MYRModel Year Report

2012 Kia Forte Koup

○ Not enough data
2012 Kia Forte Koup
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:56:02.204Z

Only 14 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Only 14 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

Complaints
14

Too few to rank

Recalls
4

Campaigns on file for 2012

Investigations
4

Opened by NHTSA

Top problem
—

Not enough data

Complaints per year

2010: 11 complaints 2010 2011: 8 complaints 2011 2012: 14 complaints 2012 14 2013: 16 complaints 2013 2014: 1 complaint 2014 2015: 0 complaints 2015 2016: 2 complaints 2016 2017: 0 complaints 2017
2010: 11 complaints 2010 2011: 8 complaints 2011 2012: 14 complaints 2012 14 2013: 16 complaints 2013 2014: 1 complaint 2014 2015: 0 complaints 2015 2016: 2 complaints 2016 2017: 0 complaints 2017
2010: 11 complaints 2010 2011: 8 complaints 2011 2012: 14 complaints 2012 14 2013: 16 complaints 2013 2014: 1 complaint 2014 2015: 0 complaints 2015 2016: 2 complaints 2016 2017: 0 complaints 2017

2012: 14 complaints

View as data table
YearComplaints
201011
20118
201214
201316
20141
20150
20162
20170

Known problem areas

Only 14 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Engine

13 of 14 total reports mention: engine.

Show complaint excerpts

The contact owns a 2012 Kia Forte Koup. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being serviced, white smoke was coming from under the hood. While the independent mechanic was starting the vehicle, there was smoke coming from the vehicle.

NHTSA ODI report, 2025-06-09

I am the original owner of a 2012 Kia Forte Koup sx with the 2.4 liter theta ii engine that is being recalled on a limited basis by Kia under NHTSA SC147.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-06-05

On the way to a scheduled appointment with Kia for a check engine light the car stalled on a city street. It started rough after and then stalled again 2 miles after that on a curved city intersection.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-02-15

Also filed under Vehicle speed control

Vehicle speed control

1 of 14 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.

Power train

1 of 14 total reports mentions: power train.

Electrical system

1 of 14 total reports mentions: electrical system.

Air bags

1 of 14 total reports mentions: air bags.

Safety timeline

4 recalls · 4 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

  1. R
    2018-01-30Service brakes, hydraulic17V773000 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.

    Remedy: 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.

    Check if this car was fixed →

  2. I
    2018-03-16Preliminary evaluationClosed 2019-08-30 Air bags may be disabled during crash
  3. R
    2018-09-28Air bags18V363000 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.

    Remedy: 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.

    Check if this car was fixed →

  4. R
    2021-01-25Engine20V750000 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.

    Remedy: 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.

    Check if this car was fixed →

  5. I
    2021-12-22Engineering analysisClosed 2024-02-05 Engine Fires
  6. I
    2022-09-12Defect petitionClosed 2023-12-12 Loss of Motive Power
  7. I
    2023-11-17Audit queryOpen Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
  8. R
    2024-03-29Service brakes, hydraulic23V652000 Kia America, Inc.

    Remedy: 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.

    Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2012 Kia Forte Koup — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Engine: 13 reports on file for this year.
  • Vehicle speed control: 1 report on file for this year.
  • Power train: 1 report on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

  • Recall 17V773000 · Service brakes, hydraulic
  • Recall 18V363000 · Air bags
  • Recall 20V750000 · Engine
  • Recall 23V652000 · Service brakes, hydraulic
Inspected by ______________ Date ______________

FAQ

Is the 2012 Kia Forte Koup reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Kia Forte Koup?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 93% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2012 Kia Forte Koup have?
4 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.