2012 Kia Forte
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 292 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 3rd highest complaint count among 16 Forte model years with reports.
Of the 2012 reports, 20 involved a crash and 23 involved a fire. 16 people were injured and 3 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideSep 25, 2023
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Campaign 23V652000 on NHTSA.gov
EngineDec 2, 2020
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia dealers will update the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software, free of charge. The recall began January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
Campaign 20V750000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, air bag/restraint control moduleJun 1, 2018
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia Forte, Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Kia Optima and 2011-2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners from deploying.
If the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
Kia will notify owners. For model year 2011 Sedona vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to verify the ACU part number and, if necessary, install an extension wire harness kit between the ACU Connector and the Vehicle Harness Connector. For all other affected vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to install the extension wire harness kit. The recall began September 28, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC165.
Campaign 18V363000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, pedals and linkagesDec 1, 2017
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Forte and Forte Koup vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released. This will allow the brake lights to remain illuminated continuously. It can also allow the shift lever to be moved without depressing the brake pedal, or activate the engine management brake pedal override feature.
If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 30, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC158.
Campaign 17V773000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
292 reports, newest first.
Service brakes, Oct 7, 2021
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start up. The contact stated that the ABS, the check engine and traction control warning lights, and an unknown warning light were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where she was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. Additionally, there was an ABS module electrical short. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 116,136.
Service brakes, Sep 9, 2021
The break pedal stopper pad deteriorated causing break lights to constantly illuminate.
Engine, Sep 5, 2021
Two months after the knock sensor update was completed the motor quit running. Prior to this update the car was running great. Even after the motor bearings supposedly were going bad, the car did not leak or burn oil or antifreeze and had been getting 26 miles per gallon in town. Had we traded in the car before the last update we were offered $5400, now the car is only work $800 in salvage. Kia has refused to assist us in any way on this matter and we are having to seek litigation to get some sort of restitution. If you can help this would be greatly appreciated. When the motor failed the car was traveling at highway speeds and just locked up. My daughter, who is 17 and was driving could have been killed as she had to go from the left lane to the right shoulder without any power or power assisted brakes/steering. This is completely unacceptable and Kia would not offer any compensation in the repair of the vehicle and now is seeking a signature absolving them of any liability in this matter.
Engine, Aug 20, 2021
Driving on highway the car made a noise and stalled. Pulled over and all the oil was on the highway. Kia dealership said a piston in the engine blew and a rod broke and made a hole in the engine block. Car is less than 10 years old. Car has 98,000 miles. Kia refuses to replace the engine because I’m not an original owner. The whole engine needs to be replaced
Air bags, Structure, Other or unspecified, Aug 18, 2021
My airbag light is on took it to dealership when the airbag recall came out to have it check and got it back with airbag light on. And when it rains water gets in the trunk and also my passenger and driver side floor board gets soaked it has begun to show signs of mold this really concerns me due to the fact i have health issues and having to drive a car with mold growing in it is a huge issue
Engine and engine cooling, Aug 16, 2021
2012 KIA FORTE. CONSUMER WRITES SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR VEHICLE REPAIRS. THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER APPROVED REIMBURSEMENT, BUT MAILED THE CHECK TO THE WRONG ADDRESS. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THEY WOULD CHANGE THE ADDRESS, CANCEL THE OLD CHECK AND MAIL ANOTHER. THE CONSUMER STATED MANUFACTURER HAD NOT CHANGED THE ADDRESS NOR ADMINISTERED ANOTHER CHECK.
Engine, Jul 15, 2021
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, he heard an abnormal clattering sound coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that no issues were found; however, the engine oil was changed. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred while driving. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer who informed the contact that he had to pay the cost for the oil change and an oil consumption would be performed. The contact declined. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the same dealer several times and the engine was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised that the vehicle could not be repaired under an unknown recall unless the VIN was included. A case was opened. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 77,000.
Engine, Jul 14, 2021, fire
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. The contact also stated that smoke was coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with the engine seals needing to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was relating the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 20V750000 (Engine). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure and informed the contact that the Vin was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.
Other or unspecified, Jul 14, 2021, fire
Driving up mountain road, heard a ‘pop’ and smelled smoke-like chemical odor.lost control of steering and battery icon came on. Was able to get into a turn out and exited the car. Saw orange flames under engine. No cell service in this are so flagged down a passing car who called 911. Fire truck came and put out the flames that had already engulfed and burned the car.
Engine, Jul 12, 2021
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V750000 (Engine) however, the vin was not included. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,903.
Air bags, Jul 11, 2021, crash
I was injured in a crash that happened Saturday at 232pm . My airbags did not deploy at 45 mph. Old women did a u turn into me. I was in left lane . I crash driver side front into her passenger doors. My steering is damaged and my side fender was hooked inward along with my side mirror being hit i thought my airbags recall issue was solved. Im in back and neck pain i went to hospital after and had xrays were the doctors where astonished by my non deployment when i told them the speed and showed photos
Engine, Jul 3, 2021
Purchased a used 2012 Kia Forte Koup 2.4L on 02/05/21. 4 months later, I was driving vehicle when I experienced engine failure. Towed to dealer who discovered a hole in the bottom of engine block. Needs new engine. Kia tested the ECU and sent the results to corporate Kia. 8 weeks has past with no update on replacing the recalled engine under warranty. Now trying to file claim under extended warranty. Cannot afford to replace engine out of pocket. Engine failed 4 months after purchasing.
Engine, Jul 1, 2021
Car was stalling. Engine light was not turning on, so I was unclear of issue. Took car to dealership on Tuesday, June 29th, at 9am for repair. Engine has recall. Car has since been at dealership, following repair test failure. Dealership refuses to offer loaner vehicle, but states repairs could take up to 3 weeks, as they have to wait for new engine to be delivered. I am without a vehicle and should not have to pay for a rental, as the damage is fault of Kia.
Engine, Jun 25, 2021
Was driving to work and the engine threw a rod out the block.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Jun 14, 2021
This complaint it about Kia Motors. My motor sent a rod through the block due to a recall. However, i called a week before because of rod knock that started on 05/22/21(blew 05/27/21) , i was told parts were ordered. A week after i was told that the engine blew. I towed it to a dealership (05/28/21) Its been an additonal 2 and a half weeks with no update as to when itll be repaired, no loaner offered. Ive already lost one job because of Kia's lack of quality control. This engine failure is common and i believe common enough to not have to wait this long for work to be done.
Engine, Jun 10, 2021
Was driving to work, motor developed rod knock and later blew up due to the knock. Which was caused by one of the recalls for this vehicle.
Electrical system, Engine, May 20, 2021
2012 Kia Forte Ex 2.0 I4 126k miles Daughter driving car to college, inside of vehicle filled with smoke, car engine stalled while on Hwy 430 in the middle of a construction zone. Barely made it to the shoulder of the road. I was close buy, I went and loaded up the car and took it home. Once home, I turned the ignition to on, to check for warning lights, None present! I looked under the car and could see oil! I looked all over the engine and discovered oil was coming from oil dipstick tube. I pulled the dipstick the rest of the way out and could see extreme metallic particles in oil. I drained what oil was left and the oil pan was full of fine metallic debris. I went ahead and changed the oil and started the car and the engine has an extreme knock, due to a common Kia failure. Faulty Rod main bearings. Contacted Kia and they told me to kick rocks. There’re corporate managers stated, “ I could care less if you ever bought a Kia and I could care less that the Rod Bearing failure is premature or a design flaw. We will not honor nor fix it.” This engine is in multiple Kia brands, they have recalled and replaced thousands of them. Since this engine is in a Forte, they stated my vin wasn’t in the selected range of defective engines. Even though, other models with the same engines are! Kia needs to stand behind and fix their faulty engines. My forte never had a “check engine “ light come on. The knock sensor never sent the car into limp mode and the vehicles pcm never acknowledged an issue to alert the driver of an impending disaster. Not only is my engine defective by Kia, they tampered with the vehicles software to where the knock sensor would never sense an impending problem, until the engine exploded in the consumer's face. Otherwise, the knock sensor would have alerted to an impending problem! Not one check engine light, not one ever came on! A computer scan also showed no stored codes, No active fault codes and No pending fault codes.
Engine, May 17, 2021
My Kia forte has 94k miles on it started making a ticking noise took it to a mechanic he said you need a new engine, Excuse me??? Looked online tons of people are having the same issue why no recall ???? please help!
Engine, May 8, 2021
CAR HAS LESS THAN 80,000 MILES AND I WAS DRIVING IT TODAY AND MADE A LOUD CLICKING NOISE. I PULLED OVER AND THE CAR STARTED SMOKING AND THEN I HEARD ALL THE OIL DRAIN OUT. I HAD A MECHANIC TO LOOK AT IT AND HE FOUND PIECES OF THE MOTOR BROKE OR CRANK CASING. I HAD TO GET A TOW TRUCK TO PARK IT AT MY HOUSE. I HAVE PICTURES BUT IT SAYS IT'S TO BIG TO UPLOAD.
Engine, Apr 12, 2021
MY VEHICLE IS DRIVEN ONLY MINIMALLY WITH PRESENTLY 23540 MILES REGISTERED ON THE ODOMETER. SINCE NEW, THE ENGINE HAS ALWAYS EXPERIENCED PRE-IGNITION AND PINGING, ESPECIALLY UNDER LIGHT LOAD. I SUSPECT A PROBLEM WITH THE SPARK TIMING EXISTS. THE SECOND PROBLEM IS A PISTON SLAPPING SOUND HEARD DURING COLD ENGINE OPERATION. IT IS CERTAINLY NOT A NORMAL SOUND. BOTH PROBLEMS WERE REPORTED SOON AFTER VEHICLE PURCHASE IN 2012. THE SERVICE DEALERSHIP CONCLUDED THAT THE SOUNDS WERE NORMAL FOR THE ENGINE DESIGN. MY CONCERN IS THAT EITHER CONDITION CAN LEAD TO AN ENGINE FIRE.
Structure, Apr 12, 2021
PREVIOUSLY, THERE WAS A RECALL FOR UNDER BODY RUST. I HAD THAT FIXED. HOWEVER, THE RUST PROBLEM EXTENDS TO THE PAINT JOB AND LITTLE ORANGE DOTS OF RUST HAVE BEEN ON THE VEHICLE IN MANY PLACES.
Engine, Apr 8, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 KIA FORTE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOSS MOTIVE POWER AND STALLED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVED ONTO THE ROAD SHOULDER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO VALLEY-HI KIA (14644 VALLEY CENTER DR, VICTORVILLE, CA 92395, (760) 955-0046) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED OR REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V750000 (ENGINE). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.
Air bags, Service brakes, Engine, Apr 5, 2021
THE ENGINE LIGHT SUDDENLY CAME ON AND ENGINE WAS TAPPING STALLING AND I SMELLED BURNT MELTED PLASTIC SMELL. THE OIL LIGHT WAS INTERMITTENTLY COMING ON AND OFF. THE FUEL WAS CONSUMED QUICKLY THAN NORMAL. I HAD BRAKES REMAING ENGAGED WHEN FOOT NOT PRESSING PEDAL AND COULD FEEL CONTACT TO ROAD. ENGINE HAS FAILED CAR WAS MOVING.
Engine, Apr 2, 2021
I HAVE A 2012 FORTE WITH 57,000 MILES. IT HAS DEVELOPED A ROD KNOCK TAPPING NOISE THAT SEEMS TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE WITH THESE KIA ENGINES IN THEIR VEHICLES. WHY IS THE 2.0L ENGINE NOT INCLUDED WITH THIS RECALL FROM JANUARY 2021? ON MARCH 26, 2021 DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, WHICH WE ALL KNOW IS NOT A GOOD THING FOR ANY VEHICLE. TOOK CAR TO THE KIA DEALER WERE THE MECHANIC SAID THAT HE WILL HAVE TO BREAKDOWN THE ENGINE TO TROUBLESHOOT WHAT COULD BE THE CAUSE OF THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMING ON. I NEED KIA MOTORS TO FIX THESE ONGOING PROBLEMS WITH THEIR 2.OL ENGINES.
Engine, Mar 9, 2021
I HAVE FINANCED A 2012 KIA FORTE HATCH BACK AND ON MAY 13TH 2020 I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY WHEN ALL THE SUDDEN THE CHECK ENGINE, CHECK OIL AND ALL THE LIGHTS CAME ON. THE VEHICLE STARTED TO DECELERATE, BECAME HARD TO STEER. I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND THE ENGINE DIED AND THE CAR WOULDN'T RESTART. I TOOK IT TO THE KIA DEALERSHIP AND ANOTHER MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD MY ENGINE HAD SPONTANEOUSLY FAILED. THE CAR SAT IN MY GARAGE SINCE AND ON 2/8/2021 I RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER FROM KIA IN THE MAIL. I HAD MY VEHICLE TOWED TO KIA ON 2/9/2021 AND IT HAS BEEN SITTING THERE SINCE. I WAS TOLD TODAY THAT MY CAR WON'T PASS OR FAIL THE TEST AND IS THEREFORE NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL AND MY CAR WON'T BE REPAIRED. I AM NOW EXPECTED TO KEEP MAKING MONTHLY PAYMENTS ON THE FINANCE NOTE AND THE INSURANCE FOR A VEHICLE THAT DOESN'T RUN. I NEED TO HAVE THIS ISSUE RESOLVED.