Last updated: 2026-04-20

2023 KIA Forte Reliability Report
The 2023 KIA Forte scores 68/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 53 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
3
Complaints
53
Complaint Rate
4.3per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$451
Annual Fuel Cost
$1,750–$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 (12)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
- POWER TRAIN (7)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is 2 years after the 2022 facelift refresh.
- Year 5 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.
2023: This Model Year
2023 is 2 years after the 2022 facelift refresh.
Should You Buy the 2023 KIA Forte?
At 68/100, the 2023 KIA Forte lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2023 is 2 years after the 2022 facelift refresh.
Owners log 53 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 (12). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2024 KIA Forte, which scored 10 points higher. See also the 2022 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
- −Moderate recall count
- −STEERING: Several steering-related issues with the 2023 Kia Forte (12 complaints)
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (7 complaints)
Compare 2023 KIA Forte With

2023 Toyota Corolla
Reliability: 73/100

2023 Hyundai Elantra
Reliability: 75/100

2023 Honda Civic
Reliability: 74/100

2023 Nissan Sentra
Reliability: 80/100

2023 Mazda 3
Reliability: 78/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- STEERING (12)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2023 KIA Forte. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
4.3
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 14.6
Safety Incidents
8
Crashes
4
Fires
4
Injuries
1
Deaths
NHTSA 4/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 KIA Forte Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2023 KIA Forte. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
SUSPENSION
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Forte vehicles. The right front lower control arm may have been improperly welded, which can cause it to fail.
Consequence
Front lower control arm failure can cause a sudden loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Dealers will replace the right front lower control arm, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 17, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC306. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 23V-649.
SUSPENSION
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Forte vehicles. The right front lower control arm may have been improperly welded, which can cause it to fail.
Consequence
Front lower control arm failure can cause a sudden loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Dealers will replace the right front lower control arm, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 27, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC283.
STEERING
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Forte vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the front left steering knuckle may crack, which can result in a loss of steering control.
Consequence
A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the front left steering knuckle, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 12, 2023. Owner may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC259.
Buying a used 2023 KIA Forte? Check its history first
Every 2023 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
2023 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
26–34 MPG
Running cost: $2,200–$2,750/yr
Fuel + repair
22–30 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 2023 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) | 30 | 41 | 34 | $1,750 |
| Forte 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 28 | 39 | 32 | $1,850 |
| 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 2023 KIA Forte.
Test forward collision avoidance system for false activations
Inspect transmission for smooth shifting and check for any replacements
Check suspension components for unusual noises or wear
Verify door latches are secure and do not open unexpectedly
Inspect for any signs of engine misfire or rough running
Check for any visible signs of electrical system malfunctions
Ensure lane departure and assist features operate correctly
2023 KIA Forte Common Problems by Component
53 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
12 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several steering-related issues with the 2023 Kia Forte. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle pulling to the right, requiring constant correction to maintain a straight path, with some owners noting that the steering wheel tightens unexpectedly. Additionally, clunking sounds when turning, particularly at low speeds or when making left turns, are described. These issues are often reported at various mileage points, with some starting as early as 500 miles. Safety implications are significant, as two complaints involve crashes, one of which also involved a fire. Potential buyers should be aware of these steering-related concerns, especially since some owners report difficulty in obtaining timely repairs.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 KIA Forte report several electrical system issues, with complaints frequently mentioning dashboard lights malfunctioning and electrical components failing, such as backup cameras and headlights burning out at a high rate. Multiple owners describe safety concerns related to unintended braking and the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly while driving, with one incident leading to a crash. These issues often occur at varying mileages, with some reports starting as early as 44,000 miles. The symptoms include loss of control features like blinkers and gauges, as well as erratic behavior of the electronic parking brake, posing potential safety risks.
POWER TRAIN
7 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Kia Forte frequently report issues related to the power train, specifically concerning transmission and clutch failures. Common symptoms include unexpected loss of motive power and inability to engage gears, with some vehicles requiring multiple transmission replacements within the first 10,000 miles. Complaints often mention the vehicle becoming undriveable, and in some instances, the failure occurs without warning lights or prior indications, leading to potential safety risks such as coasting in neutral. Additionally, some owners report clutch pressure plate failures that result in grinding noises and blockage in traffic. These issues typically arise at varying mileages, starting as early as 6,000 miles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 KIA Forte report several concerning issues. Two complaints involve fires, one occurring after the vehicle was idle for 24 hours, and another starting from the undercarriage after getting stuck in mud. An additional complaint describes the vehicle shutting down unexpectedly at 40 miles per hour without warning lights or error codes, occurring at approximately 20,000 miles. Another owner reports an incident involving the Auto Emergency Braking system activating erroneously on the freeway, causing difficulty steering and vibrations when accelerating, which resulted in an injury. These reports highlight potential safety risks including fire hazards, sudden loss of power, and unexpected braking.
LANE DEPARTURE (4 complaints)
LANE DEPARTURE
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the Lane Keep Assist feature in the 2023 Kia Forte often causes the vehicle to veer unexpectedly, with some describing it pulling towards adjacent lanes or exits. Complaints frequently mention the system failing to maintain lane position, with one incident leading to a crash and injury when the vehicle merged into a guard rail. These issues are noted around mileage of 30,000 to 40,000. Safety implications include potential collisions due to unintended lane changes. Buyers should be aware of these patterns, particularly if considering a vehicle with similar mileage.
AIR BAGS (3 complaints)
AIR BAGS
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 KIA Forte report issues with airbag deployment during crashes. Complaints frequently mention that airbags fail to deploy, even in significant collisions, including side impacts at speeds of 45-50 mph. Two reports involve injuries, with one owner describing hitting their head on the B pillar due to the lack of airbag deployment. The incidents reported do not mention any prior warning lights or messages. These reports indicate potential safety risks, particularly in crash scenarios where airbags are expected to activate.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
3 complaintsOwners report that the 2023 KIA Forte experiences issues with the forward collision avoidance system. Common symptoms include the forward collision warning light remaining on and the system misdetecting vehicles, resulting in unnecessary emergency braking. Some owners describe the system identifying vehicles in adjacent lanes as if they are directly in front, leading to inappropriate braking. These issues typically begin around 20,000 miles or within the first two years of ownership. Safety concerns are noted, as sudden braking at high speeds could lead to rear-end collisions. Multiple owners have sought assistance from dealerships, with mixed responses regarding awareness and solutions.
STRUCTURE (3 complaints)
STRUCTURE
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 KIA Forte report issues with doors becoming unlatched while driving. Multiple complaints describe incidents where both the passenger and driver side doors opened despite being locked and fully closed, with warnings triggered as a result. These incidents occur at low speeds, approximately between 10-20 mph, and are not linked to any specific weather conditions or obstructions in the door frame. One complaint involves a crash, but it is related to external damage from another vehicle rather than the door issue. Used car buyers should note the potential safety risk of doors unexpectedly opening while the vehicle is in motion.
SUSPENSION (3 complaints)
SUSPENSION
3 complaintsOwners report issues with the suspension system of the 2023 KIA Forte, particularly involving the lower control arm, trailing arm, and potential coil and strut failures. Common symptoms include noises such as clicking and rattling, a floating sensation while driving, and scraping of the car's bottom over speed bumps. These issues often arise around 20,000 miles, with one complaint noting a complete collapse of the vehicle, leading to a disconnected tire and bent tie rod. Safety implications include a potential loss of control, as described by an owner whose vehicle collapsed on the road. Used car buyers should be aware of these suspension-related issues and the associated symptoms when considering this model.
ENGINE (2 complaints)
ENGINE
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 KIA Forte report engine issues, with symptoms including the check engine light activating, noticeable shaking, and rough running. One complaint specifies a cylinder misfire detected at around 6,000 miles. Another owner describes an engine-related fire occurring on the highway, attributed by fire personnel to a problem with the engine and fuel, which resulted in the vehicle catching fire in under three minutes. These reports suggest safety implications, particularly concerning potential fires, which are critical for prospective buyers to consider.
When Do 2023 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).
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 2023 KIA Forte reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 KIA Forte?
How many recalls does the 2023 KIA Forte have?
Is the 2023 KIA Forte expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2023 KIA Forte without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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.
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