Is the 2020 Kia Forte reliable?

Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2020 Kia Forte is rated "better than typical".

What are the most common problems with the 2020 Kia Forte?

The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 26% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2020 Kia Forte have?

No recalls are on file for this model year.

2020 Kia Forte

▲ Better than typical

2020 Kia Forte
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:41:20.560Z

This year had at least 30% fewer 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: 78
Recalls: 0
Investigations: 0
Top problem: Engine

Complaints per year

2020: 78 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2009	1
2010	221
2011	154
2012	291
2013	195
2014	443
2015	262
2016	136
2017	305
2018	135
2019	150
2020	78
2021	69
2022	27
2023	65
2024	25

Known problem areas

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

Engine

26% · 20 reports

FIRE

Show complaint excerpts

My engine is failing due to excessive oil consumption despite having proof of regular oil changes and maintenance. My car has been inspected, and the dealer has stated this is due to a known manufacture defect.

NHTSA ODI report, 2026-10-06

I experienced a check engine light and had the vehicle diagnosed with codes P0017 and P0014.

NHTSA ODI report, 2026-08-20

Also filed under Power train

Power train

21% · 16 reports

CRASHINJURY

Electrical system

14% · 11 reports

Most commonly citing key/sender.

Forward collision avoidance

8% · 6 reports

Most commonly citing warnings and adaptive cruise control.

Air bags

6% · 5 reports

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

I was turning left through a green light onto a city road when a car coming from the left side ran a red light going 50 miles an hour in a 35 miles an hour road, crashing into the side of my car.

NHTSA ODI report, 2020-03-18

Safety timeline

No recalls on file for this model year.

0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first

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

Buy-smart checklist

2020 Kia Forte — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Engine: 20 reports on file for this year.
Power train: 16 reports on file for this year.
Electrical system: 11 reports on file for this year.

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years2 years

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 2020 Kia Forte reliable?: Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2020 Kia Forte is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Kia Forte?: The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 26% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2020 Kia Forte have?: No recalls are on file for this model year.

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