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2015 Kia Forte recalls and problems

The 2015 Kia Forte has 1 safety recall and 262 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
262
Crashes / fires
16 / 20
Injuries / deaths
11 / 1

Recalls may cover only some 2015 Kia Forte vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2015 Kia Forte recalls

Recall 20V-750: Engine

Reported Dec 2, 2020 · 294,756 vehicles affected · Kia Motors America

Problem: 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.

Risk: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.

Fix: 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.

2015 Kia Forte problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Engine160
Unknown or Other31
Electrical System29
Air Bags23
Power Train17
Service Brakes15
Exterior Lighting13
Fuel/Propulsion System10
Vehicle Speed Control5
Steering4
Structure4
Engine and Engine Cooling4

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body — 4
  • Visibility › Glass, Side/Rear — 2
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Catalytic Convertor — 2
  • Electrical System › Ignition › Coil › Spark Plugs — 2
  • Tires › Bead — 1
  • Wheels › Rim — 1
  • Electrical System › Ignition — 1
  • Electrical System › Starter Assembly — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 75,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2015 Kia Forte complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine · reported Oct 27, 2026
This is the report copy and reference number for 911. I have contacted Kia multiple times during lunch breaks sent emails, and they still are not responding even after photos were sent to them. They told me in 5 days I would here back form them an still Ive heard nothing.Reference # XXX The fire dep “# INCIDENT REPORT Reference #XXX **Vehicle Smoke Incident and 911 Emergency Call** **Date of Incident:** Monday, XXX **Time of 911 Call:** 10:11 a.m. **Location:** Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center [XXX] [XXX] **Vehicle Involved:** 2015 Kia Forte ### Description of Incident On Monday…
Engine · reported Oct 26, 2026
On October the 14th, around 10:30 AM I noticed smoke coming from my car and acceleration was lost. The vehicle continued to smoke further. As I Had someone maneuver the car out of traffic into the parking lot.\n While reaching the parking lot, more smoke was noticed, so I dispatch the Riverside fire department. After one of the fire responders checked under the hood, they noticed that there was oil in various places, including the engine area and in the PAN underneath, they checked the oil and found oil still inside. Unit. The fire man check , both told me to not drive the car any further…
Engine · reported Sep 30, 2026
Vehicle has developed a severe knocking during acceleration, that stops during deceleration, and returns when in idle. I'm sure it is poison slap. I know there is an extension warranty, but the dealer says my car doesn't qualify. Then NHTSA has the SC200 safety recall. I need help with this car. My engine is failing. Can you help me?
Engine · reported Sep 10, 2026
While driving my 2015 Kia Forte5 at approximately 80 mph on GA-400, I was traveling in the far-left lane when the vehicle suddenly and unexpectedly lost acceleration and engine power. Pressing the accelerator produced little to no response. There was no gradual reduction in speed or sufficient warning that the vehicle was about to lose propulsion. Because I was in the far-left lane, I had to maneuver across approximately four lanes of highway traffic to reach the shoulder. Fortunately, this occurred at night when traffic was relatively light, allowing me to get the vehicle to safety. GA-400…
Engine · reported Jul 12, 2026
Recently had oil change . Right after B oil change engine light came on, a solid yellow light car is driving rough it’s a 2015 Kia Forte. Have an appointment Monday 7/13/2026 to have dealer to do a B diagnostic. The same place I had oil change

Other Kia Forte years

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Frequently asked questions

Does the 2015 Kia Forte have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2015 Kia Forte: 20V-750 (engine). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2015 Kia Forte?

Owners report engine problems most often (160 reports), followed by unknown or other (31). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 75,000 miles.

Are Kia recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.