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2017 Kia Forte Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ryan Davis·7 Critical Recalls
2017 Kia Forte Report

Overall Score

7.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize inspection and verification of recall completion for the air bag control unit and engine oil pump.
  • The air bag control unit recall addresses potential failure of the system, directly impacting occupant safety.
  • Engine oil pump issues could lead to significant powertrain damage if not properly addressed.
  • Despite zero logged complaints, the high TSB count suggests potential for minor issues or diagnostic challenges.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Kia Forte

The 2017 Kia Forte offers a practical package with a commendable 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating. However, its 'Average' reliability verdict, driven by a significant number of critical safety recalls (9 total) and a high TSB count (61), warrants careful consideration for used car buyers. These recalls, focusing on vital systems like airbags and engine oil pumps, indicate potential for underlying issues despite a lack of logged consumer complaints. Fuel economy is respectable, rated at 28 MPG combined, making it a reasonably economical choice for daily commuting.

Critical Failure Risk

The engine oil pump can fail due to foreign particles, leading to loss of oil pressure and potential severe engine damage. This issue was subject to a recall.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls9
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
28
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
33
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.0/ 10

Practicality

6.1/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical sedan with good safety ratings.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing a flawless reliability record with minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Kia Forte Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Kia Forte.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
28

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Engine Oil Pump Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Airbag Control Unit (ACU) Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $80 - $130

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
9 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Kia Forte reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Kia Forte is 8.0/10. Reliability score is 8.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 9. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Kia Forte for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.1/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 5 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Kia Forte?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Kia Forte is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 6.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Kia Forte?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Oil Pump (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $3,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Kia Forte?▾

Base MSRP is $22,100.

What engine is in the 2017 Kia Forte?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2017 Kia Forte use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Forte, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Kia Forte?▾

EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Kia Forte?▾

7 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Kia Forte?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Forte, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Kia Forte?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Forte, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Kia Forte use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Forte, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Kia Forte?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Kia Forte?▾

This model year has 9 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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