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BD · Sedan

2019 Kia Forte

Common problems & what to know before you buy

Before you message the seller, know the documented failure patterns, repair cost exposure, and risk level for the 2019 Kia Forte.

Common problems

What to watch for on the 2019 Kia Forte

critical·2.0L Smartstream

Piston Oil Ring Failure (Recall)

Some early engines were recalled because improperly heat-treated piston oil rings can lead to oil consumption and engine damage.

Typical repair cost
$4,000 – $8,000

Which of these apply to your 2019 Forte?

Your guide shows which apply to the exact car, and what to ask the seller.

Safety record

Recalls on the 2019 Kia Forte

Recall·18V771000

Exterior lighting: headlights

The headlights may not have been manufactured with the correct low beam aiming.

Recall·20V459000

Power train: axle shaft

The left front axle driveshaft may not have been heat-treated, which can cause it to break.

Source: NHTSA

Owner complaints

What 150 owners reported

Power train47
Engine22
Electrical system20
Steering9

Source: NHTSA

Specifications

2019 Kia Forte at a glance

Trims
EXFEGT-LineLXS
Engine
2.0L 4-Cylinder
Transmission
CVT, Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
FWD
Fuel
Gasoline
Body style
Sedan
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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What are the common problems with the 2019 Kia Forte?

Owners have filed 150 complaints about the 2019 Kia Forte with NHTSA, most often about the power train. There are 2 recall campaigns covering this model year. Known problems on its engines include piston oil ring failure. Squeezed's free research-backed buyer guide cross-references these against documented failure patterns and mileage-stage risks, sorted by severity, in about a minute.

Is the 2019 Kia Forte reliable?

Reliability depends heavily on the specific configuration and how the car was maintained. Start with the 2 open recall campaigns on this model year and confirm the work was completed. Generate a Squeezed buyer guide for this exact vehicle to see a reliability snapshot, repair-cost exposure, and the questions to ask the seller before you buy.

Should I still get a pre-purchase inspection on a 2019 Kia Forte?

Always. A Squeezed buyer guide is the triage step before the inspection: it shows you the documented failure patterns and what to check so you can decide which 2019 Kia Forte listings are even worth a mechanic's time, then walk into the PPI knowing exactly what to look for.

Squeezed is a buyer guide based on public data and industry patterns, not a mechanical inspection. Always get a professional pre-purchase inspection before you buy.