Is the 2015 Kia Forte reliable?

Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2015 Kia Forte is rated "worse than typical".

What are the most common problems with the 2015 Kia Forte?

The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 61% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2015 Kia Forte have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

2015 Kia Forte

◆ Worse than typical

2015 Kia Forte
BUILT 2026-10-10

This year had 30% to 100% more complaints than this model's typical year.

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.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 260
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 2
Top problem: Engine

Complaints per year

2015: 260 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2009	1
2010	221
2011	153
2012	291
2013	195
2014	443
2015	260
2016	136
2017	305
2018	135
2019	147
2020	77
2021	69
2022	27
2023	63
2024	25

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Engine

61% · 158 reports

CRASHFIREINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

My car stopped while I was driving and I had a catastrophic engine failure. I had to use my engine warranty and also out of pocket pay. I want to issue a warning to the dealer who sold me this vehicle.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-12-30

Also filed under Forward collision avoidance and vehicle speed control

Tl* the contact owns a 2015 Kia Forte. While driving at an unknown speed, smoke appeared under the hood. The contact was able to coast the vehicle to the road shoulder. The contact unlatched the hood and found flames under the hood.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-06-11

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.

NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-30

Electrical system

11% · 29 reports

Most commonly citing spark plugs and starter assembly.

FIRE

Air bags

9% · 23 reports

CRASHINJURYDEATH

Show complaint excerpts

Airbags did not deploy in a single-car front end collision. The driver fell asleep at the wheel on interstate 195 in swansea ma. The car left the roadway to the left at highway speed (Approximately 65 MPH) and crashed into the wooded median.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-03-23

Our car was rolled end over end and airbags did not deploy at all.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-03-17

Driver was in middle lane driving around 55 MPH. For some unknown reason, driver lost control of vehicle. Car began flipping while still in the roadway, eventually hit a guard rail and continued flipping. Driver was ejected and killed.

NHTSA ODI report, 2015-01-27

Also filed under Steering and vehicle speed control

Power train

7% · 17 reports

CRASH

Service brakes

6% · 16 reports

Most commonly citing hydraulic.

CRASHINJURY

Safety timeline

1 recall · 2 investigations · oldest first

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

▮
2015Complaint volume 260 complaints filed for this model year.
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 →
I
2021-12-22Engineering analysisClosed 2024-02-05 Engine Fires
I
2022-09-12Defect petitionClosed 2023-12-12 Loss of Motive Power

Buy-smart checklist

2015 Kia Forte — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Engine: 158 reports on file for this year.
Electrical system: 29 reports on file for this year.
Air bags: 23 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 20V750000 · Engine

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years3 years

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 2015 Kia Forte reliable?: Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2015 Kia Forte is rated "worse than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2015 Kia Forte?: The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 61% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2015 Kia Forte have?: 1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-09 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.