CarRecallDB

2019 Kia Forte recalls and problems

2 recalls and 150 owner complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2019 Kia Forte.

2
recalls
150
owner complaints
11
complaints mentioning a crash
4
mentioning a fire

Recalls apply to specific production ranges. To see whether a particular car still has an open recall, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Repairs for safety recalls are free at authorised dealers.

2019 Kia Forte recalls

Power train: axle assembly, axle shaft

NHTSA campaign 20V459000 · reported August 5, 2020 · Kia Motors America · 834 vehicles potentially affected

The problem
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Forte vehicles. The left front axle driveshaft may not have been heat-treated, which can cause it to break.
The risk
A broken driveshaft can result in a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left front axle driveshaft for a heat treatment verification code, and replace it if the code is missing, free of charge. The recall began September 2, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC195.

Exterior lighting: headlights

NHTSA campaign 18V771000 · reported October 31, 2018 · Kia Motors America · 1,754 vehicles potentially affected

The problem
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Kia Forte vehicles equipped with LED headlights. The headlights may not have been manufactured with the correct low beam aiming. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
The risk
If the headlights are not properly aimed, the driver may have reduced visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlight aiming and replace the headlights, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 30, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC171.

Most reported problems

Areas named in owner complaints to NHTSA. One complaint can name several areas.

What owners report

Recent complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. These are unverified accounts from owners, not findings.

Oct 23, 2026 · Engine

While Driving, the vehicle lost power and stopped. Found out the timing chain went out/broken. This car only had 62,000. 2019 Kia Forte

Oct 14, 2026 · Steering

I took my 2019 Kia Forte LXS to a certified Kia dealership to have the mandatory anti-theft security upgrade performed (Campaign CS2312), which involves installing an ignition cylinder protector plate inside the steering column. Immediately after picking up the vehicle, multiple severe safety and electrical defects…

Oct 13, 2026 · Power train · 106,000 miles

The contact owns a 2019 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at 70-75 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and the check engine warning light illuminated, causing the contact and her daughter to be stranded on the highway. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who replaced the spark plugs and…

Aug 26, 2026 · Engine

recommended engine replacement at 111,000 miles

Jul 13, 2026 · Electrical system

Power loss, engine failure. Will not start

Forte model years compared

YearRecallsComplaintsCrashesFires
2016 1136166
2017 33052310
2018 3136133
2019 2150114
2020 07892
2021 269110
2022 12831

Across all years, the 2014 Forte has the most complaints (444). All Kia Forte years →

Questions

Does the 2019 Kia Forte have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2019 Kia Forte, the most recent reported on August 5, 2020 (Power train: axle assembly, axle shaft). Check a specific car by its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Kia Forte?
Owners have filed 150 complaints with NHTSA. The most frequently reported area is power train (48 complaints), followed by engine (38).
How many 2019 Kia Forte complaints mention a crash or fire?
11 of 150 complaints report a crash and 4 a fire; 5 injuries were reported in total. Complaints are unverified reports from owners.

Source: NHTSA recall and complaint data, updated October 27, 2026. Latest complaint received October 23, 2026.