What are the most common problems with the 2023 Kia Forte?

The 2023 Kia Forte has a notable number of safety recalls, particularly concerning the **steering knuckle** and **lower control arm**. Prioritize confirming these repairs.

How many recalls does the 2023 Kia Forte have?

The 2023 Kia Forte currently has 3 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2023 Kia Forte a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 2023 Kia Forte has a notable number of safety recalls, particularly concerning the **steering knuckle** and **lower control arm**. Prioritize confirming these repairs. Despite recalls, the Forte achieved a good overall NHTSA safety rating of 4 stars, with a perfect 5 stars in side crash tests. Fuel economy is a strong suit, with a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG, making it an economical choice for daily commuting. The absence of reported consumer complaints is unusual given the recall activity, suggesting potential proactive manufacturer intervention or incomplete complaint data. Potential buyers should focus inspections on the steering and suspension systems due to the nature of the recalls. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2023 Kia Forte?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2023 Kia Forte.

2023 Kia Forte Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026Ryan Davis1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 2023 Kia Forte has a notable number of safety recalls, particularly concerning the steering knuckle and lower control arm. Prioritize confirming these repairs.
Despite recalls, the Forte achieved a good overall NHTSA safety rating of 4 stars, with a perfect 5 stars in side crash tests.
Fuel economy is a strong suit, with a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG, making it an economical choice for daily commuting.
The absence of reported consumer complaints is unusual given the recall activity, suggesting potential proactive manufacturer intervention or incomplete complaint data.

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Overview

2023 Kia Forte

The 2023 Kia Forte presents itself as a practical compact car with commendable fuel efficiency and solid safety ratings, earning an overall 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA. However, used car shoppers must be aware of its reliability record. The model year saw three recalls, two of which addressed critical steering and suspension defects. While no consumer complaints were logged in the provided data, these recalls suggest potential manufacturing quality concerns that could impact long-term ownership. Its 1.6-liter engine paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) delivers an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined.

Critical Failure Risk

A potential crack in the front left steering knuckle can lead to a loss of steering control. This is a manufacturing defect identified in recalls.

Early detection can help you avoid a $600-$1,100 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious commuters seeking good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers unwilling to perform rigorous pre-purchase inspections.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Kia Forte Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
EPA Combined MPG: 26

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering Knuckle Cracks

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Lower Control Arm Weld 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, Drain Plug Gasket) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

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

3 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2023 Kia Forte reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Kia Forte is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 Kia Forte for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.7/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Kia Forte?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Kia Forte is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 4.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Kia Forte?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter, Drain Plug Gasket) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Knuckle (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1000).

What engine is in the 2023 Kia Forte?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2023 Kia Forte use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Forte, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Kia Forte?

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Kia Forte?

16 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2023 Kia Forte?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Forte, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2023 Kia Forte?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Forte, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Kia Forte use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Forte, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Kia Forte?

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Kia Forte?

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.