2015 Kia Forte · symptom sheet
Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing
- 73owner reports
- 90,000median miles
- $2,000median quote
- 2involved a crash
Newest report Jul 6, 2026 · checked Sep 9, 2026
160 of the 257 complaints on this car are about the engine. 73 of those describe engine failure, which makes it the most reported problem on the 2015 Forte.
Tick what matches of 73 reports
What got replaced
Owners who name the part that was replaced mention the engine (71 reports) and the turbo (3 reports).
Recalls and investigations
One recall on the engine covers the 2015 model year. A recall on the same system isn't always the same failure, so read the defect text.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
Risk and remedy
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia dealers will update the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software, free of charge. The recall began January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
NHTSA investigations into the engine on the Forte
Loss of motive power. Closed dec 12, 2023.
NHTSA summary
Engine fires. Closed feb 5, 2024, led to recall 23V-877.
NHTSA summary
What owners paid
12 of the 73 reports quote a price. Each dot is one quote. The middle half runs $300 to $7,702.
When it happens
The middle half of failures fell between 63,000 and 110,000 miles, from the 47 reports that gave a mileage.
What owners wrote
“At 85,400 miles just outside of warranty the engine began knocking and the Kia Dealer is saying that the motor is in bearing failure and the engine needs to be replaced. Kia is doing nothing.”
Filed Feb 21, 2025 · 85,400 miles
“At 60,000 miles the engine began knocking and recently the engine blew through the bottom and cracked.”
Filed Nov 22, 2024 · 60,000 miles
“Full engine failure at around 110,000 miles. Metal shavings in oil. Car stalls suddenly when driving. Unsafe to drive.”
Filed Apr 19, 2024 · 110,000 miles
“Engine has blown a rod. Inspected and confirmed by certified auto mechanic.(Lucky's Amoco Service) No warnings or lights were present at time of vehicle breakdown.”
Filed Nov 26, 2021
Should you keep driving it?
This page can't tell you that. 2 of 73 reports involved a crash and 1 people were hurt. Owners who file are the ones who had a bad experience, and nobody checks their reports. If the problem affects steering, braking, power or a fire risk, treat it as a safety fault and have it inspected before a long or high-speed drive.
File your own report with NHTSA. Complaint counts are how a problem gets an investigation.
Other problems on this car
- Engine stalls or loses power while driving 52 reports
- Check engine light or misfire 34 reports