2012 KIA Forte

These are unverified consumer reports filed with NHTSA, shown as submitted.

• 12/31/2019· ENGINE

  PURCHASED MY KIA FORTE 2.4L HATCHBACK USED 5 YEARS AGO WITH 42,000 MILES ON IT. I HAVE HAD NO PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR AND HAVE CHANGED TO OIL AT THE RECOMMENDED INTERVALS AND PARTICIPATED IN THE MANUFACTURER RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE AT CERTIFIED KIA DEALERS ONLY. IN BETWEEN OIL CHANGES, OIL LEVEL NEVER DECREASED SO THERE WERE NO LEAKS. I WAS DRIVING HOME ON A 3-HOUR TRIP WHEN THE ENGINE STARTED TO DEVELOP A RATTLING NOISE. I PULLED OVER TO CHECK THE FLUIDS AND EXPOSED BELT AND NO ISSUES. THE RATTLING GREW MORE NOTICEABLE FROM A RATTLING TO A GRINDING NOISE (60-70 MPH) AND THEN THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON. WITHIN MINUTES THE ENGINE COMPLETELY SHUT OFF, POWER LOST AND SPEED DECREASING WITHOUT A WAY TO ACCELERATE. I WAS ON A BUSY VIRGINIA HIGHWAY AND WAS ABLE TO PULL ONTO THE SHOULDER. TOWED TO CERTIFIED KIA DEALER WHO STATED THAT ONCE THEY OPENED THE OIL PAN, CHUNKS OF METAL CAME OUT AND THERE WERE GAPING HOLES IN ENGINE BLOCK. CLEARLY THIS ENGINE IS FACING THE SAME TERRIBLE FATE OF THE OTHER ENGINES RECALLED BY KIA; WHY WONT THEY ADMIT AND RECALL THE KIA ENGINES? AS SECOND OWNER, CAR IS NO LONGER COVERED UNDER WARRANTY.

• 12/30/2024· SUSPENSION,ENGINECrash

  The contact owned a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving at approximately 15 MPH, as the contact was turning to the left and ascending a slight grade in the road the vehicle's rear end was swaying to the left and the right. The contact stated she was not able to regain control of the vehicle and drove off of the roadway and down an embankment. The contact was rendered unconscious. The contact stated that emergency services were on the scene and the state police. The contact stated that she was not transported to the hospital and was taken to her residence by the state police. The contact stated that the police had issued a report. The contact later was taken to the hospital and was diagnosed as having a fractured sternum, damage to her lower back, concussion, and neck damage. The contact stated that the police had the vehicle towed to an impound lot. The contact stated that her insurance provider had declared the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact stated that before the crash the vehicle had been stalling intermittently but she had not had the vehicle taken to a dealer or independent mechanic to have it diagnosed. The failure mileage was approximately 136,000.

• 12/30/2021· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINEFire

  I tried starting my vehicle and it wouldn't turn over so I pulled the key out of the ignition and the engine kept running. It stopped quickly, so I thought it was weird so I tried again and it made the same vacuum type noise and started smoking, all while the key was not in the ignition. It stopped smoking but I walked away for a sec and came back and the entire place was filled with smoke and the engine had then caught on fire. I was in a parking garage so many other vehicles could have been damaged, and people could have inhaled smoke and other things of that nature. I was also concerned that it would explode and cause even more damage. There was no other signs that this would happen, my vehicle had driven fine the morning of. The car is totaled of course and was towed off.

• 12/30/2014· AIR BAGSCrash

  THE CAR GOT A FLAT TIRE WHILE TAKING A CURVE AND HIT A CONCRETE POLE. THE CAR WAS TOTAL LOSS AND ALL THE FRONT PART WAS SMASHED. THE STEERING WHEEL AIRBAG WAS THE ONLY TO DEPLOY BUT DID NOT DEPLOY ALL THE WAY, SIDE AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOYED. DRIVER GOT A CLAVICLE FRACTURE. ....UPDATED 01/23/15 *BF UPDATED 2/11/16 *JS

• 12/30/2014· TIRES

  WHILE DRIVING A 2012 KIA FORTE EX WITH 21000 MILES AND NEXEN 195/65/15 CP671 TIRES,, A FRONT TIRE SEPARATION OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED. 10 DAYS LATER A REAR TIRE SEPARATION OCCURRED ALSO DURING NORMAL HIGHWAY DRIVING. *JS

• 12/29/2019· AIR BAGSCrash

  WAS HIT FROM BEHIND BY ANOTHER CAR AT A SPEED THAT SHOULD HAVE CAUSE THE AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY BUT NONE DID. THE ACCIDENT HAPPENED ON 12/26/19. I WAS HEADED SOUTHBOUND ON MINNESOTA AVE IN SIOUX FALLS, SD. I SLOWED DOWN TO TURN EAST WHEN A CAR HIT ME FROM BEHIND. THE IMPACT CAUSED MY CAR TO SPIN 270*. SHATTERED THE REAR DRIVER WINDOW. BENT FRAME. BUT NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED

• 12/29/2017· VISIBILITY/WIPER

  I WAS DRIVING ON A LOCAL STREET WHEN I ALL OF A SUDDEN HEARD A LOUD NOISE COME FROM ABOVE. SECONDS LATER, I START HEARING SOME RATTLING ABOVE ME. WHEN I AM ABLE TO PULL OVER, I OPEN THE COVER TO THE SUN ROOF AND A PIECE OF GLASS FALLS. I IMMEDIATELY CLOSE THE COVER AGAIN SO NO MORE GLASS CAN FALL INTO THE CAR. MY SUN ROOF IMPLODED AND BROKE EVERYWHERE. THANKFULLY I HAD THE SUN ROOF COVER CLOSED OTHERWISE I WOULD HAVE BEEN HURT. I READ ONLINE THAT HAD HAPPENED TO OTHER PEOPLE BEFORE BUT KIA TOLD ME THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE SUN ROOF AND SOMETHING HAD TO OF FALLEN ON THE GLASS CAUSING IT BREAK. I ENDED UP HAVING TO PAY MY DEDUCTIBLE.

• 12/28/2023· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

  The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

• 12/22/2020· STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

  I PREVIOUS REPORT NUMBER 11384011, PICTURES UPLOADED: DRIVING TO REPAIR LOCATION ON FREEWAY AND THE CAR STARTING SMOKING AND BURST INTO FLAME FROM THE ENGINE. MANAGED TO STOP AND GOT OUT OF THE BURNING CAR. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED FIRE SERVICE WHO CAME AND STOP THE BURNING. CAR TOWED TO KIA DEALERSHIP FACILITY. *LN *AS*JB

• 12/22/2020· ENGINE

  FAILING OIL PUMP AT 140K MILES

• 12/22/2019· ENGINE

  2012 KIA FORTE KOUP DRIVING ON A 45MPH ROAD WHEN WITHOUT WARNING ENGINE SEIZED CAUSING DANGEROUS SITUATION ATTEMPTING TO PULL CAR TO SIDE WITHOUT POWER. TOOK VEHICLE TO DELEARSHIP FOR WARRANTY SERVICE AS CAR WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY WAS DENIED WARRANTY SERVICE FOR LUDICROUS REFUSAL TO ACCEPT MAINTENANCE RECORDS BECAUSE I SCANNED THE ORIGINALS AND WOULD NOT HAND OVER THE ORIGINALS. VEHICLE WAS IN PERFECT RUNNING ORDER AND I PROVIDED VIDEO EVIDENCE SHOWING KIA VIDEO I HAPPENED TO HAVE SHOT JUST A FEW WEEKS BEFORE THE ENGINE FAILED DEMONSTRATING CAR WAS RUNNING PERFECT WITHOUT ANY SHAKES, RUMBLES,ODD NOISES AND ABSOLUTELY NO "SERVICE ENGINE" OR OTHER WARNING LIGHTS. KIA TOOK 2 MONTHS TO EVEN GIVE ME A PRELIMINARY DECISION THAT WOULD NOT COVER THE REPAIRS WITH NO OFFER TO ASSIST WITH A LOANER CAR OR RENTAL OR ANY OTHER ASSISTANCE. OPENED ENGINE UP TO FIND METAL SHAVINGS AND OTHER REMNANTS FROM MANUFACTURE FLOATING AROUND IN OIL PAN. UPON INVESTIGATING A LITTLE FURTHER DISCOVERED THAT KIA NEEDS TO HELD ACCOUNTABLE NOT ONLY FOR THE GDI THETA ENGINES THAT HAVE BEEN RECALLED UNDER SC147 BUT ALSO THE MPI MODEL ENGINES LIKE I HAVE IN MY CAR. IN THE RECALL KIA CLAIMS METAL SHAVINGS FROM MANUFACTURE OF THE CRANKSHAFTS ON THE GDI ENGINES CAUSED THE ISSUES.......HOWEVER, THE EXACT SAME CRANKSHAFT DOWN TO THE PART NUMBERS ARE 100% IDENTICAL. PLEASE I IMPLORE YOU TO HOLD KIA ACCOUNTABLE NOT ONLY FOR THE GDI ENGINES BUT ALSO THE MPI AS WELL. THEY BOTH USE THE EXACT SAME PART KIA CLAIMS HAD ISSUES AND KIA CONTINUES TO LIE AND NOT HONOR THEIR WARRANTY.

• 12/22/2016· AIR BAGS

  ON 12/20/16, MY OLDEST DAUGHTER WAS FOLLOWING MY YOUNGEST DAUGHTER TO HAVE BREAKFAST. MY OLDEST DAUGHTER DRIVES A 2012 KIA FORTE. MY YOUNGEST DAUGHTER WAS AT A RED LIGHT WITH MY KIA-DRIVING DAUGHTER DIRECTLY BEHIND. THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN, AND FOR SOME REASON THE YOUNGEST DID NOT GO. MY OLDEST TOOK HER FOOT OFF THE BRAKE AND "TAPPED" THE CAR IN FRONT OF HER. THE KIA'S DRIVE SIDE AIR BAG PARTIALLY DEPLOYED INJURING MY DAUGHTER'S HAND SLIGHTLY. SHE IMMEDIATELY DROVE IT HOME (WITH INOPERABLE SEAT BELTS DUE TO DEPLOYMENT) AND CALLED ME. WE CALLED THE DEALERSHIP, AND THEY REFERRED US TO A BODY SHOP WHERE WE WERE GIVEN AN ESTIMATE OF ~$2,000 FOR REPAIR. I INSPECTED BOTH VEHICLES AND COULD NOT SEE ANY EVIDENCE OF DAMAGE (NOT EVEN A PAINT SMUDGE). THIS WAS VERY UPSETTING AS I AM NOW CONCERNED WITH SPURIOUS AIR BAG DEPLOYMENTS WITH THIS VEHICLE. KIA CLAIMED THAT BOTH IMPACT AND DECELERATION ARE REQUIRED TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAG, MY QUESTION IS WHY DID IT ONLY PARTIALLY DEPLOY ? THIS INCIDENT WAS VERY SIMILAR TO PARKING A CAR AND TOUCHING THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF IT. SEE PHOTOS FOR DEPLOYMENT, AND NO DAMAGE TO FRONT OF VEHICLE. *TR

• 12/21/2020· ENGINE

  ENGINE ALWAYS HAS HAD EXCESSIVE BLOW BY. AND NOISE. SMELL FUEL AT TIMES. DER SYS ITS NORMAL FOR THIS CAR.

• 12/21/2012· FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

  I BOUGHT MY 2012 KIA FORTE EX ON 11/12/2011. RIGHT AFTER MY FIRST OIL CHANGE FROM THE KIA DEALER. I TOOK IT HOME AND PARKED IT IN MY GARAGE. THIS WOULD HAVE BEEN FRIDAY JAN. 21 2011. WE WERE GOING TO DINNER ON SATURDAY 01/22/2012. AND THE CAR WOULD NOT START. TOOK 10 MINUTES. WITH GASOLINE SMELL IN CAR. WE LET THE AIR CLEAR OUT. WELL TO MAKE A LONG STORY SHORT. I HAVE HAD THIS CAR INTO TWO DIFFERENT DEALERS AND THEY KEEP TELLING ME THAT THEY CANNOT FIND THE PROBLEM DUE TO NO LIGHT OR SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT GOING OFF. IT IS NOW 12/21/2012. AND STILL HAVING ISSUES WHICH IS A VERY VERY BAD SAFETY ISSUE. ON 12/17/2012 I WAS GETTING READY TO LEAVE AND HAD A VERY BAD RAW GASOLINE SMELL IN THE CAR. AGAIN I CALLED DEALER AND THEY SAID BRING IT UP. SO I DID SO. MY GENERAL MANAGER AS WELL AS FELLOW EMPLOYEES SMELLED THE FUEL ODOR ALSO. GENERAL MANAGER SAID TO ME THAT HE FELT THAT THIS WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. NOW PROHIBITING ME FROM PARKING THIS CAR NEAR OUR FACILITY. ANYWAY I DROVE IT TO FT. WAYNE TO THE DEALER WITH ALL 4 WINDOWS DOWN UNTIL ENTERING FT. WAYNE. IT STARTED RAINING. I HAD TO ROLL THEM ALL UP. AT DEALER. SERVICE MANAGER SMELT THE TERRIBLE SMELL AS WELL AS AN CUSTOMER AND TECHNICIAN. THEY WENT THROUGH EVERYTHING NOT FINDING ANY PROBLEM WITH THE TESTS THEY DID. ON 12/20/2012. I WAS TOLD TO COME AND PICK MY CAR UP (REPS ORDER.) SINCE THEY COULD NOT GET THIS TO REOCCUR. SO IN THE MEANTIME I HAVE AN BABY AND 2 OTHER CHILDREN AND US THAT ARE PUT INTO A DANGEROUS SITUATION JUST BECAUSE THEY CANNOT PINPOINT THIS ISSUE. THE ISSUE IS AN NO START OR MISFIRE THEN THE FUEL SMELL IS THERE FOR DAYS. MY FEAR IS THAT THE FUMES WILL MAKE US SICK OR EVEN AN EXPLOSION. I HAVE TALKED TO SEVERAL FIREMEN WHO HAVE EXPLAINED TO ME WHAT MAY OR COULD HAPPEN. WHY SHOULD I HAVE TO KEEP PUTTING MY FAMILY AND MYSELF INTO THIS DANGER? THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE. *TR

• 12/19/2022· FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE

  The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated that there was a strong gasoline odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated while starting the vehicle, the engine made abnormal knocking sounds. The contact stated that the failure occurred increasingly while driving. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V75000 (Engine). An unknow dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

• 12/18/2020· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

  DROVE MY 2012 KIA FORTE FOR ABOUT HALF A MILE AROUND OUR STREET AND I STARTED SMELLING BURNING ODOR AND BEFORE I COULD GUESS, WHERE THE SMELL WAS EMANATING FROM, I SAW HEAVY SMOKE COMING OUT FROM THE FRONT AND SIDE OF THE HOOD. I FRANTICALLY MANAGED TO STOP AND PARK. I TRIED TO OPEN THE HOOD BUT I COULDN'T. AFTER MANY TRIES WITH THE HEAT I FINALLY OPENED IT. AS THE SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE ENGINE, I REALIZED IT WAS VERY HOT, WHILE OTHER PARTS OF THE WHOLE ENGINE COMPARTMENT WAS COOL. WHEN I TRIED TO START IT AFTER 30 MINUTES, I SAW THE CHECK ENGINE SIGNAL ON THE DASHBOARD. I SIMPLY PARKED CAR ON THE CURVE, LOCKED IT TO FIND A TOW TRUCK. NEXT DAY CALLED KIA CONSUMER AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT AND THEY TOLD ME THAT MY CAR IS NOT PART OF THE RECALL, AFTER I GAVE THEM MY IN NUMBER. THEY SAID TO CHECK AFTER 1/27/21, THE DATE THE CURRENT RECALL WILL BE PUBLISHED. THEY SAID TO TAKE MY CAR FOR KIA DEALERSHIP AND PAY FOR REPAIRS. THEY THEY WILL REFUND ME IF IT IS PART OF THE RECALL ON 1/27/21.

• 12/17/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINEFire

  Engine started screeching out of nowhere, sounded like something fell through, there was no warning of any kind, car was running seemingly fine prior to this, car was jolting and not going anymore and something also sounded as if it had popped, it started knocking and caught fire and was smoking, breaking down on the side of the road and has been in another state since this occurred just sitting at a hotel because we had to get a rental car. We did call Kia in Georgia to have this issue rectified as we had recently bought this vehicle and were unaware there was a recall on it, however we did some checking and the previous owner also let us know there is a recall for engine fire. I do have the papers for that. Kia advised us they would not be responsible, but Panama City fl Kia where we live were willing to look at that car prior to this incident and take care of the recall, the previous owner never went but now the car has caught fire whilst we were driving in it 7.5 hours away from our house out of town with our children in the car. We had to pull over off of the interstate because the car was on fire and get out on the side of the road and all of had to evacuate. I do believe that if we had been going any faster, we may have even became fatalities because the car locked up. It turned off actually as I was turning to to the exit and just coasted far enough to not be hit in the middle of the road. It was terrifying and we had to move fast and smoke was starting to come through, it started dropping oil everywhere just spilling out lv its almost like the entire underneath of the motor just dropped or something. I’m not quite sure but it was sudden and it has been absolutely miserable.

• 12/15/2023· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

  Hello My complaint is why is it taking KIA so long on the HECU electrical short issue. According to your website this all started at the end of Sept. We got a recall notice on dated Nov 14. When I call and visit the Kia dealership they are on hold waiting for updates from corporate I guess. Same thing when I e-mail KIA Customer care. See response from Kia below. ========================================================== We are following up regarding your web submission for recall remedy status for repairs to begin. We apologize to hear of the concern and appreciate the opportunity to assist with this matter. Unfortunately we do not have an eta for the remedy however once made available an second notice will be sent to you. ============================================================ Their work around is to park the car outside. Since their previous recall was for the ease of stealing the car AND it's getting very cold here in Minnesota that is not a good option. Given the fact that the car could catch on fire and possibly burn a house down or kill someone this needs a higher priority. Thankyou for your time. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

• 12/14/2023· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

  The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the taillights and brake lights were inoperable due to an electrical short. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

• 12/13/2023· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

  The contact's daughter owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the MIL warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

• 12/13/2020· ENGINE

  ABOUT A WEEK AGO CAR WAS RUNNING FINE EXCEPT IT WOULD SHUT OFFF WHILE DRIVEING ON OCCASION AND THROWING NO CODES SO MATT TAYLOR KIA COULD T FIGURE OUT WHAT TO DO WITH IT..THE CAR HAS DEVELOPED A VERY LOUD KNOCKING NOISE ,PUTTING OFF A VERY BAD SMALL AND SMOK E OUT THE EXHAUST,AND RECENT OIL CHANGE AND WE CHECK THE DIP STICK AND OIL IS BEYOND LOW WICH DID NOT MAKE ANY SENSE.THE CAR HAS THE 2.4 ENGINE WICH SADLY IS NOT ON THE RECALL LIST DESPITE MANY REPORTS OF THE SAME SYMPTOMS THAT ULTIMATELY LEAD TO ENGINE FIRES.I REFUSE TO LET MY SON GET BACK IN HIS VEHICLE THIS CAR NEEDS ADDED TO THE MASSIVE RECALL LIST ON KIA MOTORS ASAP BEFORE PEOPLE ARE KILLED

• 12/13/2014· VISIBILITY

  MY SUNROOF SPONTANEOUSLY EXPLODED. I CHECKED AND NOTHING HIT IT, JUST EXPLODED. I ALMOST GOT INTO AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE OF THE LOUD EXPLOSION. *TR

• 12/11/2023· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

  The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

• 12/10/2023· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES

  NHTSA safety recall 23V652000 addresses this defect with my vehicle, but the manufacturer has provided no credible or valid solution that positively remedies the vehicle defect. I am horrified of driving my vehicle since reading about the fire hazard that exists. Preliminary findings provided by Kia confirm the HECU/ABS module may leak brake fluid due to a faulty seal. Leaking fluid can come in contact with an adjacent multi-pin electrical connector, igniting the brake fluid and quickly leading to an engine fire. Kia has also stated a permanent solution is not yet available, while only issuing an interim recall. Furthermore, the proposed replacement part, consisting of a fuse, is unavailable for now. I am confused and frustrated with this solution. How will a fuse remedy a leaking brake fluid defect, which is the primary fault? This unacceptable action is a flagrant example of Kia's painfully slow and inadequate response to a serious defect. Drivers of affected vehicles are forced to endure aggravation, exasperation and much anxiety during the long wait for a repair. Already, my vehicle is on a list of models identified by Kia to have been manufactured without immobilizer modules. Kia has done nothing about remedying my immobilizer problem beyond providing a steering wheel locking device, which my auto insurance has deemed as insufficient and subsequently raised my premium. Lastly, my well-maintained vehicle, with only 28,570 miles on the odometer, may also be affected by the familiar Theta engine design manufacturing defect in the crankshaft bearings that fail and indirectly cause a connecting rod to break. The broken connecting rod then smashes through the engine block, hot engine oil spills out and onto the neighboring exhaust manifold. The end result is a raging engine compartment fire. Kia has never contacted me about this defect.

• 12/09/2022· ENGINE

  I purchased a Kia Forte, 2012, in September of 2021. The engine has stalled, several times after putting gas in it and last week after filling up, gas fumes permeated the inside of the car while driving. Recently, this has started happening regularly. When I decided to investigate why this is happening, so that I have awareness of possibilities before going to the crooked dealer, I learned of the Class Action Lawsuit settlement against Hyundai/Kia specifically related to deadly engine stalling while driving and engine fires as a result of the identical problem which I am having. When I put my VIN into your site, it comes up as zero recalls, however, as you state on your site, many vehicles VINs are still updating. I did the research to learn if my vehicle fit the category of how this is happening. The dangerous defect is happening with Hyundai/Kia Theta II multi-port fuel injection (MPI) engines, Nu gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines, and Gamma GDI engines described in the combined lawsuit and all vehicles that have the defect, which adds up to 1.05 million. The vehicles involved in the Settlement are Theta II, Hyundai Tucson/ix35 (LM) (2009–2015), Hyundai Sonata (2007–2014) Kia Forte (TD) (2008–2012), Kia Optima/K5 (2008–2012), Kia Sportage (SL) (2010–2013) My 2012 Kia Forte has the 2.0L DOHC MPI Theta II multi-port fuel injection (MPI) engine listed as defective. As a female Veteran who drives 60 miles to the nearest Veteran's hospital, I am now scared to drive the car due to reports of the vehicle stalling in traffic and in my case on the California freeway where speeds normally are typically 65 to 75 mph. I have no other vehicle. I purchased this vehicle for the outstanding CarFax and Experian reports as a rental car, resulting in the highest standard and consistent servicing for years. Please rush this complaint so that I can keep my VA doctor appointments. I am scared, my VIN is KNAFU4A29C5590130. Thank you.

• 12/09/2020· POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

  I HAVE HAD AN ENGINE KNOCK FOR ABOUT A YEAR AND A HALF NOW AND HAVE SEEN ALL THE RECALLS FOR SAME ENGINES IN OTHER VEHICLES. MY CAR ENGINE HAS NOT BEEN RECALLED AS OF YET IT APPEARS. WE HAVE THE SAME THETA 2 ENGINES THAT HAVE ALREADY BEEN RECALLED.

• 12/09/2020· ENGINE

  AT AROUND 125,000 MILES - I NOTICED A TICKING SOUND AND TAPPING COMING FROM THE ENGINE ON MY 2.0L MPI "THETA II" 2012 KIA FORTE. AT FIRST IT WENT AWAY QUICKLY AFTER STARTUP BUT THEN WHEN IT GOT COLDER THAT WINTER IT GOT NOTICEABLY LOUDER AND IS NOW CONSTANTLY PRESENT AT 157,930 MILES, SPEEDING UP AS I ACCELERATE THE VEHICLE. I BROUGHT THE CAR TO MY MECHANIC AT AROUND 128,800 MILES AND HE SAID THAT I WOULD NEED TO HAVE THE ENGINE TAKEN APART TO DO MORE DIAGNOSIS AND THAT IT MIGHT BE BETTER TO JUST DRIVE IT TO SEE IF IT GETS WORSE. I'VE GOTTEN DOCUMENTED REGULAR OIL CHANGES SINCE I WAS THE OWNER IN 2017, SWITCHING TO THE KIA DEALERSHIP AT MY MECHANIC'S SUGGESTION AFTER HAVING THEM CHECK OUT THE TAPPING/TICKING ISSUE. THESE OIL CHANGES HAVE NOT RESOLVED THE PROBLEM, INSTEAD IT'S CONTINUING THROUGHOUT THE YEAR WITH EACH WINTER MAKING IT SLOWLY GET WORSE. IN DOING SOME SEARCHES, I'M NOT ALONE IN MY EXPERIENCE AND I'M APPARENTLY LUCKY THAT I'VE MADE IT THIS LONG WITH MY THETA II ENGINE. WHEN THE RECALL CAMPAIGN BEGAN FOR THE GDI ENGINES I WAS HOPEFUL THAT KIA WOULD DO THE RIGHT THING AND INCLUDE THE MPI ENGINES. HOWEVER, WHILE THEY HAVE EXPANDED THE RECALL TO INCLUDE MPI ENGINES, THEY HAVE NOT EXPANDED IT TO INCLUDE 2.0L MPI ENGINES WITH THE SAME COMPONENTS THAT CAN WEAR EXCESSIVELY INCLUDING CONNECTING RODS/CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS. MANY 2.0L MPI OWNERS HAVE EXPERIENCED FAILURES, INCLUDING FELLOW ENTHUSIASTS THAT LOVE AND TAKE CARE OF OUR VEHICLES, AND I WORRY ABOUT THE DANGER THAT CAN OCCUR WITH A SUDDENLY FAILING ENGINE, LET ALONE THE POTENTIAL FIRE RISKS. I BELIEVE THAT THE 2.0L MPI ENGINE KIA FORTE MODELS SHOULD ALSO BE INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. I HAVE ATTACHED DOCUMENTATION FROM PARTS DIAGRAMS THAT SHOW THE PARTS COMMONALITY BETWEEN THE 2.4 MPI AND 2.0L MPI ENGINES. I

• 12/08/2023· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

  The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

• 12/08/2020· ENGINE

  I WAS DRIVING AND ALL OF THE SUDDEN THE ENGINE MADE A REALLY LOUD KNOCKING NOISE. UNSAFE TO DRIVE AT THIS TIME. HAS A CONSISTENT KNOCKING IN THE ENGINE WHEN THE CAR IS RUNNING. NO EXPLANATION AS TO WHAT CAUSED THE ISSUE.

• 12/07/2020· ENGINE

  TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 KIA FORTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING OR WHEN WARMING UP THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL KNOCKING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL FUEL ODOR INSIDE THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR CONDITIONING COMPRESSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE OF THE KNOCKING SOUND RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN BACK TO THE MECHANIC OR A KIA DEALER. THE CONTACT MENTIONED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V750000 (ENGINE) AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE SAME FAILURE LISTED IN THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 122,000.

• 12/06/2021· ENGINE

  The engine failed and the car broke down while driving one of the busiest highways in Texas. The engine has a risk of catch fire too apparently. I have received a diagnostic from an independent mechanic who was able to confirm the problem as total engine failure due to manufacturer oversight. (H&H Auto Repair, 512.863.4411 located at 2524 N Austin ave. Georgetown, tx 78626) The manufacturer has informed me that i can have it brought of which I will be responsible for towing the car as well as for replacing the engine, expecting to cost several thousand dollars. No police have no been involved and the insurance does not cover mechanical work. There was NO indication at all prior to failure.

• 12/06/2020· ENGINE

  2012 KIA FORTE KOUP CAR WILL SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVEING AND VERY LOUD KNOCK IN THE ENGINE TOOK IT TO KIA IN LANCASTER OHIO VEHICLE THROWING NO CODES WHY IS THIS ENGINE NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL I HAVE SEEN OTHERS ASK THE VERY SAME QUESTION FOR EXACT VEHICLE

• 12/05/2019· STEERING,AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

  THE STEERING WHEEL CLICKS REALLY BAD. MY STEERING WHEEL COMPONENTS ARE NO LONGER WORKING. THE AIRBAG LIGHT HAS ALSO COME ON WITH THESE ISSUES.

• 12/04/2023· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

  I have had this car for only a couple of months and all of a sudden every time I excelerate my car wont move and it will either jerk or wont go unless you take your foot off the gas then redo it. Then we find out there was a recall now I am scared to drive my car at all. My car has the tire pressure light flashing, the abs light, the brake light, and traction control light on.

• 12/03/2021· EXTERIOR LIGHTINGFire

  I believe that something within brake light assembly has caught fire at one time. The plastic I. Which holds the brake light bulb is melted to the point that I had to purchase a new brake light assembly because I can no longer replace the bulb because it is melted beyond repair.

• 12/03/2020· ENGINEFire

  BACK IN 2018 MY ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE AS I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. I HAD TO GET MY CAR TOWED TO A SHOP AND THEY SAID THAT MY ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I'VE HAD KEPT REGULAR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE WITH THE VEHICLE. UPON FURTHER RESEARCH THE 2012 FORTE USES HYUNDAI AND KIA'S 'THETA II' ENGINE. THE THETA II ENGINES COULD HAVE CATASTROPHIC FAILURE DUE TO A MANUFACTURING PROCESS ISSUE. SURE ENOUGH I DID INDEED HAVE ENGINE FAILURE AND HAD TO PAY AN ARM AND A LEG TO REPLACE MY ENGINE. NOW I FEAR THAT THIS SECOND ENGINE WILL FOLLOW SUIT. ONLY SOME MODELS FELL UNDER THE RECALL BUT KIA REALLY NEEDS TO CONSIDER THE 2012 FORTE MODELS AND ANY OTHER MODEL THAT FALLS IN RANGE. DEFINITELY A SAFETY ISSUE AND KIA NEEDS TO BE RESPONSIBLE! I HAD TO CALL EMERGENCY SERVICES TO RESPOND TO MAKE SURE THE FIRE WENT OUT.

• 12/02/2019· ENGINE

  I BOUGHT MY 2012 KIA FORTE 2.0L WITH 30,000 MILES 3 YEARS AGO. I NOW HAVE 100,955 MILES. MAINTENANCE HAS BEEN KEPT UP AND VEHICLE HAS BEEN WORKING FINE WITH NO ISSUES. MY HUSBAND WAS DRIVING AND WAS AT A STOP LIGHT WHEN THE CAR JUST SHUT DOWN. WHEN YOU WOULD TURN THE KEY YOU WOULD HERE 1 CLICK AND THEN NOTHING. WE BOUGHT A STARTER BECAUSE WE TESTED THE STARTER ON THE VEHICLE AND IT WAS BAD. STILL EVEN AFTER REPLACING THE STARTER YOU WOULD ONLY HEAR ONE CLICK. I HAD A MECHANIC COME LOOK AT THE CAR ONLY TO TELL ME THAT MY ENGINE HAS LOCKED UP. SAYS ITS CAUSED BY POOR MAINTENANCE AND/OR BAD DESIGN. HE SAID THE FIRST THING HE CHECKED WAS THE MAINTENANCE AND EVERYTHING WAS PERFECT ON THE CAR, BUT AGAIN MY ENGINE WAS LOCKED UP.

• 11/29/2020· ENGINE

  DRIVING WHEN IT STALLED ALONG WITH MINOR SMOKING FROM ENGINE AREA ON SEVAERAL OCCASIONS. I CONTACTED MY LOCAL KIA TO SEE IF THEY MAY HAVE INSIGHT AS TO WHAT MIHJT BE THE CAUSE ONLY TO BE TOLD THEY WOULD NEED TO INDSPECT CAR ALONG WITH A HEFTY HOURLY FEE. AND WITHIN SEVERAL DAYS IT STALLED , THE ENGINE CAME ON THEN DIED. I TOWED CAR HOME. IT WOUL START AND RUN FOR APPR. 2 MINUTESWITH A VERY LOUD KNOCKING NOISE. I THEN HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO MECHANIC SHOP TO HAVE IT CHECKED TO BE TOLD IT WAS BLOWN DUE TO THROWED RODS AND WOULD NEED AN ENGINE REPLACEMENT WGICH I DID HAVE DONE. IT WAS BROUGHT TO MY ATTENTION BY THE SHOP TO THE ISSUES KIA HAD HAD AND WAS HAVING WITH THE THETA ENGINE AS THATS WHAT MY CAR HAD. IVE CONTACTED THE MAIN KIA OFFICE WITH MY ISSUE AND COMPLAINT ONLY TO BE TOLD MY CAR WAS NOT ON THE RECALL LIST AND THEY COULDD NOT ASSIST ME AND DECLINED ANY OTHER CALLS IVE TRIEDTO PLACE TO THEM.

• 11/27/2020· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

  THE NHTSA WEBSITE SAYS I HAVE A RECALL UNDER MY VIN NUMBER BUT WHEN I GO TO THE KIA WEBSITE AND ENTER IT FOR SERVICE IT SAYS NO RECALL FOUND, SO I CAN NOT HAVE IT REPAIRED.

• 11/26/2014· STRUCTURE

  THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED I WAS DRIVING AROUND 45MPH AND I HIT A BUMP ON THE ROAD AND ALL OF THE SUDDEN REAR HATCH WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND AFTER I PULLED OVER AND CHECKED THE REAR HATCH AND IT HAD COME OPEN WERE IT WAS AJAR BUT THE HATCH HASN'T BEEN USED IN A COUPLE DAYS. THE SECOND TIME A FEW WEEKS LATER THE SAME THING I HIT A BUMP AND THE WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND THIS TIME I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY JUST TOLD ME TO CLOSE IT HARDER AND I HAVE CLOSED IT HOW I WAS SHOWED EVER SINCE, BUT IT STILL HAPPENS ABOUT ONCE A MONTH AFTER I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP. *TR

• 11/25/2018· AIR BAGS

  I HAVE CONTACTED THE KIA DEALERSHIP IN TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA 3 TIMES WITH NO SUCCESS AT A SERVICE REQUEST FOR A RECALL. TWICE WAS BY PHONE WHERE I TALKED TO MULTIPLE PEOPLE ABOUT SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT FOR THE RECALL ON MY CAR. BOTH TIMES I LEFT MY NAME, NUMBER, AND MY VIN. THE PHONE CALLS WERE 3 DAYS APART. I THEN CONTACTED THEM A THIRD TIME USING THEIR ONLINE SERVICE REQUEST. IT STATED THAT SOMEONE WOULD CONTACT ME WITHIN 48 HOURS BUT IT HAS BEEN AT LEAST 5 DAYS.

• 11/24/2023· ENGINEFire

  The contact owned a 2012 KIA Forte. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while her grandson was driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed. The contact's grandson stopped the vehicle and noticed a glow coming from under the front hood. The contact's grandson and his brother exited the vehicle. The vehicle burst into flames. The contacts grandsons flagged down a nearby driver and asked them to call the fire department. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. A fire report was filed. The were no injuries. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000. 

• 11/23/2022· ENGINE

  Car was at KIA dealer for engine noise with 136,000 miles. They performed the knock sensor update and said the engine noise was belts. At 150,000 miles car was at a shop for oil change. They said there are chunks in the oil and engine makes a lot of noise. At 162,000 miles car went into limp mode won’t go over 50 mph. Had car towed to KIA dealer they said the engine was covered under replacement recall. Kia emailed me a quote to do repairs on the car. The quote included a new engine under warranty for ni cost. I told them to replace belts and the engine replacement. The KIA dealer ordered the new engine and removed the old engine. Then called me and said KIA would not cover the engine replacement. I asked what my options are and they said I would have to pay $5,300.00 for new engine or put the old engine back in. This engine has been a problem for the last 2 years like millions of other KIA vehicles. This is a fire safety hazard, I was never notified of the recall!

• 11/19/2014· SERVICE BRAKES

  LEFT REAR BRAKE "WORE OUT" AND THE ENTIRE BRAKING SYSTEM WAS SUGGESTED TO BE REPLACED. THE REAR AXLE BRAKES WERE AT OUR COST. KIA REGIONAL CLAIMS THIS IS "NORMAL" AS THE DEALERSHIP (FICCILLO KIA, LIVERPOOL, NY) SAYS THEY HAVE "SEEN THIS BEFORE." THAT BOTHERS ME. IF IS A KNOWN PROBLEM...........? KIA REGIONAL HAS STOPPED RESPONDING. *TR

• 11/16/2023· ENGINE

  The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle briefly jerked before returning to normal functionality. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the camshaft. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V750000 (Engine) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 139,000.

• 11/14/2018· AIR BAGS

  TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 KIA FORTE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V363000 (AIR BAGS) BY VALUE KIA (6915 ESSINGTON AVE, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19153, 215-937-1000). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REMEDY WAS INADEQUATE BECAUSE THE AIR BAG INDICATOR CONTINUED TO ILLUMINATE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 34,480.

• 11/14/2018· EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER

  BLINKER LIGHTS, WINDSHIELD WIPERS, AIR CONDITIONER, HEATER,ON THE CAR CONSTANTLY HAVE TO REPAIR MUST BE DEFECTIVE. AS WELL AS FUEL ISSUES WITH THE CAR.

• 11/11/2023· ENGINE

  I own a 2012 Kia Forte . My engine started knocking, ticking sound. A mechanic used a mechanics stethoscope and the cylinder is collapsed, bad lifter. I always keep the oil changed regularly since the day I purchased. This is the same problem reported by thousands of Kia owners. I expect Kia to cover a new engine as I know a lawsuit was filed for the same year and model that I have and they covered the replacement of engines.

• 11/11/2015· EXTERIOR LIGHTING

  BRAKE LIGHTS NOT WORKING. TAIL LIGHTS AND TURN SIGNAL LIGHTS WORKING FINE, BUT BRAKE LIGHTS FAIL. NO FUSE ISSUE.

• 11/09/2018· AIR BAGS

  TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 KIA FORTE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V363000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED ORLANDO KIA NORTH AT (888) 696-5097 (LOCATED AT 625 N US HWY 17 92, LONGWOOD, FL 32750) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.