Last updated: 2026-04-20

2022 KIA Forte Reliability Report
The 2022 KIA Forte scores 75/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 22 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
1
Complaints
22
Complaint Rate
2.3per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$451
Annual Fuel Cost
$1,700–$2,300
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- STEERING (3)
- ENGINE (3)
- POWER TRAIN (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2022 is 1 year after the 2022 facelift refresh.
- Year 4 in the Third generation (BD) (2019–2024).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 3rd generation Forte (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2019: Third generation (BD) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2021: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2022: This Model Year
2022 is 1 year after the 2022 facelift refresh.
Should You Buy the 2022 KIA Forte?
At 75/100, the 2022 KIA Forte lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2022 is 1 year after the 2022 facelift refresh.
Owners log 22 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to steering (3). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2023 KIA Forte, which scored 7 points lower. See also the 2021 KIA Forte for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$75 cheaper to maintain than avg compact cars
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (9%)
Cons
- −STEERING issues reported (3 complaints)
- −ENGINE: Check engine light and potential engine damage (3 complaints)
Compare 2022 KIA Forte With

2022 Toyota Corolla
Reliability: 82/100

2022 Hyundai Elantra
Reliability: 74/100

2022 Honda Civic
Reliability: 66/100

2022 Nissan Sentra
Reliability: 77/100

2022 Mazda 3
Reliability: 78/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- STEERING (3)
- ENGINE (3)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2022 KIA Forte carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
2.3
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 17.9
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
1
Fires
2
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 4/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2022 KIA Forte Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2022 KIA Forte. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
STEERING
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.
Consequence
Loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
Buying a used 2022 KIA Forte? Check its history first
Every 2022 KIA Forte has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2022 KIA Forte NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 10.7%
Safety Technologies
KIA ForteRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$451
vs $526 avg for compact cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
9%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
26–35 MPG
Running cost: $2,150–$2,750/yr
Fuel + repair
22–31 city / 31–41 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2022 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forte FE 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 31 | 41 | 35 | $1,700 |
| Forte 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 29 | 39 | 33 | $1,800 |
| Forte 1.6L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM-S7) | 27 | 35 | 30 | $2,000 |
| Forte 1.6L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 22 | 31 | 26 | $2,300 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2022 KIA Forte.
Inspect steering for inconsistent tension and alignment issues
Check for transmission slipping or jerking during test drive
Verify engine oil for metal particles indicating potential damage
Test air conditioning for functionality and check condenser for damage
Ensure all warning lights are off during operation, especially check engine light
Confirm presence of a spare tire or plan for roadside assistance
Inspect headlights for adequate illumination at night
2022 KIA Forte Common Problems by Component
22 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 KIA Forte report issues with steering, including inconsistent tension and alignment problems, typically beginning around 21,000 miles. Symptoms include the steering wheel unpredictably loosening and tightening, particularly at highway speeds, leading to difficulty maintaining control. One owner reports a crash attributed to steering malfunction post-recall repair. Another owner describes a fractured control arm causing suspension misalignment and a potential loss-of-control risk, though no impact was reported. These issues suggest potential safety implications, including crashes and loss of control, that prospective buyers should consider.
ENGINE
3 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Kia Forte report issues related to the engine, particularly involving the check engine light and potential engine damage. Complaints frequently mention the check engine light illuminating intermittently, with some owners experiencing hesitation during acceleration followed by a sudden surge. One owner describes finding metal particles in the oil at approximately 76,000 miles, suggesting possible engine damage. Another report indicates that a dealership advised driving until engine seizure, which raises potential safety concerns. These issues typically arise within the first few years of ownership, with mileage around 76,000 being noted in one case.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2022 KIA Forte report a few distinct issues. One complaint describes the ability to remove the ignition key while the vehicle is still in drive, leading to unintended vehicle movement, which could pose a safety risk. Another owner notes the absence of a spare tire, expressing concern over its potential impact on safety during emergencies. Additionally, an air conditioning problem is reported, where a structural design flaw allegedly allows road debris to damage the AC condenser, leading to expensive repairs not covered under warranty. These issues are reported shortly after purchase, indicating they may occur within the first year of ownership.
POWER TRAIN (2 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
2 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Kia Forte report recurring transmission issues, with symptoms including failure to shift into the intended gear, jerking motions, and stalling upon acceleration. These problems often occur without any warning lights initially, though some owners later see the check engine light. Complaints frequently mention these issues emerging around 32,000 miles or within the first year of ownership. Safety concerns are noted, as one owner describes the vehicle immobilizing in traffic due to overheating, posing a potential risk of collision. Prospective buyers should be aware of these transmission-related issues and the need for potential repairs.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Kia Forte report issues related to engine failure and cooling system problems. Complaints frequently mention vehicles losing power or stalling, often accompanied by illuminated warning lights, such as oil pressure and high engine temperature. Engine failures are noted at relatively low mileages, around 608 to 21,840 miles, with causes including missing oil drain plugs and faulty engine pulley bolts leading to overheating. These issues result in significant engine damage necessitating engine replacement and pose safety risks due to sudden loss of motive power while driving. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these potential problems and check for any related repairs or service history.
SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintThe front driver side door is ‘popping’ open while driving. In addition, the seatbelt randomly releases while driving.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintMy car body material looks like a baby toy I have a bas accient and
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintSafety-relatedThat happens on the bridge on nW 7 st
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaintThe OEM projector halogen headlights on the 2022 Kia Forte provide insufficient illumination for safe nighttime operation. On unlit or poorly lit roads, the low-beam distance is inadequate to identify road hazards, pedestrians, or signage in time to react at standard posted speeds (45+ mph). This creates a "dead zone" where the driver is effectively over-driving their headlights. This is a known design deficiency reflected in the IIHS "Poor" safety rating for this model. The lack of light throw creates an unreasonable risk of collision. High beams offer a marginal improvement in angle but do not resolve the primary visibility failure. I am requesting an investigation into the headlight assembly design and a potential recall or dealer-installed remedy to meet acceptable safety visibility standards. For reference, my electric scooter (segway max g3) is triple the brightness of my automobile!
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedAir bags did not deploy in a front/side impact crash. Driver slid on ice and slush, went off the road and hit a tree. The car is currently being evaluated by the service center and insurance company. No sensors or warnings went off.
When Do 2022 KIA Forte Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst KIA Forte Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best KIA Forte Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best KIA Forte year is 2024 with a reliability score of 78/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2020 (76/100) and 2022 (75/100).
2024
2020
2022
(Current Model)
KIA Forte Years to Avoid
The worst KIA Forte year is 2018 with a score of 66/100, primarily due to engine (38) issues.
KIA Forte Reliability Score Trend
KIA Forte reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 72/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 78/100 | Good |
KIA Forte Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2022 KIA Forte reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2022 KIA Forte?
How many recalls does the 2022 KIA Forte have?
Is the 2022 KIA Forte expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2022 KIA Forte without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the KIA Forte.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
Browse More KIA Models

KIA Carnival
Score: 88/100

KIA EV6
Score: 69/100

KIA K5
Score: 79/100

KIA Sedona
Score: 88/100

KIA Sorento
Score: 75/100

KIA Soul
Score: 85/100
Browse More 2022 Vehicles

2022 Lexus RX
Score: 90/100

2022 Lexus ES
Score: 88/100

2022 Mazda CX-5
Score: 87/100

2022 Toyota Camry
Score: 84/100

2022 Mazda 5
Score: 83/100

2022 Lexus IS
Score: 83/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue