Kia have had problems with engines. No inspections completed.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-01
- VIN: KNAFZ5A36F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I have already filled out one of these forms a couple of years ago. It is absolutely ridiculous that every 2011-2015 Kia Forte engine has been recalled, but mine has not. My engine completely blew up a few years ago. It has the exact same problem all these other engines have. I called Kia and asked them to help me replace it bc the issue is exactly the same and they refused. A con-rod warped and then broke and it shot through the bottom of my engine. The rod could have shot back into the inside of the car. God forbid my daughter would be in my car and that happens. I had to replace the engine and the turbo which isn’t cheap at all. Then because of the strain of all of that, it made my transmission go out which has now been replaced. All of these other engines have the exact same problem. It’s the same problem as the 2.0L, but I guess because mine is a 1.6L and it’s a manual transmission, mine hasn’t been recalled yet? The only reason I’m making another report is because my check engine light is on, AGAIN, and the new engine in my car is starting to experience the exact same issues as my last one. Literally every other type of Kia Forte engine has been recalled except for my. I would like a recalled to be issued and a refund of the money I have sunk into this car. I can’t sell it because I owe too much on it, so the only option is to fix it. At this point I have put more than double the amount of money into this car than it’s even worth. Something needs to be done here. I’m really not trying to wait around until it blows up again and I have to replace another engine. I know I’m just one person, but there has to be other complaints like this.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-15
- VIN: KNAFK4A63F5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving at approximately 5 MPH, the brakes failed to respond while the brake pedal was being depressed. The contact was able to come to a stop by engaging the parking brake. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the brake lines needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 56,334.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- VIN: KNAFK4A63F5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: On approximately, 04/15/2024, 8:00 am, My 2015 Kia Forte with less 115,000 miles suddenly shut down going 65 MPH! A severe accident was avoided by manhandling the steering wheel to get it to the side of the road. When I called the Kia's Consumer Affair, to report the incident, I was told there was no recall on the motor so they were not labile. I am very frustrated, upset and stressed that Kia's doesn't care about it reputation.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- VIN: KNAFX4A8XF5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle did not accelerate as intended. In addition, the RPMs were elevated extremely high. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure however, the contact was informed that the repair would not be covered under NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V750000 (Engine). In addition, the contact was informed that the recall notification had expired. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-29
- VIN: KNAFX4A82F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Purchased the car certified preowned from a Kia dealer with 45,000 miles on it, meaning I would have the the remaining 55,000 miles of the 100,000 mile powertrain coverage. At 77,000 miles a small ticking noise started on the way to work and became a knock on the way home. I pulled over where it was safe and towed it to the dealer. They replaced the engine under warranty. Now at 154,000 everything has been running great except for burning oil rather quickly. Where I get my oil changes done offers free top-offs so I would return frequently to make certain the oil level was always in the safe zone. Driving home from work one night, I was on a busy freeway when suddenly and without warning a small squeak noise came from the engine and it stalled. Luckily I just happened to be in the right lane and there happened to be a narrow but safe shoulder to coast over to. Had this happened while I was close to the fast lane, the consequences could’ve been dire. The engine would not hardly turn over and would not start. I had it towed to my mechanic who said it sounds like a serious engine problem and you should contact the dealer. I towed it to the local Kia dealership where the service department informed me that there was an extended 50,000 mile warranty added to the original 100,000 warranty (which I was never notified about) but since I was 4,000 miles over I did not qualify. This means the replacement engine quit after 77,000 miles just like the original. I feel that they should in good faith honor the warranty - had I been informed I could brought the car in just 4,000 miles earlier and they would’ve checked the compression and determined that the rings were failing which is why it used so much oil, and they would’ve replaced this second engine under warranty.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-04
- VIN: KNAFK4A6XF5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Full engine failure at around 110,000 miles. Metal shavings in oil. Car stalls suddenly when driving. Unsafe to drive.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-08
- VIN: KNAFK4A68F5
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Over the last 5 years that I have owned the vehicle, the engine will stall when idle or at low speeds. This has happened at stop lights, on hills and while on the highway (which is obviously very dangerous). The engine the vehicle has to be turned off and restarted and usually it will stall again within a few minutes. For the most part, this happens after the vehicle has been driven for at least 15-20 minutes and there are few issues at higher speeds. As such, when taken to the dealer, they have been unable to replicate the issue. The issue is sometimes resolved after an oil change, however it may recur before the next oil change is due (ie within 3 months). The vehicle has otherwise had it's recommended service Many internet searches note many vehicles of my model and many other Kia's with the exact same issue
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-24
- VIN: KNAFZ6A36F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: engine seized at the light. i was stuck in the middle of a 6 lane road located in greenville midnight. engine can cause a fire and burn up while i’m inside. the problem was confirmed by a test machine by the mechanic “Knock Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1)” no warning lights at all! … the traffic light was red and once it turned green i let off the brake and then it shut off
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-15
- VIN: KNAFZ4A84F5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When driving it suddenly won't pull a hill. It will slow down to 20-30 mph even on an interstate. I've had it in the shop several time and they can't find anything wrong. It did it again and I took it in and the mechanic told me there was a recall on the computer system but I can't find it. If there's a recall please let me know at [XXX] . Thanks [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-10
- VIN: KNAFK4A6XF5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine shuts off while driving
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-22
- VIN: KNAFZ5A36F5
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I purchased a 2015 Kia Forte5 car (Pearl White) used but I noticed the paint peeling. It seems to be getting worse because the same spot is getting bigger and now a new spot on the top has appeared. I took the car to a body shop and was told it was a factory paint defect. I went online and saw that Kia and Hyundai had a factory issue with the pearl white paint for several years around my car year model. I was wondering if the paint chipping can be fixed or me compensated for the repairs. The damage is on the rear hatch and passenger side top of car next to sunroof. One is about a quarter size and the other a little smaller than a dime. Thanks in advance, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-03
- VIN: KNAFX4A60F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The engine in my car began failing at 60,000 mile despite having all maintenance records. The KIA dealership expressed that this is happening to many similar cars and a recall was issued for a similar engine to mine with the same issue. They expressed that the engine could seize up while driving and cause a wreck unless I purchase a new/used one to put into my car. Again all routine maintenance was kept up to date.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-25
- VIN: KNAFX4A60F5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My vehicle was broken into and there was an attempt to steal the car. I made a police report and they expressed that the car would have been driven recklessly and potentially crashed if it was stolen. The safety issues with KIA fortes have become a huge issue nation wide and the cars should be recalled to have standard security installed that a majority of other cars already have equipped.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-15
- VIN: KNAFX4A86F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Car has same issues for 4 years, shaking, stalling, loosing speed while driving. Check engine light on. Light knocking noise while driving can’t go above 45 miles an hour. Also 3 times car smelled like electrical burning. But was told by Kia nothing wrong with engine
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-14
- VIN: KNAFK4A6XF5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The car keeps stalling out while stopped. No check engine lights or anything . It will then sit for a minute ot two then start back.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-12
- VIN: KNAFX4A82F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My daughter was driving it and all of a sudden the engine light came on then the oil it started to loose power so she pulled over right away so we had it towed to a mechanic and the motor needs to be replaced. We never had problems at all with it until then its been well taken care of.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- VIN: KNAFX4A65F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Three years ago, I took my car to 2 separate kia dealers regarding the knocking in engine. Both said it's "normal". I told them then that they wouldn't sell the car with it knocking. I was contacted in 2022 by credit karma of a safety recall regarding brakes. Another recall was from kia regarding safety from vehicles easily being stolen. I cleared these 2 safety recalls on my vehicle, but I am still being told nothing is wrong with the knocking I hear under the hood. My vin# states my car isn't affected, but I think it is. My brand of car should be included in this recall. Thank you
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-20
- VIN: KNAFX5A81F5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Going down an incline the brakes can go to the floor. Usually if the pavement is a little bumpy. It’s like you loose all braking.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-27
- VIN: KNAFX5A85F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine failure. I was stopped at a red light and when I pressed the accelerator to go, I didn't realize the engine shut down. I had to have the car towed and learned a day later of the engine recall for the 2015 Kia Forte EX 5
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-26
- VIN: KNAFX4A60F5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My engine blew up. It should be included in the recall but it says its not for the 2012-2015 kia forte.
AIR BAGS,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: KNAFX4A81F5
- Components: AIR BAGS,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: AIRBAG WARNING IS ON, BUTTONS/CONTROL OF THE WHEEL DONT WORK, CRUISE CONTROL DOES NOT WORK. MOTOR SHAKES A LOT. WE GOT THIS CAR 2-3 WEEKS AGO LIGHT WAS NOT ON WHEN WE GOT IT FROM THE DEALER. IM NOT AN EXPERT BUT I THINK THAT SOMETHING IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY... IM DO APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE
2015 Kia Forte recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2015 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.
Negative 2015 Kia Forte car reviews
Positive 2015 Kia Forte car reviews
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That's great value!
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The car drives great and I really love the interior design. The touch screen radio is a plus, as well as the back up camera. Cowboy Kia did a great job finding the right car for me. I would definitely recommend them to anyone!
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I'm glad to hear that this car has been a reliable and efficient daily commuter for you for seven years. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive and the seating may not be the most comfortable, the exterior is quite elegant. If safety and reliability are your top priorities, the Forte is a great choice for getting from point A to B hassle-free.
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I bought this car back in 2018 and it still amazes me to this day, even after 5 years. Recently, I had to replace the engine due to some serious damage caused by a pothole on my trip to Monterey. Despite this setback, I still love my car and it looks as good as new. I decided to go with a used engine for $6,000, which was honestly the best option since I still owed on it. Now, I only drive it on roads that I'm familiar with. Overall, I can confidently say that this is the best car I've ever had!
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I'm someone who tends to be skeptical of advertising, but I have to say, this car is truly incredible. This is actually my second Kia - my last one was a new Optima 2012 EX, which was also fantastic. I decided to lease this one after 3 years with the Optima, and I'm so glad I did. Not only did my lease payment drop from $295 to $165, but I also couldn't even tell the difference between the models on the road until I was right on top of them. In terms of comfort, it's just as comfy as the Optima (with great seats and leg room), but a little smaller - which isn't an issue for me, even though I'm 6'2
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2015 Kia Forte problems:
Kia Forte 2015 should I buy? : r/kia
Feb 16, 2023 ... The 2015 Forte has major engine problems, and Kias manufactured between 2011 and 2021 don't have immobilizers on them. Insurance companies ...
Kia Forte Problems Include Oil Leaks, Complete Engine Failure, and ...
Mar 8, 2022 ... Theta II Engine Found in 2012 to 2015 Kia Forte Models is Prone to Knocking, Oil Leaks, and Catching Fire. The most severe problem with the Kia ...
Q&A: Kia Forte 2015 LX 1.8 Engine - Common Problems & Solutions
Nov 29, 2018 ... The idle speed on your car is electronically controlled. So if there is a low idle and stall, there is a slight running issue or component not ...
100k plus miles on 1.8l motor? | Kia Forte Forum
Dec 30, 2021 ... The same goes for the 2.0 GDI, most are running without any problems, and after 2016, the problem was no longer there. Enjoy your car, don't ...
2015 Kia Forte | CarComplaints.com
Click on a category below for details. · engine problems9NHTSA complaints: 110 · lights problems2NHTSA complaints: 12 · transmission problems2 · interior ...
Other years of Kia Forte
Are you having problems with your 2015 Kia Forte?
Al Herman 2024-08-29
Despite being fully maintained, my Kia caught fire with only 52,000 miles on it. However, Kia replaced the engine under warranty, but unfortunately, the car's performance did not improve. As a result, I decided to trade it for a 2019 Mazda 3. While my experience with Kia was not positive, I am confident that my new Mazda will provide me with a better driving experience.
Tristian Wilderman 2024-08-07
We have had our Kia Forte for about 3 months now. During our first oil change, we noticed that we were being charged for a service that was supposed to be free according to our contract. We politely pointed out the mistake and after some verification, the dealership acknowledged their error. However, we have since experienced a popping sound in the steering wheel for about a week. We contacted the service department and were advised to bring the car in. Unfortunately, due to high demand, the wait time was estimated to be at least 2 hours. We inquired about a rental car, but were informed that it was only available if the car was kept overnight or deemed undriveable. While we understand the dealership's policy, we were disappointed that we had to wait for such a long time to have our car serviced. As a new car owner, we expected a smoother experience. We hope that in the future, the dealership can provide more efficient and convenient service to their customers. The trade-in value offered for our 2-year-old car was only $5000, despite the fact that we still owe $15000. Unfortunately, the dealership declined to accept our Kia. However, it is important to note that Kia cars are known for their reliability and quality, and we are confident that we will find a better deal elsewhere.
Enoch Pfannerstill 2024-05-25
The gas mileage is not as good as advertised, averaging only mid to high 20s even with careful driving. The turbo is not as powerful as expected, resulting in slower acceleration compared to other turbocharged vehicles. Unfortunately, the Microsoft UVO system is not very useful. Additionally, the paint chips easily, with the hood and Kia logo epoxy coating being particularly affected. We had to replace the spark plugs three times and a control module for unknown reasons. Unless the car is priced under $10k, it may not be worth the investment. Overall, this car has some significant drawbacks to consider.
Cody Herman 2024-05-21
The car unexpectedly failed to start, with the service light on. Despite attempting to boost the battery, the issue persisted and I had to have it towed to the dealer. Although it was out of warranty by 3000 km, I took responsibility for the cost of repairs, which involved replacing the starter. While it is uncommon to experience such a serious mechanical issue at a relatively low mileage, I am confident in my decision to address the problem promptly. While I may not purchase another Kia in the future, I recognize the importance of investing in a reliable vehicle such as a Civic or Corolla. I would rate my experience accordingly.
Sim Braun 2024-04-13
Despite having taken the car to two different dealerships twice, the issue of hesitation and poor pick up still persists. As an experienced driver, I can confidently say that there is an issue with the car that needs to be addressed.