There are no safety recalls for the 2020 Kia Forte, but owners have filed 78 complaints with NHTSA.
2020 Kia Forte problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Unknown or Other | 26 | |
| Engine | 20 | |
| Power Train | 16 | |
| Electrical System | 11 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 6 | |
| Air Bags | 5 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 4 | |
| Steering | 3 | |
| Lane Departure | 3 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 3 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 3 | |
| Structure | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 4
- Lane Departure › Assist — 2
- Structure › Body — 1
- Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights › Bulbs — 1
- Electrical System › Ignition › Anti-Theft › Immobilizer/Proximity › Key/Sender — 1
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 1
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Catalytic Convertor — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 7,000 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 2020 Kia Forte complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Engine · reported Oct 8, 2026
During a day trip on 9/19/26 my 2020 Kia Forte (purchased new and well maintained) lost power and several of the dash board lights came on including check engine, traction/stability control, and collision alerts. The car entered what I was told is "limp mode". I had the car towed home and after one shop misdiagnosed the problem I had it towed to the Kia dealership where purchased. I was told the engine had code p0017. I was sent a document that the "phaser sheared off p0017 exhaust cam and cvvd gear timing off-recommend long block-cvvd replacement may still have engine damaged after…
Engine · reported Oct 6, 2026
My engine is failing due to excessive oil consumption despite having proof of regular oil changes and maintenance. My car has been inspected, and the dealer has stated this is due to a known manufacture defect. My safety and others are at risk because my car stalls when I decrease speed and I cannot accelerate fast enough to get up to the speed limit creating a risk anytime the speed limit changes or when I am using an on ramp to get onto an interstate or highway. Kia dealer has confirmed the issue and is currently working on an estimate for a new engine. The Kia dealer is the manufacturer of…
Engine · reported Sep 21, 2026
The engine has failed in this vehicle just like it has in other 2.0L kia vehicles 2020-2026. The piston rings have failed and the pistons have all pitted or developed holes in them just like in the recall 25V-099/kia safety recall SC336
Air Bags · at 109,900 miles · reported Aug 25, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bags warning light illuminated and then went off. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the air bag warning light was again illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to…
Engine · reported Aug 23, 2026
Engine burning excessive oil over a quart in 1000 miles. Catalytic converter code P0420 because of the excessive oil burning. Oil was always changed within the specified dealer milage range.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2020 Kia Forte have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2020 Kia Forte as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2020 Kia Forte?
Owners report unknown or other problems most often (26 reports), followed by engine (20). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 7,000 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.