2021 Kia Forte recalls
NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2021 Kia Forte, most recently on May 5, 2022. Each entry below explains the defect, what can happen, and the free repair.
Is your car already fixed? Recalls are listed by model. Whether your own vehicle has been repaired depends on its VIN: check it on NHTSA's recall lookup or ask any dealer for that brand. Recall repairs are free.
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Steering › Column
Problem: 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.
Risk: Loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
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Air bags › Air bag/restraint control module
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Telluride, K5, and Forte vehicles. The Occupant Classification and Detection System (OCS/ODS) unit may not detect the presence of a child restraint system in the front passenger seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: In the event of a crash, deployment of the front passenger air bag, with a child in that seat, can increase the risk of injury to the child.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCS/ODS unit, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC207.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Owner complaints
Owners have filed 69 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Kia Forte, including 11 involving a crash and 0 involving a fire, with 7 injuries reported. Complaints are unverified reports, not recalls, but clusters can lead NHTSA to open an investigation.
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| Engine | 22 |
| Unknown or other | 18 |
| Steering | 9 |
| Electrical system | 8 |
| Air bags | 7 |
| Power train | 7 |
Other Forte years
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my 2021 Kia Forte has an open recall?
Enter your 17-character VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup or call a dealer. Manufacturers also mail owners when a recall is announced, so keep your registration address up to date.
Do I have to pay for recall repairs?
No. Safety recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer for that brand, even if you bought the vehicle used or the warranty has expired.
Where does this information come from?
From NHTSA, the U.S. agency that oversees vehicle safety recalls. This page is refreshed from its database daily.