2020 KIA Forte

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Unknown or other26
2. Engine20
3. Power train16
4. Electrical system11
5. Forward collision avoidance6
6. Air bags5
7. Vehicle speed control4
8. Lane departure3
9. Fuel/propulsion system3
10. Steering3

Latest complaints

• Oct 8, 2026VA
  Engine · Forward collision avoidance › Warnings
  During a day trip on 9/19/26 my 2020 Kia Forte (purchased new and well maintained) lost power and several of the dash board lights came on including check engine, traction/stability control, and collision alerts. The car entered what I was told is "limp mode". I had the car towed home and after one…

  During a day trip on 9/19/26 my 2020 Kia Forte (purchased new and well maintained) lost power and several of the dash board lights came on including check engine, traction/stability control, and collision alerts. The car entered what I was told is "limp mode". I had the car towed home and after one shop misdiagnosed the problem I had it towed to the Kia dealership where purchased. I was told the engine had code p0017. I was sent a document that the "phaser sheared off p0017 exhaust cam and cvvd gear timing off-recommend long block-cvvd replacement may still have engine damaged after replacement" with a price of $9053.39 attached. Kia service manager is supposed to be seeing about assistance for repair as it is cost prohibitive and I have proof of proper maintenance however I am not receiving info on process unless I reach out. Car has been in Kia possession since 9/24/26.

• Oct 6, 2026SD
  Engine
  My engine is failing due to excessive oil consumption despite having proof of regular oil changes and maintenance. My car has been inspected, and the dealer has stated this is due to a known manufacture defect. My safety and others are at risk because my car stalls when I decrease speed and I…

  My engine is failing due to excessive oil consumption despite having proof of regular oil changes and maintenance. My car has been inspected, and the dealer has stated this is due to a known manufacture defect. My safety and others are at risk because my car stalls when I decrease speed and I cannot accelerate fast enough to get up to the speed limit creating a risk anytime the speed limit changes or when I am using an on ramp to get onto an interstate or highway. Kia dealer has confirmed the issue and is currently working on an estimate for a new engine. The Kia dealer is the manufacturer of my vehicle. The warning sign before this happened was my car stalled a couple times, then the check engine light came on within 10 miles. I then took it in to get looked at where the Kia dealer diagnosed the issue as the known manufacturer defect with the engine burning oil too quickly. These issues first appeared on August 12, 2026. I have attempted to get Kia corporate to assist with repairs through a Goodwill Request due to the safety issues with driving my vehicle in its current condition, to no fault of my own. Kia denied my Goodwill request. That case number is 26467063.

• Sep 21, 2026IN
  Engine

  The engine has failed in this vehicle just like it has in other 2.0L kia vehicles 2020-2026. The piston rings have failed and the pistons have all pitted or developed holes in them just like in the recall 25V-099/kia safety recall SC336

• Sep 9, 2026MN
  Unknown or other

  The infotainment screen is de-laminating.

• Aug 25, 2026NC109,900 mi
  Air bags
  The contact owns a 2020 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bags warning light illuminated and then went off. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the air bag warning light was again illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed…

  The contact owns a 2020 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bags warning light illuminated and then went off. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the air bag warning light was again illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 109,900.

• Aug 23, 2026IL
  Engine

  Engine burning excessive oil over a quart in 1000 miles. Catalytic converter code P0420 because of the excessive oil burning. Oil was always changed within the specified dealer milage range.

• Aug 20, 2026OH
  Engine · Power train · Unknown or other
  I experienced a check engine light and had the vehicle diagnosed with codes P0017 and P0014. The vehicle was taken to a Kia dealership, where the technician found that the exhaust camshaft was free-spinning without the phaser and that the pin connecting the two had sheared. The dealership replaced…

  I experienced a check engine light and had the vehicle diagnosed with codes P0017 and P0014. The vehicle was taken to a Kia dealership, where the technician found that the exhaust camshaft was free-spinning without the phaser and that the pin connecting the two had sheared. The dealership replaced the exhaust camshaft and phaser and released the vehicle as repaired and operating normally. Less than 24 hours after pickup, the check engine light returned during normal driving. While returning the vehicle to the dealership as instructed, the engine lost oil pressure and stalled three times. One stall occurred after exiting the highway and left the vehicle disabled in a high-traffic intersection, creating a serious safety hazard. The vehicle was returned to the Kia dealership and remains available for inspection. Subsequent examination reportedly found metal debris in the engine/oil pan and a possible restriction of engine oil flow. The exact cause of the sudden oil-pressure loss has not yet been definitively explained. The failure occurred immediately following a dealership repair involving a physically sheared internal engine component.

• Jul 8, 2026OR
  Engine · Forward collision avoidance › Warnings
  2020 Kia Forte, 2.0L 14F engine, 109,000 miles: On July 3.2026 "check engine" light came on. Drove to local auto parts store to have code downloaded, P0017 cam position sensor. Car was performing fine, except for engine light. Drove car to Kia dealership. While driving, warning light for "front…

  2020 Kia Forte, 2.0L 14F engine, 109,000 miles: On July 3.2026 "check engine" light came on. Drove to local auto parts store to have code downloaded, P0017 cam position sensor. Car was performing fine, except for engine light. Drove car to Kia dealership. While driving, warning light for "front collision system came on and car began performing erratically. Left car at dealership for diagnostics. Yesterday received call from dealer, stating that engine needed total replacement due to "lack of oil". Quoted repair cost estimated at approximately $8,000. Car has been regularly serviced, including oil and filter changes per handbook. I have all records for the services. The were no indications of low oil pressure or engine overheating, no warning lights, all gauge readings displayed normal ranges. This same car had a failed transmission replaced approximately 2 years ago, which was covered by an extended warranty related to a recall. There have been 2 engine failure recalls as a result of 2 class action lawsuits for Kia cars with this same engine failure up through the 2019 model years, providing new engines and/or extended warrantees, however, this does not applicable to 2020 and newer models, even though it's the same exact same engine model with the exact issue causing the failure. Engine failure in traffic condions can obviously lead to immediate safety issues. I currently have a call into the Kia customer service/complaint department, but no resolution offerred to date.

• Jun 25, 2026OH103,000 mi
  Engine and engine cooling
  The contact owns a 2020 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. There was no warning light illuminated. The failure had occurred while the contact was driving on a major highway. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with…

  The contact owns a 2020 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine seized. There was no warning light illuminated. The failure had occurred while the contact was driving on a major highway. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that there was no oil in the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the failure was not covered under an unknown recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000.

• Jun 10, 2026AL
  Steering

  Steering wheel is turning completely around and made a noise. I noticed my steering wheel is loose it has been like that for time. But yesterday was the first time it turned completely around were I could not control it.

• Jun 1, 2026PA
  Engine
  Why is KIA still legally allowed to sell defective, death traps? Why is it ok for the service department and KIA themselves to tell me….its ok to drive unless the engine light is blinking, smoking in a car know to catch fire…..ok? Why is it ok to let them continue to sell cars under active engine…

  Why is KIA still legally allowed to sell defective, death traps? Why is it ok for the service department and KIA themselves to tell me….its ok to drive unless the engine light is blinking, smoking in a car know to catch fire…..ok? Why is it ok to let them continue to sell cars under active engine fire campaigns, only to “replace it with the same junk engine” an ok remedy. Quit letting these companies take advantage of people because they created a multi billion dollar defective product, they should bite the cost and be bankrupt, I mean it’s 2025 and they are still making combustible cars, the right thing to do? 2020 Kia forte gt t1.6

• May 21, 2026PA
  Engine
  Bought the car 8 months ago from a Kia dealer. It is now pulling the same engine codes, of the infamous recalled Kia engines. After having diagnostics done at a different Kia then I had bought and had oil changed. They told me the engine and turbo was full of metal shavings and the rods were bad. I…

  Bought the car 8 months ago from a Kia dealer. It is now pulling the same engine codes, of the infamous recalled Kia engines. After having diagnostics done at a different Kia then I had bought and had oil changed. They told me the engine and turbo was full of metal shavings and the rods were bad. I pad $10,900 for the car $15,000 to fix, they knowingly sold me a totaled car. I’m sure records reflect they took that car as a trade I knowing the engine was bad (they never checked the oil?). There were 90,000 forte sold in the US, best estimate I could find on the gt line was 4-5 thousand. All GT models do not have the turbo engine. So safe to assume that number is way lower. They know this is a manufacturing defect, and this model engine wasn’t recalled because the numbers aren’t not there. I’m sure these 2,500 or less turbo engines were manufactured in the same facility, same workers and process as the other 2020 forte recalls. The car is smoking and I’m being told “it’s ok to drive unless the engine light is flashing” which I’ll assume is before it catches fire, so I have to worry about that while not being under recall? This is a kid, who could catch on fire, would like to not go there

• May 15, 2026MI200,000 mi
  Power train
  The contact leased a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle began to chug. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed as needing a transmission replacement. The vehicle was repaired. The contact eventually purchased the vehicle. After the purchase…

  The contact leased a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle began to chug. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed as needing a transmission replacement. The vehicle was repaired. The contact eventually purchased the vehicle. After the purchase, the failure recurred. While driving, the vehicle began to chug without warning. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was called, but there was no response. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

• May 8, 2026IN
  Engine
  While driving, the vehicle suddenly began knocking severely, smoking, leaking oil, and then shut off unexpectedly without adequate warning. This created a serious safety hazard and near fire risk. The engine assembly failed catastrophically. Dealership inspection documented: connecting rod…

  While driving, the vehicle suddenly began knocking severely, smoking, leaking oil, and then shut off unexpectedly without adequate warning. This created a serious safety hazard and near fire risk. The engine assembly failed catastrophically. Dealership inspection documented: connecting rod punctured engine block bearing material found in oil pan broken piston components in oil pan oil leakage underneath engine complete engine seizure/failure The dealership confirmed and documented the failure and replaced the engine assembly. Repair records and failed components should still be available for inspection through the dealership. My safety and the safety of others were placed at risk because the vehicle suddenly lost power while driving. Oil leaked from the damaged engine and the engine compartment began smoking. The engine could have caught fire or caused an accident due to sudden loss of power. There were no adequate warning indicators before failure. No meaningful oil-pressure or low-oil warning appeared until the vehicle was already smoking and severely damaged. This failure closely mirrors known Kia engine defect investigations and Recall Campaign SC209 / NHTSA Recall 21V259000 involving: connecting rod bearing damage piston oil ring defects excessive oil consumption engine seizure engine stall fire risk Although my VIN is not currently included in the recall population, the documented failure symptoms are substantially similar. I also report that another Kia vehicle in my household, a 2017 Kia Sorento, experienced a separate rod-bearing-related engine seizure despite proper maintenance and documented oil changes. The connecting rod blew a hole through the engine block, causing oil leakage and heavy smoke while driving. The vehicle could have caught fire or exploded, placing my life and others at serious risk due to sudden engine failure without adequate warning. Engine replaced under warranty; concerned for safety after 2 similar Kia failures.

• Apr 21, 2026OH
  Power train
  I am reporting a transmission failure in my 2020 Kia Forte with approximately 54,000 miles. The vehicle experienced a sudden and complete transmission failure on March 19, 2026, on the highway from Cleveland to Cincinnati. after being owned for less than seven months. The vehicle is now at a…

  I am reporting a transmission failure in my 2020 Kia Forte with approximately 54,000 miles. The vehicle experienced a sudden and complete transmission failure on March 19, 2026, on the highway from Cleveland to Cincinnati. after being owned for less than seven months. The vehicle is now at a dealership 2.5 hours away, requiring a full transmission replacement. This appears to be a premature failure and not consistent with normal wear and tear for a vehicle with this mileage. I am aware of a Technical Service Bulletin issued by Kia regarding IVT transmission issues in 2019–2021 Kia Forte models, which may be related to this failure. As well as legal investigations and lawsuits regarding said transmission models. Given the safety implications and potential for loss of power while driving, I am submitting this complaint for review.

• Mar 22, 2026FLFire
  Unknown or other
  While driving a 2020 Kia Forte on the expressway at normal speed, the vehicle was operating normally with no prior warning lights or known issues. Suddenly, the brakes began to feel weak, as if they were failing. Immediately after, a popping sound was heard from the vehicle, followed by smoke…

  While driving a 2020 Kia Forte on the expressway at normal speed, the vehicle was operating normally with no prior warning lights or known issues. Suddenly, the brakes began to feel weak, as if they were failing. Immediately after, a popping sound was heard from the vehicle, followed by smoke coming from the side/underneath area. Within moments, the smoke intensified and the vehicle caught fire. The driver pulled over to the side of the road as quickly as possible. The fire spread rapidly, and within approximately 1–2 minutes the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. There were no prior warning indicators, messages, or symptoms before the incident. The cause of the fire is currently unknown. The vehicle is available for inspection by insurance or manufacturer if needed. The incident created an immediate safety hazard due to loss of braking performance and rapid fire spread while driving at highway speed.

• Mar 19, 2026PA
  Tires
  Two sets of Kumho Solus TA 31's (195/65 R15 91T) experienced rapid tread wear issues. The problem and safety issue has been confirmed by Fred Beans Kia of Mechanicsburg, PA, but with hassles to do so. I believe this matter actually effects consumers nationwide, which leads to additional high…

  Two sets of Kumho Solus TA 31's (195/65 R15 91T) experienced rapid tread wear issues. The problem and safety issue has been confirmed by Fred Beans Kia of Mechanicsburg, PA, but with hassles to do so. I believe this matter actually effects consumers nationwide, which leads to additional high replacement costs as a result of product quality. Consumers are effected by not just the manufacturer, but by those who knowingly sell & promote the products, such as dealerships like Fred Beans, while aware of the defects or who should know about the defects yet fail to take adequate measures to properly rectify the situation or warn consumers. Kumho Tire has been involved in many lawsuits, primarily related to tire defects which caused serious injuries & multi-million jury award and even trademark infringement where tires are allegedly being falsely marketed & sold as new. I believe Kumho is engaging in breach of warranty where the product they sell fails to meet promised quality or performance standards, while engaging in false advertising that misleads the consumer. They engage in lies in their marketing. In addition, there is negligence with Kumho where the manufacturer fails to exercise reasonable care during production. In addition, there is strict liability where the manufacturer should be held accountable for producing an inherently dangerous product. This has also been outlined in lawsuits & ongoing legal challenges faced by Kumho Tire over product quality. Dealership service managers even deny there is a problem, claim it's normal, and say they can't do anything, unless pressed or are caught in a lie. It appears dealerships, sellers of tires & Kumho are all involved in a scheme that creates additional high costs for consumers to properly resolve the problems. Especially since it's a hassle for people to file complaints or time consuming & monetarily challenging for most to fight the battle with dealerships like Fred Beans, or tire manufacturers, like Kumho.

• Feb 11, 2026TXCrash1 injury
  Air bags

  I was driving a vehicle two cars ahead did and illegal turn the car behind it stopped the truck behind them stopped I stopped behind the truck the car behind me did not stop and slammed me into the back of the truck in my airbags did not deploy

• Feb 11, 2026IN55,000 miCrash1 injury
  Air bags
  The contact owns a 2020 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH on a bend in the highway, a deer jumped over the barrier and landed on the top of the contact's front windshield. The contact stated that she was knocked unconscious due to the impact. The driver’s and passenger’s side…

  The contact owns a 2020 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH on a bend in the highway, a deer jumped over the barrier and landed on the top of the contact's front windshield. The contact stated that she was knocked unconscious due to the impact. The driver’s and passenger’s side air bags did not deploy. The contact was strapped in the driver's seat when she regained consciousness. The contact was unsure whether there was a warning light illuminated. The state police were called to the scene of the accident. Days later, after the accident, the contact went to Urgent Care. However, when the contact explained that she was unconscious, the contact was referred to the hospital. The contact went to the hospital, was informed that there were no bone fractures, and was referred to her personal medical provider. The contact sustained a bruise from the seat belt on her left shoulder; glass shards were embedded in the right forearm. The contact stated that from the impact, the torso slammed into the front windshield. The vehicle was towed to a towing yard, and then the insurance company towed the vehicle to a collision center. The insurance company was pending an investigation. The contact had not released the vehicle. The contact was unaware of all the facts of the accident. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.

• Nov 13, 2025TX
  Electrical system · Engine · Forward collision avoidance › Warnings

  The crankshaft position sensor keeps going bad and it make the forward collision trigger and it loses power and the dash stops working and causes the car to shut off

• Sep 28, 2025PR
  Unknown or other

  Trunk open alone. Also trunk open when driver door open.

• Sep 18, 2025CA
  Unknown or other

  Equipment premature failure. Dashboard screen bubbling and separation. Beyond 36 months warranty but early failure 2020 vehicle with 28,000 miles

• Sep 12, 2025MO
  Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Lane departure › Assist
  The lane assist malfunction and periodically jerks. Very unsafe I no longer use this feature . To keep control of the vehicle. I never got it inspected. As the lane assist was in use and it would jerk it would alert me of a lane departure . I mention this to include every known problem I have…

  The lane assist malfunction and periodically jerks. Very unsafe I no longer use this feature . To keep control of the vehicle. I never got it inspected. As the lane assist was in use and it would jerk it would alert me of a lane departure . I mention this to include every known problem I have experienced with the vehicle. The problem That brought me here. Is my engine light came on today. Leading up to this. I have had oil leaks since I've owned the car. Im adding oil in between oil changes due to it being low. In the beginning it was a hint of smell of gas in the oil. I was informed to do more frequent oil changes. Over time the smell of gas grew stronger . No Indication to a problem then. Now the smell of gas is prominent in the oil. When the dip stick is checked its always needing more oil and smells of gas and has blackness like burning in the oil. Now there's a check engine light on. And everything I looked up says to discontinue driving the car. I am having a mechanic look at it with a code reader.

• Aug 21, 2025AL
  Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
  I own a 2020 Kia Forte LXS with approximately 136,000 miles. The check engine light came on with code P0420 (“catalyst system efficiency below threshold”), and an Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers location confirmed the catalytic converter is failing. The back pressure was measured and is within…

  I own a 2020 Kia Forte LXS with approximately 136,000 miles. The check engine light came on with code P0420 (“catalyst system efficiency below threshold”), and an Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers location confirmed the catalytic converter is failing. The back pressure was measured and is within spec but slightly elevated, showing the part is deteriorating. I was also told my O2 sensors are burned due to the failing catalytic converter. This failure affects drivability and safety: the vehicle sometimes struggles on acceleration and hills, and I feel vibrations through the gas pedal. Because I commute 50 miles each way to work on the interstate, sudden loss of power would put me at risk in high-speed traffic. I have learned Kia and Hyundai vehicles from other years/models (including the Forte) have had recalls and extended warranties for premature catalytic converter failure and excessive oil consumption, but Kia has not yet extended coverage to the 2020 Forte. This appears to be the same issue. The vehicle has been inspected by Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, and the quoted cost for replacement is $3,000–$3,600. This should be investigated for potential recall or warranty extension to include the 2020 model year.

• Aug 10, 2025PA
  Unknown or other
  Kia is lying to a judge in Lancaster county PA and federal court by stating I did not opt out of class action when they know I opted out end of 2023. Kia also knows these cars are still being stolen and have taken no action to prevent thefts or damage to vehicles. The "upgrade" does not work.…

  Kia is lying to a judge in Lancaster county PA and federal court by stating I did not opt out of class action when they know I opted out end of 2023. Kia also knows these cars are still being stolen and have taken no action to prevent thefts or damage to vehicles. The "upgrade" does not work. My car sustained 7000.00 of damage in May 2025 and had the "upgrade" installed. On the same night, the same people stole multiple other kias and caused severe damage to numerous other vehicles within a 20 mile radius. My report was made to pa state police. The only reason why they didnt actually steal my car was because on same night they tried to also steal my neighbors sorrento at same time. When they attacked her car, her alarm went off and the group fled in 2 sedan type vehicles. Kia has done absolutely nothing to prevent thefts or damage to these vehicles and now have lied to judges in my case. They are trying to force me back into the class action as they dont want to pay me for damages they caused and the class action settlement is a joke. That is why I opted out almost 2 years ago now. Kia are liars.

Service bulletins

Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.

• 11007859TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FRONT STRUT BEARING & SPRING PAD REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to replace the front strut bearing and upper spring pad on both front (LH and RH) strut assemblies on certain 2019-2024MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced from July 09, 2018 through present, 2020-2024MY Soul (SK3) vehicles produced from November 15, 2018 through present, and 2021-2024 Seltos (SP2) vehicles produced from November 20, 2019 through present. The affected vehicles may exhibit an intermittent noise when turning the steering wheel both when driving and when the vehicle is not in motion.
• 11005364TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FRONT STRUT BEARING & SPRING PAD REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to replace the front strut bearing and upper spring pad on both front (LH and RH) strut assemblies on certain 2019-2024MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced from July 09, 2018 through present, 2020-2024MY Soul (SK3) vehicles produced from November 15, 2018 through present, and 2021-2024 Seltos (SP2) vehicles produced from November 20, 2019 through present. The affected vehicles may exhibit an intermittent noise when turning the steering wheel both when driving and when the vehicle is not in motion.
• 11004930TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: IVT OIL PRESSURE SENSOR REPLACEMENT: This bulletin provides information to replace the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) Oil Pressure Sensor (OPS) on some 2018-2024MY vehicles listed on page 3 equipped with IVT. The affected vehicles may exhibit a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated on the instrument cluster with DTCs P084500, P084600, and/or P0867XX present with no drivability concerns due to a failed IVT oil pressure sensor.
• 11001596TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2305) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2014-2018MY Forte (YD), 2017-2018MY Forte (YDm), and 2019-2021MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced within the dates outlined in page 13, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation which activates when the vehicle is locked with the use of the key fob.
• 11000787This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced.
• 10250517TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: AVN 5.0 WIDE NON-RESPONSIVE RADIO ICON (AM, FM, SXM) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to update the software on 5th Generation AVN wide on certain 2020-2024MY Kia vehicles (refer to model list on page 3) to remedy a 'non-responsive' or 'inoperative' radio (FM, AM, SXM, etc. ) concern. The affected AVN unit on the vehicles may not respond when pressing the 'RADIO' hard key/button on the AVN unit or when selecting the 'RADIO' icon on the AVN menu screen.
• 10248691TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FRONT STRUT BEARING & SPRING PAD REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information to replace the front strut bearing and upper spring pad on both front (LH and RH) strut assemblies on certain 2019-2024MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced from July 09, 2018 through present, 2020-2024MY Soul (SK3) vehicles produced from November 15, 2018 through present, and 2021-2024 Seltos (SP2) vehicles produced from November 20, 2019 through present. The affected vehicles may exhibit an intermittent noise when turning the steering wheel both when driving and when the vehicle is not in motion.
• 10245168TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL SEAT TRACK REPLACEMENT FOR INOPERATIVE FRONT SEAT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to inspect and repair an inoperative front seat mechanism on some 2019-2024MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced from June 18, 2018 through Present and some 2018-2023MY Rio (SC) vehicles produced from January 2, 2017 through August 16, 2023. Symptoms of an inoperative front seat include the inability of the seat to move forward and backward, which may be caused by a pin getting stuck on a rail.
• 10245167TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2305) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2014-2018MY Forte (YD), 2017-2018MY Forte (YDm), and 2019-2021MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced within the dates outlined in page 13, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation which activates when the vehicle is locked.
• 10244289TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HVAC BLOWER MOTOR CONNECTOR REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to replace the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) blower motor connector on some 2019-2023MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced from July 09, 2018 through present, which may experience the air conditioning function inoperative. The blower motor connector pins may have poor pin tension. Poor pin tension occurs when the female pin is slightly open which will not allow for a proper electrical connection. While driving, the road conditions can cause the connector pin to slightly move within the connector and will intermittently make contact with the male pin. This can cause excessive circuit resistance, causing the blower motor to become inoperative. Follow the procedure outlined in this publication to replace the HVAC blower motor connector.
• 10241848TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: AVN 5.0 WIDE NON-RESPONSIVE RADIO ICON (AM, FM, SXM) - This bulletin provides information to update the software on 5th Generation AVN wide on certain 2020-2023MY Kia vehicles to remedy a 'non-responsive' or 'inoperative' radio (FM, AM, SXM, etc.) concern. The affected AVN unit on the vehicles may not respond when pressing the 'RADIO' hard key/button on the AVN unit or when selecting the 'RADIO' icon on the AVN menu screen. Follow the procedure outlined in this publication to update the software on 5th Generation AVN wide units using the applicable USB Flash Drive A or B for the applicable vehicle.
• 10240758TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE REMINDER SETTING RESET PROCEDURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information regarding the service reminder setting, which may have been auto-set by the Kia Vehicle Inspection and Delivery application (KVID) at time of Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI). Beginning with the 2023MY, Oil Life Monitoring (OLM) has been applied to all models, except Forte (BDm), Stinger (CK), Telluride (ON) and Soul (SK3). Refer to TSB ENG241 for additional information. As of 08/11/2023, the service reminder auto-set feature by KVID has been disabled for ALL models NOT equipped with OLM.
• 10240757TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HVAC BLOWER MOTOR CONNECTOR REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information to replace the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) blower motor connector on some 2019-2023MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced from July 09, 2018 through present, which may experience the air conditioning function inoperative. The blower motor connector pins may have poor pin tension. Poor pin tension occurs when the female pin is slightly open which will not allow for a proper electrical connection. While driving, the road conditions can cause the connector pin to slightly move within the connector and will intermittently contact the male pin. This may cause excessive circuit resistance, causing the blower motor to become inoperative.
• 10240737CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system should a locked vehicle be the subject of a break-in and theft attempt without the key. This software upgrade will be available to the customer free of charge for eighteen (18) months from the date of the original letter. When the software upgrade is complete, Kia will also provide the customer with window stickers that can be applied to the vehicle to discourage a break-in.
• 10240563TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to update the software logic in the Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module on certain 2012-2022MY model vehicles listed on page 7. Vehicles equipped with a Kia Genuine Remote Start feature and have had the Anti-Theft software logic (CS230*) applied to the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) may experience five (5) inadvertent honks after starting the vehicle with the remote start feature.
• 10239715TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2305) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2014-2018MY Forte (YD), 2017-2018MY Forte (YDm), and 2019-2021MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced within the dates outlined in page 13, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation which activates when the vehicle is locked.
• 10239108TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin provides information to update the software logic in the Kia Genuine Remote Start Control Module on certain 2012-2022MY model vehicles listed on page 6. Vehicles equipped with a Kia Genuine Remote Start feature and have had the Anti-Theft software logic (CS230*) applied to the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) may experience five (5) inadvertent honks after starting the vehicle with the remote start feature.
• 10238485TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: IVT SOFTWARE LOGIC IMPROVEMENT AND/OR IVT REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to update the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software logic and, if necessary, replace the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) assembly on certain 2019-2021MY model vehicles listed in the chart below, which may exhibit an MIL ON with the DTC(s) listed below and a lack/delay in acceleration due to transmission slippage.
• 10238483TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: LOOSE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY PARTIAL REPAIR - This bulletin provides information regarding a loose crankshaft pulley condition on certain 2020-2023MY Forte (BDm) vehicles equipped with a 1.6L T-GDI and 6-speed manual transmission, produced from May 15, 2019 through present, where excessive engine loads may cause the crankshaft pulley bolt to back out, causing the crankshaft pulley to come loose. If this condition occurs, a loose crankshaft pulley may cause the alignment dowel pin to shear and the crankshaft pulley to separate from the crankshaft.
• 10238222VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: IVT SOFTWARE LOGIC IMPROVEMENT AND/OR IVT REPLACEMENT (SC199) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. (This bulletin was previously referred as SA424 or ELE 200.) This bulletin provides the procedure to update the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software logic and, if necessary, replace the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) on certain 2019-2021MY vehicles listed in the chart below. The affected vehicles may exhibit the illumination of MIL with the DTC(s) listed below in addition to a lack of acceleration or delay in accelerating due to transmission slippage.
• 10237139TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: OVERHEAD CONSOLE SUNGLASS DOOR-LATCH REPAIR - This bulletin provides information to repair the overhead console lamp assembly and sunglass door latch on some 2012-2023MY model vehicles listed in the table below, which may encounter the sunglass case of the overhead console lamp not closing properly.
• 10236651TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2305) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2014-2018MY Forte (YD), 2017-2018MY Forte (YDm), and 2019-2021MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced within the dates outlined in page 13, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation which activates when the vehicle is locked.
• 10235406TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2305) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2014-2018MY Forte (YD), 2017-2018MY Forte (YDm), and 2019-2021MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced within the dates outlined in page 10, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation.
• 10235104PIT STOP: LOG FILE COLLECTION FOR AVN 5.0/W AND DISPLAY AUDIO 2.0 - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This Pitstop contains information regarding the log file collection procedure for 2020MY~ models equipped with AVN 5.0/W or Display Audio 2.0 head units.
• 10235094CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system should a locked vehicle be the subject of a break-in and theft attempt without the key. This software upgrade will be available to the customer free of charge for eighteen (18) months from the date of this letter. When the software upgrade is complete, Kia will also provide the customer with window stickers that can be applied to your vehicle to discourage a break-in.
• 10234597TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2305) - This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Module (BCM) system on certain 2014-2018MY Forte (YD), 2017-2018MY Forte (YDm), and 2019-2021MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced within the dates outlined in page 10, which may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This logic upgrade will add anti-theft ignition start logic to the vehicle's system operation.
• 10230490TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INSTALLATION OF SECONDARY FUEL TANK INLET CHECK VALVE (ICV) - This bulletin supersedes TSB FUE052. Follow the updated information in this bulletin for the noted concern on the applicable vehicle. This bulletin provides information on installation of a secondary fuel tank Inlet Check Valve (ICV) on some 2020MY Forte (BDm) vehicles produced from May 15, 2019 through August 3, 2020, which may exhibit fuel well-up (sometimes referred to as spit-back) from the Fuel Filler Neck, after the tank has been filled up, and the fuel dispenser clicks off. This condition may occur rarely, when the ICV in the fuel tank (at end of Fuel Filler Neck) becomes temporarily stuck in the open position due to the ICV ribs preventing the ICV from closing completely.
• 10230489Technical service bulletin closed: fuel tank inlet check valve (icv) modification - fue052 superseded by fue056
• 10226555TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced, refer to applicable vehicles in the chart starting on page 2.
• 10226554TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR: COMPRESSOR FIELD COIL ASSEMBLY INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information regarding A/C Compressor Field Coil Assembly inspection and replacement on some 2017-2018MY Forte (YDm) and 2019-2023MY Forte (BDm) vehicles.
• 10220346TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: MAINTENANCE REMINDER FEATURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.This bulletin provides information on setting the "Service Interval Reminder" feature available on most 2014-2023MY Kia vehicles (refer to model list on page 2). If the service interval reminder is set, the customer will be informed to have the next maintenance service performed, which can positively affect vehicle longevity and performance. Refer to TSB ENG241 for 2023MY~ vehicles equipped with the Oil Life Management System (OLMS) feature not included in table on page 2.
• 10217922VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: IVT SOFTWARE LOGIC IMPROVEMENT AND/OR IVT REPLACEMENT (SC199) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. (This bulletin was previously referred as 'SA424' or 'ELE 200'.) This bulletin provides the procedure to update the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software logic and, if necessary, replace the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) on certain 2019-2021MY vehicles listed in the chart below. The affected vehicles may exhibit the illumination of MIL with the DTC(s) listed below in addition to a lack of acceleration or delay in accelerating due to transmission slippage.
• 10217892TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE REMINDER SETTING RESET PROCEDURE - This bulletin provides the procedure to turn OFF the service reminder lamp, at the first service interval reminder alert that will display on the instrument cluster. The KDS is required to change the setting from "Workshop" to "Customer Mode."
• 10216497VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: IVT SOFTWARE LOGIC IMPROVEMENT AND/OR IVT REPLACEMENT (SC199) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. (This bulletin was previously referred as 'SA424' or 'ELE 200'.) This bulletin provides the procedure to update the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software logic and, if necessary, replace the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) on certain 2019-2021MY vehicles listed in the chart below. The affected vehicles may exhibit the illumination of MIL with the DTC(s) listed below in addition to a lack of acceleration or delay in accelerating due to transmission slippage.
• 10210265TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: IVT SOFTWARE LOGIC IMPROVEMENT AND/OR IVT REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to update the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software logic and, if necessary, replace the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) assembly on certain 2019-2021MY model vehicles listed in the chart below, which may exhibit an MIL ON with the DTC(s) listed below and a lack/delay in acceleration due to transmission slippage. To correct this concern, if necessary, apply the improved software logic to the CVT system using the KDS ECU Upgrade function as described in this bulletin and replace the IVT assembly.
• 10209455PITSTOP: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER REPLACEMENT AND MILEAGE SETTING WITH KDS - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This pitstop provides the KDS service procedure for mileage setting on the models listed below with newly replaced instrument clusters. Certain models allow for mileage setting with the KDS, which prevents the need to send out the instrument cluster to a 3rd party for mileage adjustment (refer to PS264). After a new cluster is installed, cluster (variant) coding may also need to be conducted using the KDS. Make sure the KDS software is also updated to the latest version. Mileage setting should be performed by using the KDS only, as described in this bulletin.
• 10209438TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2021MY vehicles (refer to the tables on pages 8-9 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
• 10206878PITSTOP: BATTERY DEALER (SHIPPING)/CUSTOMER MODE SWITCH - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This Pitstop provides information regarding a new interface related to the electronic Dealer (Shipping) / Customer Mode Switch setting on all applicable models.
• 10206642TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2021MY vehicles (refer to the tables on pages 8-9 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
• 10205426TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2021MY vehicles (refer to the tables on pages 8-9 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.

Every KIA Forte model year

Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.