2023 Kia Forte

63 complaints on file, page 1 of 4.

1. Filed Sep 28, 2026Failure Sep 23, 2026Dalton, GAService brakes

   While car was rolling in reverse, breaks got stiff and driver had to use excessive force to get car to stop. Battery warning came on when pushing hard on the breaks. Then got the car in park, reved the gas to make sure the car was on which it was. Drove it to a parking spot and the car was giving me signal shift to P. No accident occurred. Turned the car off. Car was driven home and all was fine. Vehicle was towed to Kia dealer and they kept it 5 days and could not find any codes in the system and said all was fine and released it back to us today. Told us to let them know if it happens again.

   NHTSA complaint 11767544
2. Filed Sep 21, 2026Failure Sep 21, 2026Lehi, UTWarnings, Blind spot detection

   Four times, my 2023 Kia forte has went into limp mode. Three times accelerating onto the freeway, the blindspot/anticollision (BCA) system reset. This put the vehicle in limp mode and it deaccelerated to 3 mph. I had to pull over and restart the car. The other time, I was turning right at an intersection. After the light turned green, the system reset again. I had the AGM battery replaced after the second time, but the BCA system continued to reset and the car went into limp mode. This is dangerous during driving, especially if there is no where to pull over. The car won't go more than three mph.

   NHTSA complaint 11765968
3. Filed Sep 6, 2026Failure Sep 5, 2026Ivydale, WVPower train, Steering, SuspensionCrash

   Unknown. During a basic collision Avoidance maneuver performed by myself on the highway at speed of aprox 60MPH the steering suddenly became non-responsive, resulting in my inability to maintain directional control and cause a collision. The vehicle continued traveling before coming to its final resting position. During this sequence, the driver-side front suspension assembly sustained a catastrophic separation before the impact The steering knuckle was no longer attached to the vehicle, the strut was broken, and the driver-side wheel/tire ultimately ended up underneath the vehicle when the vehicle finally come to a stop . During the event The driver-side axle shaft completely detached and somehow come out of the transaxle housing and was found a significant distance back along the roadway, a great distance back before the initial impact . indicating that it separated before the vehicle reached its final resting position. It is in my strongest opinion the maneuver itself could have potentially been cause of the catastrophic event. And is potentially why I could not maintain complete complete control of vehicle the whole time.

   NHTSA complaint 11762477
4. Filed Aug 24, 2026Failure Aug 24, 2026Prescott Valley, AZElectrical system, Unknown or other

   Electrical system failed while operating vehicle on major highway. All lights flashed, system shut off, power steering locked up.

   NHTSA complaint 11759219
5. Filed Aug 9, 2026Failure Aug 8, 2026Julian, CASuspension

   The right front lower control arm has completely broken/fractured during operation. Kia has previously issued safety recalls SC283 (NHTSA 23V649) and SC306 (NHTSA 24V244) for this exact vehicle model year due to improperly manufactured right front lower control arms that can crack and fail. My vehicle was manufactured in March 2023 (03/23), which is just prior to the official April 12, 2023 recall window. Because the component suffered the precise, catastrophic structural failure described in the federal recall campaigns, it is clear that defective parts were used in production earlier than Kia's current recall parameters account for. This is a severe safety hazard that causes an immediate loss of steering control and places occupants at extreme risk of a crash. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this out-of-window component failure and pressure Kia to expand the recall parameters to protect other owners. The vehicle was in a minor pothole incident six months ago but suffered no suspension failure at that time. This is a fresh, catastrophic fracture just discovered on the right front lower control arm. The fracture is clean, unoxidized, and brand new, proving it is a recent spontaneous material failure matching recalls SC283/SC306, not old accident damage.

   NHTSA complaint 11755764
6. Filed Aug 6, 2026Failure Jul 15, 2026Tarzana, CAUnknown or other

   The A/C compressor field coil assembly failed on my 2023 Kia Forte. The air conditioning system is completely inoperative. The vehicle is currently [at my residence / at the dealership - specify location] and the component is available for inspection upon request. 1 This is a documented issue. Kia issued Technical Service Bulletin #048 (Revision TSB_CLI048_R1, dated November 18, 2022) for 2019–2023 Kia Forte models, which specifically identifies a defective A/C compressor field coil assembly as the cause of air conditioning failure. The TSB provides diagnostic procedures to isolate an open field coil circuit and states that replacement of the complete compressor assembly is not required when only the field coil is defective. The failed A/C system creates a direct safety hazard because it prevents proper defogging and defrosting of the windshield. 2 On [date of incident, if applicable], while driving [on 101 / in traffic], the windshield began to fog heavily. With the A/C inoperative, I was unable to clear the windows quickly. This significantly reduced visibility and made it difficult to see other vehicles and road conditions. 3 Proper A/C function is essential for safe driving in humid or rainy conditions. Without it, the vehicle's defrost system does not work effectively, which can lead to a crash. 4 NO. The dealership (Van Nuys Kia) and Kia America were contacted but did not schedule an inspection. I am seeking resolution before paying for a repair that should be covered under goodwill for a known defect. 5 The A/C began blowing warm air gradually. No warning lamps or messages appeared on the dashboard. There were no prior symptoms before the system became completely inoperative.

   NHTSA complaint 11755162
7. Filed Jul 24, 2026Failure Jul 1, 202649,000 milesLenexa, KSEngine

   The contact owns a 2023 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made abnormal knocking sounds. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle later lost motive power while driving with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and it was determined that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that a week prior to the failure, the vehicle was taken to another dealer to determine the trade-in value, and no failures were found at the time. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 49,000.

   NHTSA complaint 11752655
8. Filed May 29, 2026Failure May 21, 2026Pittsburgh, PAAir bags, SteeringCrash1 injured

   I was driving home, on my way while driving I approached a curve on my way around the curve my vehicle continued to accelerate to the right as I was going around the curve. I tried to redirect the vehicle back to the left by trying to turn the steering wheel towards the left but I could not control the direction of the way the vehicle continued on. Still trying to turn the steering wheel back towards the left it kept to the right and ran off the road into a tree. Also once impact occurred i don’t remember if the airbags deployed because my head was laying flat on the steering wheel. Once the emergency services arrived I was accessed and removed from the vehicle and transported to the hospital emergency. There were no warning lights or messages what so ever ahead of the accident. A claim with the insurance was filed and also a complaint with the Kia manufacturer was filed. At this time no one has accessed the damages of the vehicle, State Farm has the vehicle at this time.

   NHTSA complaint 11740816
9. Filed May 26, 2026Failure May 24, 2026Coldwater, MIAir bagsCrash

   I was driving in a road, when a female deer appeared out of the trees and bushes from the right shoulder of the road. I tried not to hit it but but the deer got in my way. I hit the deer and quickly moved over to the right shoulder. The whole front right of the vehicle was destroyed and the airbags did not open. Sheriff arrived and saw the vehicle, the vehicles debri and the deer which had to be put down. He asked for the vehicles registration and did a report of the accident. The Sheriff then called a local tow company who arrived in a couple of minutes and towed the vehicle to their garage/shop.

   NHTSA complaint 11740134
10. Filed Apr 20, 2026Failure Mar 6, 2026Katy, TXLatch

    The contact owns a 2023 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while leaving Walmart and approaching the vehicle, the contact became aware that another driver with a similar vehicle was able to unlock her vehicle with the other driver’s key fob on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. The lights flashed, alerting the contact that the vehicle was unlocked. No warning lights were illuminated prior to the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.

    NHTSA complaint 11732467
11. Filed Mar 30, 2026Failure Jun 1, 2025Baton Rouge, LAElectrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system

    I am reporting a serious and ongoing safety issue involving my 2023 Kia Forte GT. The vehicle has experienced persistent mechanical problems, including a check engine light and multiple diagnostic trouble codes, including P0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold – Bank 1), P0300 (random/multiple cylinder misfire), P0304 (cylinder 4 misfire), and P0301 (cylinder 1 misfire). These codes have appeared as stored, pending, and permanent, indicating ongoing and unresolved engine and emissions system issues. In addition to these mechanical problems, the vehicle is emitting strong and concerning chemical fumes into the cabin during operation. These fumes are noticeable while driving and create a hazardous environment for occupants, raising concerns of toxic exposure and making the vehicle unsafe to operate. The vehicle also exhibits drivability issues, including jerking and performance irregularities when accelerating. Despite multiple attempts to have the vehicle diagnosed and repaired under warranty at authorized Kia dealerships, including All Star Kia East and All Star Kia Seigen Lane, the dealerships have refused to properly diagnose or repair the vehicle. I have been informed that my vehicle or account is “flagged in all systems,” and service has been denied on that basis. The refusal to address an emissions-related defect, combined with active misfires and the presence of chemical fumes entering the cabin, presents a serious safety risk. I am requesting that this issue be investigated as a potential safety defect affecting this vehicle.

    NHTSA complaint 11727865
12. Filed Mar 24, 2026Failure Dec 26, 2025Waynesville, OHEngine, Unknown or otherFire

    My son, [XXX] , has opened a complaint/Case #XXX with Kia. His 2023 KIA Forte had been idle for at least 24 hours when the engine compartment caught fire. He became aware of this when the Fire Department knocked on his apartment door around 4:00 PM 12/26/25 and said they were evacuating the building because a car was on fire. He went outside and was shocked, to say the least, that it was his car. The Fire Department had taken off the hood to extinguish the fire. He removed his belongings once the fire was out. He contacted his insurance company but since it was a holiday weekend, he did not get a call back until 12/29/25. He then filed a claim with State Farm Insurance which was required to get his car towed to a Kia repair location. On 1/9/25, [XXX] [XXX] t Castrucci Auto Shop in [XXX] [XXX] he car was totaled. I talked with [XXX] who was [XXX] between the auto shop and State Farm, told me that once the repair exceeded the value of the car, he was instructed by State Farm it was totaled and there was no need to continue. On or around 3/4/26, Kia sent engineers to assess the damaged vehicle. Kia determined it was an engine fire and the cause was undetermined due to the condition of the engine department. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11726670
13. Filed Mar 14, 2026Failure Mar 14, 2026Central City, KYUnknown or otherFire

    Backing out of a driveway that had a mud hole. Car got turned and stuck in the mud. We were trying to push it out and then it started smoking under the drivers tires and then we heard a pop. Next thing the undercarriage is on fire and we got away. Withing minutes the whole car was engulfed in flames. UNKNOWN MODERATE ONLY CAUSE WE WERE STUCK AND COULD EXIT THE VEHICLE IN A TIMELY MANNER NO NO

    NHTSA complaint 11724342
14. Filed Feb 18, 2026Failure Jan 1, 2026Victorville, CAAir bagsCrash1 injured

    My son was in a car accident in my car January 1 at none of the Air bags went off. Not one there is a police report and I have pictures. Its a 2023 kia forte

    NHTSA complaint 11718865
15. Filed Jan 7, 2026Failure Jan 1, 2026Columbia, SCSteering, Unknown or otherCrash

    Unknown Concerning the front passenger steering component. Carfax showed prior accident with minor damage to the front passenger bumper. I purchased the car not long ago and and was hit in the same exact spot. When I looked up the VIN for more information online I came across the safety issue with some other 2023 forte. I'm concerned that my vehicle could possibly have the same issue though it's not showing up right now under recall.

    NHTSA complaint 11709300
16. Filed Dec 30, 2025Failure Dec 29, 2025Mankato, MNElectrical system

    My low beam headlights seem to burn out at an unusually high rate. Multiple times per year, and this is much higher than any other vehicle that I've owned. I believe there may be some type of electrical issue.

    NHTSA complaint 11707776
17. Filed Dec 4, 2025Failure Oct 3, 2023Gallatin, TNSteering, Body, Vehicle speed controlCrashFire1 killed

    My father was in a fatal vehicle accident in which the car was going very fast and then he crashed into a building. The car then started on fire. The black box was unable to be recovered to check car function. There were no medical findings

    NHTSA complaint 11703022
18. Filed Oct 6, 2025Failure Oct 6, 2025Secane, PAElectrical system, Exterior lighting, Blind spot detection

    Electrical issues since 44K miles I’m at 50 K miles. I’ve complained multiple times and they kept saying electrician wasn’t available. Then they lie about it being a waitlist for a loaner car. All the lights on the dashboard goes on and all the dealership couldn’t diagnose the problem. The second time the check engine lights went out the back up camera. They said it was the back up camera the backup camera was replaced the backup camera now messes up all the time and does not cut on when backing up randomly cut on when driving Kia issue was flashing lights, but they decided to worry about the check engine light, which was the careless converter, they fixed the careless converter And didn’t fix the flashing lights problem. They tried to say the car electrical reason was physical damage, which was false and now the electrical problems are getting worse the gear shifter license to work on the PRND the right brake light in the front and back goes in and out. I don’t know what the mileage is while driving I got a ticket from the cops because of that, the mileage randomly changes and I never know how much gas is in the car when I put in gas.

    NHTSA complaint 11691550
19. Filed Sep 29, 2025Failure Sep 13, 202525,000 milesNorwood, MAPower train

    The contact owns a 2023 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to be restarted. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 25,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11690318
20. Filed Aug 27, 2025Failure Aug 5, 2025Newton, NHElectrical system, Service brakes

    Summary: Unintended full brake engagement at highway speeds caused by electronic parking brake/Auto Hold button defect. Extreme risk of collision. Details: On [XXX], my wife was driving our 2023 Kia Forte GT Line when the Auto Hold and electronic parking brake system malfunctioned. The system fully engaged the brakes without warning while traveling at highway speed, scraping the brake rotors and creating an immediate risk of being rear-ended. This occurred multiple times. The following day ([XXX], the brake pedal would not depress at all, rendering the vehicle undrivable. The dealership (McFarland Kia, North Hampton, NH) diagnosed “a sticky substance” inside the electronic parking brake button, located next to the cupholder. There have never been any liquid spills in this vehicle. The more likely cause is a combination of factory lubrication and normal dust/debris accumulation over time. If such a small amount of dust or residue can trigger unintended full braking while driving, it is a dangerous design flaw that poses a life-threatening hazard to drivers and passengers. The vehicle was repaired after I paid $284.99 out-of-pocket, but I am pursuing reimbursement through my Zurich Vehicle Service Contract. I have also requested an independent third-party brake and rotor inspection, as this defect may have caused further damage. Why this is a safety issue: Sudden, uncommanded braking at highway speeds can cause high-speed rear-end collisions. The defect can occur without visible warning and without any driver action. The defect can be triggered by minimal non-liquid debris, which is unavoidable over the life of a vehicle. I am requesting NHTSA investigate whether this is an isolated case or part of a larger design defect in the Kia Forte’s electronic parking brake/Auto Hold system. This condition should not be possible in a vehicle that meets federal safety standards. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11683514