*Median odometer reading when the problem happened, where owners gave one. One complaint can name several problem areas.
Engine
While Driving, the vehicle lost power and stopped. Found out the timing chain went out/broken. This car only had 62,000. 2019 Kia Forte
Nov 28, 2025Steering
I took my 2019 Kia Forte LXS to a certified Kia dealership to have the mandatory anti-theft security upgrade performed (Campaign CS2312), which involves installing an ignition cylinder protector plate inside the steering column. Immediately after picking up the vehicle, multiple severe safety and electrical defects appeared. The engine is running very rough, sputters, and loses power especially going up hills, making it dangerous to drive. Additionally, the brake light main is now malfunctioning and fail to illuminate. - creating an immediate crash hazard. The radio and dashboard electronics are also cutting out intermittently. mileage is also not being calculated right. These dangerous…
Aug 4, 2026Power train
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at 70-75 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and the check engine warning light illuminated, causing the contact and her daughter to be stranded on the highway. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who replaced the spark plugs and ignition coils; however, the failure persisted. After allowing the vehicle to cool down, the contact restarted the vehicle and drove to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to Jiffy Lube, where the transmission fluid was changed; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where DTC P0730 was retrieved, indicating an Incorrect Gear Ratio, and the…
Oct 13, 2026 · 106,000 milesEngine
recommended engine replacement at 111,000 miles
Aug 20, 2026Electrical system
Power loss, engine failure. Will not start
Jun 4, 2026Engine and engine cooling
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Forte. The contact stated that after driving to the local store and turning off the vehicle, after returning to the vehicle, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The vehicle was diagnosed with a timing chain failure caused by low engine oil. The contact stated that prior to the failure, the vehicle had experienced excessive oil consumption and engine oil was constantly added to the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 124,000.
Oct 1, 2024 · 124,000 milesFuel/propulsion system
While driving, the Forward Collision Warning system activated unexpectedly without any apparent hazard or obstruction in front of my vehicle. Immediately after the warning appeared, the vehicle suddenly lost speed and became very slow to accelerate. I was unable to safely increase my speed while traveling on a busy roadway, creating a dangerous situation and nearly resulting in a collision with surrounding traffic. Due to the sudden loss of power and inability to accelerate normally, I activated my hazard lights and was forced to pull onto the shoulder of the road for my safety and the safety of other drivers. There were no visible obstacles, vehicles, or road conditions that appeared to…
May 29, 2026Engine and engine cooling
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at 70 MPH, the contact had exited when the oil and battery warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle rolled over to the side of the road. The contact exited the vehicle and, upon inspection, noticed that an excessive amount of oil had leaked onto the ground. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the drain plug had failed and the engine was damaged. The independent mechanic replaced the drain plug. However, the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was towed to the residence and had not been driven since. The contact had not experienced a failure in the past.…
Apr 27, 2026 · 86,000 miles
Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.
