2021 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 2021 Kia Forte problems
The Kia Forte is a popular compact car that has been praised for its affordability, practicality, and reliability. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the Kia Forte, based on complaints from owners:
Speaker Problems (2011-2016, 2018 models)
One of the most common problems reported by Kia Forte owners is issues with the speakers. A software glitch may cause the speakers to not produce sound at all, which can prevent the use of the radio, CD player, navigation feature, and other functions. This issue commonly happens at around 73,000 miles and can be resolved with a hard reset by disconnecting the car's negative battery terminal and reconnecting it after 15 minutes. If that doesn't work, it may be caused by component failure and should be checked by a mechanic.
Engine Problems (2017 model)
The 2017 Kia Forte has been reported to have engine problems that can cause abnormal knocking sounds, excessive stalling, shaking, idling, misfiring, and complete engine failure. Some owners have reported that their engines would suddenly die while driving, which may increase the risk of accidents. These engine problems have been linked to bad ignition coils and can cause multiple crashes, leading to injury. Some owners were able to get their Fortes back on the road after getting ignition coil replacements, but the cause of the premature wear is unknown.
Exterior Lighting Malfunction (2015 model)
The 2015 Kia Forte's exterior lighting problems can become bothersome to deal with. It doesn't happen with just the headlights; all exterior lights may randomly malfunction for no apparent reason.
Fuel Line Running Too Lean (2021 model)
One owner of a 2021 Kia Forte reported having issues with the fuel line running too lean in the end of July, after an engine replacement in March/April. The dealership said they fixed it, but the owner is getting the same issue again. This issue can cause the engine to misfire, run poorly, or stall.
It's important to note that these issues are not necessarily indicative of all Kia Forte models, and many owners report having no problems with their vehicles. However, these are some of the most commonly reported issues based on complaints from owners. If you're considering purchasing a Kia Forte, it's always a good idea to do your research and be aware of any potential issues.
What are the common issues with the 2021 Kia Forte?
Common problems found on the 2021 Kia Forte include issues with the automatic braking system, stereo freezing, along with the brake pads wearing out quickly. Overall, most of these problems are similar to other small cars, leading to average repair costs as the Forte ages.
Is 2021 Kia Forte a reliable car?
The 2021 Kia Forte has a predicted reliability score of 87 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Are there any recalls on the 2021 Kia Forte?
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Rio and Forte vehicles. A bolt in the steering column may not be secured properly, which can cause the steering column to detach from the steering rack and result in a loss of steering control.
Is the 2021 Kia reliable?
Yes, Kias are reliable cars. J.D. Power ranked Kia the most reliable mass-market manufacturer in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Kia vehicles also have one of the industry's longest powertrain warranties: 10 years/100,000 miles.
2021 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:
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Kia Forte vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2021 Kia Forte
The NHTSA has received 44 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Kia Forte. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2021 Kia Forte vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-24
- VIN: 3KPF24AD9ME
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: There is loud sound associated with the steering column! It has locked on me before and wouldn’t allow me to turn the vehicle. It has been to the dealership several times only for them to not be able to pinpoint the issue.i have a video but no pictures.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-20
- VIN: 3KPF24AD6ME
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I get regularly scheduled oil changes but the car is making a noise like a rod knock
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-22
- VIN: 3KPF24AD8ME
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I purchased this care new, and the manufacture did not disclose that the vehicle was NOT made with an engine immobilizer, or any theft prevention outside a basic door lock. (Kia Hyundai Vehicle Theft Marketing, Sales Practices, and Products Liability Litigation, No. 8:22-ML-3052 JVS(KESx) (C.D. Cal.). I've already stopped the theft once and scared away the thief's, but now I can't find insurance companies to insure the vehicle. The 2 companies that I did find for insurance, charge 15% of the value of the vehicle for comprehensive and collision coverage. Even with the useless class action lawsuit settlement to upgrade the software, this is NOT stopping the thieves from breaking into the cars, and NOT impressing the insurance companies either as they won't insure this expensive asset. I've never seen so much deception in the automotive industry. The government should mandate a recall to install a KIA or aftermarket security system in this car with a starter kill & visual blinking lights to stop the theft. They should also be required to make national awareness messages to communicate that all affected vehicles will have security systems installed and theft will no longer be possible. This would STOP the problems and continuing extreme costs to the customers.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-02
- VIN: 3KPF24AD8ME
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The hood on my car seems to be loose as it rattles when closed and driving. It does appear to be latched, however I'm concerned that the hood will come loose and blow up in front of the windshield while driving causing a life threatening accident. The hood bumpers on the inside of the hood are not adjustable, and/or long enough to cushion the hood to stop the rattling either.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- VIN: 3KPF34AD9ME
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Driving down the highway and sunroof exploded. Sounded like a gun shot
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-03
- VIN: 3KPF24AD5ME
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The electric steering column motor has worn parts causing the steering wheel to make a rubbing noise. There is a TSB out for this problem but for cars only manufactured in certain plants. My car was not manufactured in one of the plants that generated the TSB but I have that problem and Kia will not fix it. TSB CHA 084
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-26
- VIN: 3KPF34AD1ME
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: While driving on the interstate, multiple dash lights came on, the engine started knocking and shutting down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership and was found that the oil plug had fallen out, causing the oil to drain out and ruin the motor.
STEERING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-22
- VIN: 3KPF44ACXME
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE
- Summary: Transmission overheating and dragging… weird smell and noise and scrubbing sound when turning the steering wheel. Only 50k miles on car
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-08
- VIN: 3KPF44AC2ME
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Service engine light turns off then comes back on. Get message engine failure. Scanner at dealership scanned 15 codes relating to misfires on all cylinders. Positive battery terminal caked up real bad causing arcing and melting plastic. Last I heard from dealership was possibly a engine replacement.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: 3KPF24AD8ME
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I am so sadden and broke. My Kia 2021 Forte was stollen.The car has just about 8k miles. The thieves had busted rear passenger side glass, torn down steering column, opened electric wiring Skelton and taken away the car. Police said they found my damaged car. I was also told that my damaged car was towed and was kept at auto body shop. I'm so depressed, upset. Its difficult to express in words how saddened I'm at loss in all aspects - physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially since the vehicle was stolen.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-20
- VIN: 3KPF54AD1ME
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: My Kia forte 21 that I owned for less than 2 years, stalled out while driving on 20 April 23. The engine light came on. I checked the oil and there was none , despite having regular maintenance being performed. No light indicators appeared informing me that my vehicle had no oil left. My vehicle had 21,234 miles when the engine failed. Kia has yet to contact me or assist me with this matter. I could’ve possibly died while driving on the highway and my car randomly stalling out.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-04
- VIN: 3KPF54AD3ME
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was driving down a highway with no other cars near me and heard a loud noise (sounded like a gunshot). I pulled over and my sunroof had exploded. The glass was facing upwards not downwards. It appears it exploded from the inside not by a foreign object.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-20
- VIN: 3KPF24ADXME
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine is very noisy for quite some time before getting quiet. 40000 miles. Lifters making a lot of noise. Possibly a failing oil pump.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-11
- VIN: 3KPF24ADXME
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My vehicle was stolen and recovered a couple of days later. The only damage to the vehicle is a broken window and broken ignition dash Currently trending is the Kia challenge where vehicles from 2011-2021 are missing tan anti-theft feature that makes it an easier target to steal. Kia is aware of this and not doing anything about this, not even sending a letter advising their customer of this trend and how we can protect our vehicles. The vehicles need to be recalled because currently millions of customers are driving a vehicle that can be stolen at any time with something as basic as a USB cable. Kia needs to take responsibility and accountability for this major flaw. Now customers have to be left dealing with the insurance and proving to them they are not involved in their own vehicle thefts. I have police report number, still waiting for the actual police report.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-24
- VIN: 3KPF44AC0ME
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: It seems the car may have a defect in the transmission(Dual Clutch). The car makes at times an abrupt stop, for like a second or two, after I press on the gas. When I'm driving, especially at low speeds I can hear the transmission's parts make a grinding sounds, loud clicks. When I'm breaking, it's not smooth at all; I feel the car pulling a bit when switching to lower gears during the breaking process. When I have the car on and not moving (i.e parked), I can hear sounds emanating from the bottom of the car, like parts grinding against other parts. I have not seen any indicator light turn on from the vehicle, to this day. I have taken it to the dealership before, more than once, but they haven't found any issues with it. Still I feel they have not done a full inspection of the car, and I feel something is off with the transmission, like there's something loose somewhere in the car.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-21
- VIN: 3KPF44AC5ME
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: 1.Vehicle on spots of highway will apply the forward collision warning system and suddenly brake that may cause a collision with vehicle behind it. 2. Theft is sweeping the nation for Kia/Hyundai vehicles and this vehicle is a target. Hyundai/Kia need to install security protocols on their product as this should have been on the product since purchase.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-05
- VIN: 3KPF24AD5ME
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My car was stolen. Steering column busted ignition switch taken out. Passenger side window busted.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-03
- VIN: 3KPF24AD6ME
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: My car was stolen from in front of my home, they were able to steal my brand new car because they popped off the bottom steering wheel cover and used an iphone charger to start the ignition and drive away.
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-03
- VIN: 3KPF24AD6ME
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: My main issue is concerning a critical design flaw that has been found due to a social media challenge called the Kia Challenge where people are able to start up and steal a Kia after only using a USB cord adapter (found near the key start on the steering wheel) without needing a key. This has caused a concerning increase in the theft of Kias across the country which has also affected my insurance rates. After repeatedly trying to contact Kia for two days on August 2nd and August 3rd, I was finally able to get in contact with customer service concerning the recent issue with Kias (model years of 2011 to 2021 with manual key start steering wheels) that are being stolen by just using a USB cord to turn on the car without a key. After waiting on hold for an hour, the customer service agent was extremely rude and uncaring about my concerns as my area is also being affected by these recent car thefts. My insurance rates have also gone up due to the overall riskiness of owning these cars and their likelihood of being stolen because it has a key start for the engine. After doing research on the information available to me, I found out that Kia higher-ups approved measures to cut the costs by not including automobile immobilizers that have been the industry standard for a little over 20s years. It makes no sense that my older 2018 model Camry has industry standard parts but my 2021 Kia Forte does not. I am highly aggravated that I am stuck having to pay for a vehicle that has a higher likelihood of being stolen all because the company wanted to save a few dollars and not include immobilizers on their cars until the 2022 models. I am highly upset that Kia, their reps, and dealers have displayed an abhorrent lack of concern in trying to fix this issue as this prevents me from having to go to important job sites for work. This issue needs to be resolved as soon as possible. Link to story https://www.insider.com/tiktok-kia-challenge-using-usb-cables-to-steal-cars-2022-7
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-25
- VIN: 3KPF44AC0ME
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: While driving down the highway, the entire crank pulley system fell out from under the car and onto the highway.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-01
- VIN: 3KPF34AD9ME
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle started to decelerate while the RPM increased. The contact pulled over to the side and notice the vehicle smoking but there was no fire. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact towed the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 35,642.
ENGINE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-28
- VIN: 3KPF34AD5ME
- Components: ENGINE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Ticking sound under hood at 35000 miles
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-18
- VIN: 3KPF34AD2ME
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: When I abruptly have to step on the brakes to stop the vehicle, the backseat behind the driver and the middle seat fall forward. This has happened multiple times.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-01
- VIN: 3KPF24AD5ME
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Recall
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-25
- VIN: 3KPF44AC0ME
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: Vehicle has issues where transmission actuator will stop functioning causing sudden loss of acceleration. Was doing 70 MPH in expressway and vehicle stopped accelerating. Issue has occurred two times, both times being serviced by Dealership, after receiving the vehicle back, issue still persists, vehicle lost acceleration suddenly when turning into a intersection.
2021 Kia Forte recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2021 Kia Forte.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: STEERING:COLUMN
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Rio and Forte vehicles. A bolt in the steering column may not be secured properly, which can cause the steering column to detach from the steering rack and result in a loss of steering control.
- Consequence: Loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will tighten the lower steering column u-joint retention bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall SC235.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Telluride, K5, and Forte vehicles. The Occupant Classification and Detection System (OCS/ODS) unit may not detect the presence of a child restraint system in the front passenger seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, deployment of the front passenger air bag, with a child in that seat, can increase the risk of injury to the child.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCS/ODS unit, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC207.
Negative 2021 Kia Forte car reviews
Positive 2021 Kia Forte car reviews
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This car is not only fun to drive, but it also packs a punch with its powerful engine. It's stunning to look at and surprisingly spacious, making it comfortable for passengers. The team at Kia makes the buying process a breeze. I would definitely give them a 10!
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I'm so glad to hear that you love this car and all its features!
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Very nice driving car. Quite friendly!
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This car has always been a great running car!
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Use mostly as commuter car and gets excellent mileage. It's easy and fun to drive, and I absolutely love the GT trim. Although the cabin can be loud on the freeway, I still adore this car.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Kia Forte problems:
Yet ANOTHER issue with my 2021 Forte : r/kia
Aug 9, 2023 ... Dealership said they fixed it, and now I'm getting the SAME issue again. I've done nothing but take care of this car and I have so many issues ...
2021 Kia Forte Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Apr 19, 2023 ... What Common Problems Does the 2021 Kia Forte Have? · Issues with the automatic braking system are the most widespread complaint on the 2021 Kia ...
2021 Kia Forte Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2021 Kia Forte? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2021 Transmission | Kia Forte Forum
Jun 29, 2021 ... Definitely a gearbox problem. After they took apart the transmission, the dealer confirmed it was a prematurely worn gear selector fork (the ...
2021 Kia Forte Top Problems, Issues & Complaints - Is Your Car A ...
Reported issues for the 2021 Kia Forte include transmission, brake & steering problems. Is your car a lemon? Lemberg Law can help you!
Other years of Kia Forte
Are you having problems with your 2021 Kia Forte?
Jeffrey Ritchie 2024-10-04
This car has many great features, but unfortunately, I recently learned that it may not be the best option in a crisis. While attempting to avoid another vehicle, the crash avoidance system, which usually works well, failed to activate. I am grateful that my family was not with me at the time. If you prioritize handling over looks and features, you may want to consider a different car.
Eddie Kohler 2024-03-21
When you use AC Forte, it is not good on gas. It uses a lot more than expected for a small car.
Norval Renner 2024-02-19
I was disappointed to learn upon pickup that the vehicle did not come with a spare tire. The documentation handbook for the vehicle referenced a spare and jack kit in the trunk, but unfortunately, it was not there. In my opinion, a spare kit is a crucial safety feature, and consumers should be informed if it is excluded from the product so they can choose whether or not to mitigate the risk by ordering or negotiating the spares/kit. Unfortunately, after only 400 miles, my son hit a curb while parking, and it punctured the sidewall, resulting in a flat tire. It was a nightmare to resolve this issue, as we had to purchase a jack, a new matching tire, and then take the new tire and flat/rim to a service station. Having a donut spare and jack kit in the car would have made the experience much less stressful.