Vehicles / Kia / Forte / 2011

2011 Kia ForteUNDER FEDERAL INVESTIGATION

153 federal complaints (214 component records) · 3 recall campaigns on file · 3 federal investigations · 77 service bulletins · 4 Canadian recalls
See all 16 model years of the Kia Forte →
Engine
2.0L 4-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
25 city / 34 hwy
Federal complaints
153
Recall campaigns
3
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Engine & cooling
48
Air bags
35
Brakes
28
Power train
18
Electrical system
16
Other
13
Speed control
10
Body & structure
8
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 11 complaints01 years old: 6 complaints2 years old: 8 complaints3 years old: 7 complaints4 years old: 8 complaints5 years old: 11 complaints56 years old: 10 complaints7 years old: 25 complaints8 years old: 13 complaints9 years old: 10 complaints10 years old: 7 complaints1011 years old: 4 complaints12 years old: 12 complaints13 years old: 12 complaints14 years old: 7 complaints15 years old: 2 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 153 of 153 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 14 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 11 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 12 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 11 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 16 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 9 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 7 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 5 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 2 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 0 complaints200,000+ miles: 7 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 94 of 153 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Engine & cooling

48 complaint records6 fire reports1 crash report
"The NECU system failed and blew the engine and caused a fire no longer available for inspection. No move running. No warning lamps at all of any sort...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →

Air bags

35 complaint records1 fire report20 crash reports
"IN A MULTI HIT CAR ACCIDENT, INITIAL 30 MPH FRONT END, THEN 20 MPH REAR HIT. SEAT BELTS DID NOT LOCK, AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse air bags parts in the directory →

Brakes

28 complaint records3 fire reports3 crash reports
"BRAKE LINE BURST NEAR CENTER OF CAR WHILE TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY. MAINTAINED ENOUGH BRAKE PRESSURE TO COME TO A SAFE STOP. INVESTIGATION REVEALED EXCESSIVE RUSTING OF BRAKE LINES RUNNING FROM FRONT TO REAR OF VEHICLE, PARTICULARLY AT CONTACT POINTS WITH EACH RESTRAINT. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse brakes parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
AQ23002
opened Nov 2023
OPENService Brakes, HydraulicHyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023.
DP22003
opened Sep 2022
closed Dec 2023EngineLoss of Motive Power
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain...
PE18003
opened Mar 2018
closed Aug 2019Seat BeltsAir bags may be disabled during crash - led to recall 18V363000
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE18-003 on 3/16/18 to investigate incidents involving crashes, resulting in significant collision related damage, where the frontal airbags failed to deploy.

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
23V652000PARK OUTSIDEService Brakes, HydraulicKia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014...Normally free
18V363000Air BagsKia 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.Normally free
16V070000Power TrainKia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2011 Forte vehicles manufactured August 27, 2010, to November 11, 2010.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2023529
2023-09-26
Brakes276,225Issue: On certain vehicles, the brake hydraulic electronic control unit (HECU) could short circuit. Safety Risk: A short circuit could create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off.
2021040
2021-02-01
Engine48,787Issue: Kia Canada is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign that provides an update to the engine control module to detect potential problems before an engine fails.
2018301
2018-06-08
Airbag65,548On certain gasoline and hybrid engine vehicles, the circuits within the airbag control unit may become damaged.
2016061
2016-02-08
Powertrain1,402On certain vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions, the transmission’s fluid cooler hose may have been improperly manufactured.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
CS2311_TSB_R4
Jun 2026
StructureTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION: CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.
PI2102_OWNR_501
Mar 2026
EnginePRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (PI2102 FLIGHT #501) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting an important Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2010-2011 MY Kia Forte and Forte Koup vehicles equipped...
CS2311_OWNR_PC201
Dec 2025
StructureCUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: POSTCARD OWNER RENOTIFICATION (CS2311) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting Customer Satisfaction Campaign.
PS797
Dec 2025
Back Over PreventionPITSTOP: TECHNICAL OPERATIONS: EXTERNAL DAMAGE TO ULTRASONIC SENSOR: This Pitstop provides information related to Parking Distance Warning (PDW) alerts and repairs involving ultrasonic sensors.
PI2102_OWNR_401
Jul 2025
EnginePRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (PI2102) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2010-2011 MY Kia Forte and Forte Koup vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter MPI...
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
TSB_TRA046_R5
Apr 2025
Power TrainTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
PI2102YZ_TSB_R1
Nov 2024
EngineTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: SUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI2102Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.
PI2102_OWNR_301
Nov 2024
EnginePRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (PI2102) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in (PI2101) titled “Knock Sensor Detection...
CS2311_TSB_R3
Oct 2024
StructureTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
TSB_TRA046_R4
May 2024
Power TrainThis bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced.
PI2102_OWNR_201
Mar 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingPRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (PI2102) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2010-2011 MY Kia Forte & Forte Koup vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter engines to...
CS2311_TSB_R2
Feb 2024
Electrical SystemTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
CS2311A_OWNRTD
Dec 2023
StructureCUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia now has an additional vehicle modification available for installation to help deter or thwart attempted thefts.
CS2311_TSB_R1
Dec 2023
SteeringTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
CS2311_TSB
Dec 2023
SteeringTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin provides information to install a Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector on certain 2010-2022MY Kia vehicles outlined on page 13,...
CS2305L_OWNRTD2
Aug 2023
EquipmentCUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia is now making steering wheel lock devices available directly to certain Kia vehicle owners. These devices can help deter a theft attempt.
CS2305L_OWNRTD
Apr 2023
EquipmentCUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is now making steering wheel lock devices available directly to certain Kia vehicle owners. These devices can help deter a theft attempt.
CS2305L_OWNRYD
Mar 2023
EquipmentCUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is now making steering wheel lock devices available directly to certain Kia vehicle owners. These devices can help deter a theft attempt.
TSB_TRA046_R3
Nov 2022
Power TrainTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model.
PI2102YZ_TSB
Jun 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingSUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI2102Y/Z) - This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in (PI2102) titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement" for 2010-2011MY...
TSB_CHA084_R8
Oct 2021
SteeringTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
TSB_BOD055_R1
Sep 2021
StructureTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
PI2102_OWNR
Apr 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingPRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2010-2011 MY Kia Forte and Forte Koup vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter MPI engines to protect...
PI2102_TSB
Apr 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: THETA 2.4L MPI - KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM (KSDS) ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI2102) - This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to install the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) in order to...
PI2102_DP
Apr 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingPRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to protect the engine from excessive connecting...
PI2102_DSM
Apr 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingPRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to protect the...
PI2102_QA
Apr 2021
EquipmentPRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Product Improvement Campaign (PI2102).
TSB_CHA084_R7
Mar 2021
SteeringTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
TSB_CHA084_R6
Nov 2020
SteeringTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
TSB_CHA084_R5
Nov 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.
PS675
Aug 2020
Service BrakesPITSTOP - BRAKE CALIPER LEAK INSPECTION - This PITSTOP provides information related to a brake caliper fluid/oil substance found on some Kia vehicles, due to possible excess assembly oil applied during assembly.
TSB_TRA046_R1
Apr 2020
Power TrainTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: - TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model.
TSB_ELE148
Jan 2020
Exterior LightingTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HALOGEN HEAD LAMP LOW BEAM BULB CONNECTOR REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information regarding the procedure to repair the bulb connector on some 2010MY~ vehicles listed on the table below, which may exhibit a bulb connector concern.
TSBCHA084_R4
Nov 2019
Engine And Engine CoolingTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) Motor,...
TSBCHA084_R3
Oct 2019
SteeringTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TSB084_R3: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS)...
TSBBOD079_CLOSED
Jan 2019
StructureTSB: SERVICE ACTION: APPLICATION OF ADDITIONAL ANTICORROSION PROTECTION THROUGH PROTECTIVE SEALING (SA085) - CLOSED
PS067_R1
Oct 2018
EnginePITSTOP: CYLINDER HEAD STEEL BALL INSPECTION AND INSTALLATION - This Pitstop provides information regarding the inspection and installation of the steel sealing ball on: * 3.3L & 3.8L Lambda engines for 2007-2008MY Sorento (BL), * 2.0L Nu engines for 2010-2019MY Soul (AM, PS),...
PS539
Mar 2018
Engine And Engine CoolingPITSTOP - ENGINE COMPONENT RE-USE GUIDELINES - In general, parts and components removed during engine repairs should be considered serviceable, and should be thoroughly cleaned and transferred to the new engine.
TSBTRA047_R2
Feb 2018
Power TrainTSB - DRIVESHAFT SERVICEABILITY - This bulletin has been revised most recently to include additional information. This bulletin provides information regarding axle shaft serviceability for Kia vehicles equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.
TSBELE091R3
Nov 2017
Electrical SystemTSB - IDENTIFYING HEAD UNIT SOFTWARE VERSION FOR DIRECT EXCHANGE - This bulletin provides the procedure on how to identify and record the head unit software level on various head unit platforms and generations.
PS474
Jun 2017
Electrical SystemPITSTOP: TPMS SENSOR POSITION - When diagnosing TPMS-related DTCs, make sure you are investigating the correct sensor. The TPMS positioning from the manufacturer may be different from the positioning shown on a KDS.
PS493
Mar 2017
EquipmentTSB: DEFOGGING LOGIC ? NORMAL OPERATION, DISABLING, AND ENABLING - Starting with 2010MY, all Kia vehicles, except Rio (JB), incorporate a defogging logic to prevent the interior windows from becoming excessively fogged.
TSB-SC141R1
Feb 2017
StructureTSB: SC141 - SERVICE CAMPAIGN - APPLICATION OF ADDITIONAL ANTI-CORROSION MATERIAL - To improve customer satisfaction, Kia is launching this service campaign to apply additional anti-corrosion material to the underbody components of certain 2011-2014MY Sorento, 2011-2014MY Optima...
TSB-GEN085R1
Jan 2017
EquipmentTSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.?
PS469
Jan 2017
Engine And Engine CoolingPITSTOP: MANUAL EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS TEST FOR HARD TO FIND/SMALL LEAKS - If the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is illuminated with DTC(s) P0442, P0455, P0456, or P0457 (Evaporative Emissions System-Leak detected) and the evaporative (EVAP) leak self-test resulted in NTF, a...
SC141OWNERTD
Jan 2017
StructureSERVICE CAMPAIGN: OWNER LETTER - Advises Owners of certain 2011-2013 MY Forte and Forte Koup vehicles currently registered in the states where heavy amounts of road salt are used of a service campaign to add additional anti-corrosion material to underbody components of vehicle.
TSB-SC141
Dec 2016
StructureTSB: SC141 - SERVICE CAMPAIGN - APPLICATION OF ADDITIONAL ANTI-CORROSION MATERIAL - To improve customer satisfaction, Kia is launching this service campaign to apply additional anti-corrosion material to the underbody components of certain 2011-2014MY Sorento, 2011-2014MY Optima...
SC141DP
Dec 2016
StructureDEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO: SC141 - SERVICE CAMPAIGN - Attention: All Kia Dealer Principals - Kia Motors America, Inc. will be conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign, as a preventative measure, to apply additional anti-corrosion material to the underbody components of certain...
SC141DPSM
Dec 2016
StructureSERVICE MANAGER MEMO: SC141 - SERVICE CAMPAIGN - Attention: All Kia Service Managers - Kia Motors America, Inc. will be conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign, as a preventative measure, to apply additional anti-corrosion material to the underbody components of certain...
SC141QA
Dec 2016
StructureQUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN SC141 ? UNDERBODY ? ADDITIONAL ANTI-CORROSION TREATMENT
TSB-GEN085
Nov 2016
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityTSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?.
TSB-TRA055
Oct 2016
EquipmentTSB: INHIBITOR SWITCH DIAGNOSIS INFORMATION - This bulletin gives information regarding the steps to take regarding the diagnosis of the Inhibitor Switch.
PS266R1
Sep 2016
EquipmentPITSTOP: HVAC RECEIVER/DRYER - DESICCANT REPLACEMENT - IN THE EVENT OF A HVAC SYSTEM CONCERN IN WHICH METAL PARTICLES OR SHARDS HAVE CONTAMINATED THE SYSTEM, THE DESICCANT OR THE ENTIRE A/C RECEIVER/DRYER ASSEMBLY MAY NEED TO BE REPLACED.
PS443
Apr 2016
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityTSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones.
TSBSC129
Mar 2016
EquipmentVOLUNTARY SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN: A/T FLUID COOLER HOSE REPLACEMENT (SC 129) - THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES THE PROCEDURE TO REPLACE THE A/T COOLER HOSES IN CERTAIN 2011 MY FORTE (TD) VEHICLES PRODUCED FROM AUGUST 27, 2010 THROUGH NOVEMBER 11, 2010.
TSB SC129
Mar 2016
Power TrainTHIS BULLETIN PROVIDES THE PROCEDURE TO REPLACE THE A/T COOLER HOSES IN CERTAIN 2011 MY FORTE (TD) VEHICLES PRODUCED FROM AUGUST 27, 2010 THROUGH NOVEMBER 11, 2010. THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID COOLER HOSES MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY CURED DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS.
TSBSC126
Mar 2016
Electrical SystemVOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: ENGINE CONTROL MODULE SOFTWARE UPDATE (SC 126) - THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATED TO UPDATING THE SOFTWARE PROGRAMMING (CALIBRATION) OF THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) ON SOME 2011MY OPTIMA (TF) VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.4L ENGINE...
TSBSST041
Oct 2015
Electrical SystemTSB: KDS - AUDIO UPDATE MODULE (AUM) - THE GDS AUDIO UPDATE MODULE (AUM) WAS INTRODUCED IN FOURTH QUARTER OF 2013. THIS SPECIAL SERVICE TOOL (SST) WAS DEVELOPED TO IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF UPDATING 2010MY, AND LATER, KIA AUDIO HEAD UNITS USING A GDS, AND NOW,...
TSBELE091
Aug 2015
Electrical SystemTSB: IDENTIFYING HEAD UNIT SOFTWARE VERSION FOR DIRECT EXCHANGE - THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES THE PROCEDURE ON HOW TO IDENTIFY AND RECORD THE HEAD UNIT SOFTWARE LEVEL ON VARIOUS HEAD UNIT PLATFORMS AND GENERATIONS.
TSB-ELE091R1
Aug 2015
Electrical SystemTSB: IDENTIFYING HEAD UNIT SOFTWARE VERSION FOR DIRECT EXCHANGE - Identifying Head Unit Software Version For Direct Exchange (ELE091) (Rev 1) - This bulletin provides the procedure on how to identify and record the head unit software level on various head unit platforms and...

Showing 60 of 77 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  2. Watch the airbag warning light through a full key cycle.It should light on start and go out within seconds. A light that stays on, or never lights at all, means the system needs attention. Run the VIN for inflator recalls specifically.
  3. Brake hard once from speed on an empty road.A pull to one side, a pulsing pedal, a pedal that sinks at a stop, or an ABS light that stays lit are the brake complaints on this vehicle presenting themselves.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 3 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Kia Forte →