2015 Kia Forte problems and complaints

Owners have filed 262 complaints with NHTSA about the 2015 Kia Forte. The most-reported areas: Engine (160), Unknown Or Other (31), Electrical System (29).

Key takeaways

  • 262 owner complaints on file with NHTSA.
  • 16 involve a crash, 20 a fire, 11 reported injuries.
  • Complaints are unverified owner reports; recalls are confirmed defects.
Complaints by component
ComponentComplaintsShare
Engine16061%
Unknown Or Other3112%
Electrical System2911%
Air Bags239%
Power Train176%
Service Brakes166%
Exterior Lighting135%
Fuel/Propulsion System104%
Vehicle Speed Control52%
Engine And Engine Cooling42%
Structure42%
Steering42%

One complaint can name several components, so shares add up to more than 100%.

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NHTSA 5-Star crash ratings
VersionOverallFrontSideRollover
2015 Kia Forte 4 DR FWD5/54/55/54/5
2015 Kia Forte 5 HB FWDNot ratedNot rated5/54/5

Latest complaints, as filed

Owner-written and unverified by NHTSA.

Engine - filed 2026-10-27

This is the report copy and reference number for 911. I have contacted Kia multiple times during lunch breaks sent emails, and they still are not responding even after photos were sent to them. They told me in 5 days I would here back form them an still Ive heard nothing.Reference # XXX The fire dep “# INCIDENT R...

Engine - filed 2026-10-26

On October the 14th, around 10:30 AM I noticed smoke coming from my car and acceleration was lost. The vehicle continued to smoke further. As I Had someone maneuver the car out of traffic into the parking lot.\n While reaching the parking lot, more smoke was noticed, so I dispatch the Riverside fire department. After ...

Engine - filed 2026-09-30

Vehicle has developed a severe knocking during acceleration, that stops during deceleration, and returns when in idle. I'm sure it is poison slap. I know there is an extension warranty, but the dealer says my car doesn't qualify. Then NHTSA has the SC200 safety recall. I need help with this car. My engine is fai...

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More for the 2015 Kia Forte

Complaints are reports filed by owners with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NHTSA publishes them without verifying them, and counts rise with how many cars were sold, so compare years of the same model rather than different models. Crash ratings are NHTSA's own 5-Star Safety Ratings results.