2019 Kia Forte recalls and problems
The 2019 Kia Forte has 2 safety recalls and 150 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2019 Kia Forte vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2019 Kia Forte recalls
Recall 20V-459: Power Train
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Forte vehicles. The left front axle driveshaft may not have been heat-treated, which can cause it to break.
Risk: A broken driveshaft can result in a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left front axle driveshaft for a heat treatment verification code, and replace it if the code is missing, free of charge. The recall began September 2, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC195.
Recall 18V-771: Exterior Lighting
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Kia Forte vehicles equipped with LED headlights. The headlights may not have been manufactured with the correct low beam aiming. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk: If the headlights are not properly aimed, the driver may have reduced visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlight aiming and replace the headlights, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 30, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC171.
2019 Kia Forte problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Power Train | 48 | |
| Engine | 38 | |
| Electrical System | 23 | |
| Unknown or Other | 22 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 22 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 17 | |
| Steering | 9 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 7 | |
| Air Bags | 6 | |
| Lane Departure | 6 | |
| Structure | 4 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 4 |
Most reported parts
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 14
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 7
- Structure › Body — 4
- Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection — 2
- Electrical System › Ignition › Anti-Theft › Immobilizer/Proximity › Key/Sender — 2
- Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights — 2
- Lane Departure › Warning — 2
- Tires › Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 10,403 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 2019 Kia Forte complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Kia Forte years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2019 Kia Forte have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2019 Kia Forte: 20V-459 (power train), 18V-771 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2019 Kia Forte?
Owners report power train problems most often (48 reports), followed by engine (38). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 10,403 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.