2021 Kia Forte recalls and problems
The 2021 Kia Forte has 2 safety recalls and 69 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2021 Kia Forte vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2021 Kia Forte recalls
Recall 22V-304: Steering
Problem: 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.
Risk: Loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
Recall 21V-164: Air Bags
Problem: 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."
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
2021 Kia Forte problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 22 | |
| Unknown or Other | 18 | |
| Steering | 9 | |
| Electrical System | 9 | |
| Air Bags | 7 | |
| Power Train | 7 | |
| Tires | 5 | |
| Seat Belts | 4 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 3 | |
| Structure | 3 | |
| Equipment | 2 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 2 |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 3
- Tires › Pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems — 2
- Lane Departure › Assist — 2
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 2
- Equipment › Mechanical › Boom/Crane/Ladder › Hoses/Cables/Rods/Gears/Strut/Cylinder — 1
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Caliper — 1
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc — 1
- Electrical System › Ignition › Anti-Theft › Control Module — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 35,642 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 2021 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 2021 Kia Forte have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Kia Forte: 22V-304 (steering), 21V-164 (air bags). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 Kia Forte?
Owners report engine problems most often (22 reports), followed by unknown or other (18). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 35,642 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.