CARFOCAL

2019 Kia Forte Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026Ethan Miller
2019 Kia Forte Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Kia Forte achieved a good overall reliability verdict, supported by a low complaint count.
  • A recall for the left front axle shaft, potentially not heat-treated, is the most significant mechanical concern. Confirm this recall has been addressed.
  • Fuel economy is a strong suit, with a combined EPA rating of 31 MPG, contributing to lower running costs.
  • NHTSA crash test results are favorable, with an overall 4-star rating and a perfect 5-star score for side impacts.
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Overview

2019 Kia Forte

The 2019 Kia Forte presents itself as a practical and fuel-efficient compact car. It boasts strong safety ratings, particularly in side impacts, and delivers impressive highway mileage. While generally reliable, a manufacturing defect affecting the left front axle shaft was subject to a recall, a critical point for used car shoppers to verify.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall addressed the left front axle driveshaft potentially not being properly heat-treated during manufacturing. This could lead to premature wear or breakage.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and solid safety ratings.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand cutting-edge performance or luxury features.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Kia Forte Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Kia Forte.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
31

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Most Common Issues

1. Axle Shaft Manufacturing Defect

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Headlight Aiming

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: $75 - $125

7,500 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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Kia Forte reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Kia Forte is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2019 Kia Forte for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.9/10. EPA combined economy is 31 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 421 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Kia Forte?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Kia Forte is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 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 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Axle Shaft (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Kia Forte?

Base MSRP is $21,990.

What engine is in the 2019 Kia Forte?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2019 Kia Forte use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Forte, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Kia Forte?

EPA combined estimate is 31 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Kia Forte?

9 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Kia Forte?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Forte, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Kia Forte?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Forte, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Kia Forte use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Forte, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Kia Forte?

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Kia Forte?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Kia Forte?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Honda Civic and 2019 Toyota Corolla.