The 2022 KIA Forte has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 22 owner complaints on file for the 2022 KIA Forte. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Steering (3), Engine (3), Unknown Or Other (3).
Forte reliability snapshot
75/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.0/5
RepairPal rating (high)
$451
Avg annual repair cost vs $526 category avg
#6/36
Ranking in compact cars · better than 83% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the KIA Forte before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Steering3
Engine3
Unknown Or Other3
Power Train2
Engine And Engine Cooling2
Seat Belts1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2022 KIA Forte
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect steering for inconsistent tension and alignment issues
☐Check for transmission slipping or jerking during test drive
☐Verify engine oil for metal particles indicating potential damage
☐Test air conditioning for functionality and check condenser for damage
☐Ensure all warning lights are off during operation, especially check engine light
☐Confirm presence of a spare tire or plan for roadside assistance
☐Inspect headlights for adequate illumination at night
What owners reported
2022 KIA Forte owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 3 crashes, 1 fire and 2 injuries to NHTSA for the 2022 KIA Forte. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints3
STEERING
Owners of the 2022 KIA Forte report issues with steering, including inconsistent tension and alignment problems, typically beginning around 21,000 miles. Symptoms include the steering wheel unpredictably loosening and tightening, particularly at highway speeds, leading to difficulty maintaining control. One owner reports a crash attributed to steering malfunction post-recall repair. Another owner describes a fractured control arm causing suspension misalignment and a potential loss-of-control risk, though no impact was reported. These issues suggest potential safety implications, including crashes and loss of control, that prospective buyers should consider.
Owners of the 2022 Kia Forte report issues related to the engine, particularly involving the check engine light and potential engine damage. Complaints frequently mention the check engine light illuminating intermittently, with some owners experiencing hesitation during acceleration followed by a sudden surge. One owner describes finding metal particles in the oil at approximately 76,000 miles, suggesting possible engine damage. Another report indicates that a dealership advised driving until engine seizure, which raises potential safety concerns. These issues typically arise within the first few years of ownership, with mileage around 76,000 being noted in one case.
Owner complaints3
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2022 KIA Forte report a few distinct issues. One complaint describes the ability to remove the ignition key while the vehicle is still in drive, leading to unintended vehicle movement, which could pose a safety risk. Another owner notes the absence of a spare tire, expressing concern over its potential impact on safety during emergencies. Additionally, an air conditioning problem is reported, where a structural design flaw allegedly allows road debris to damage the AC condenser, leading to expensive repairs not covered under warranty. These issues are reported shortly after purchase, indicating they may occur within the first year of ownership.
Owner complaints2
POWER TRAIN
Owners of the 2022 Kia Forte report recurring transmission issues, with symptoms including failure to shift into the intended gear, jerking motions, and stalling upon acceleration. These problems often occur without any warning lights initially, though some owners later see the check engine light. Complaints frequently mention these issues emerging around 32,000 miles or within the first year of ownership. Safety concerns are noted, as one owner describes the vehicle immobilizing in traffic due to overheating, posing a potential risk of collision. Prospective buyers should be aware of these transmission-related issues and the need for potential repairs.
Owner complaints2
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Owners of the 2022 Kia Forte report issues related to engine failure and cooling system problems. Complaints frequently mention vehicles losing power or stalling, often accompanied by illuminated warning lights, such as oil pressure and high engine temperature. Engine failures are noted at relatively low mileages, around 608 to 21,840 miles, with causes including missing oil drain plugs and faulty engine pulley bolts leading to overheating. These issues result in significant engine damage necessitating engine replacement and pose safety risks due to sudden loss of motive power while driving. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these potential problems and check for any related repairs or service history.
2022 Forte recalls (1)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2022 Forte. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
STEERINGNHTSA 22V304000May 5, 2022
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Rio and Forte vehicles. A bolt in the steering column may not be secured properly, which can cause the steering column to detach from the steering rack and result in a loss of steering control.
Consequence: Loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will tighten the lower steering column u-joint retention bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall SC235.
Used-market value
2022 KIA Forte resale snapshot
76.3%estimated value retained after 5 years
600listings in the model-level benchmark
$18,990median asking price from 60 listings
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2022 KIA Forte demonstrates above-average reliability with a score of 84 out of 100, surpassing the segment average of 70. This suggests a solid performance in terms of dependability for prospective buyers. The vehicle has a limited recall history, indicating effective initial quality control.
Complaints are relatively low and distributed across several categories, including steering, engine, and powertrain issues, without a single area of significant concern. This distribution suggests no pervasive systemic issues within the model. As it is in the fourth year of its generation, the Forte benefits from refinements typically seen in later production years.
Overall, the 2022 KIA Forte presents a low risk for buyers seeking a reliable compact car, with its performance metrics indicating a dependable choice within its class.
What you get in a 2022 Kia Forte report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
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2022 Kia Forte — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2022 Kia Forte reliable?
The 2022 KIA Forte demonstrates above-average reliability with a score of 84 out of 100, surpassing the segment average of 70. This suggests a solid performance in terms of dependability for prospective buyers. The vehicle has a limited recall history, indicating effective initial quality control.
How many recalls does the 2022 Kia Forte have?
1 NHTSA safety recall has been issued for the 2022 Kia Forte. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2022 Kia Forte problems?
The most-reported 2022 Kia Forte problem areas are: Steering (3), Engine (3), Unknown Or Other (3).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2022 Kia Forte?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2022 Kia Forte, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.