2021 Kia Forte recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Kia Forte and 69 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (22), unknown or other (18), steering (9). It earned a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 30–35 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
The 2021 ranks #5 of 13 Forte model years for fewest complaints (2012–2024), with fewer complaints than the average year (158). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.2 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 Kia Forte. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
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.
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.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
The seatbelt comes unbuckled without cause often and the lane keeping assistance pulls the car of to the right unprovoked.
It keeps getting broken into by the KIA boys in attempt of theft. It's a group that targets KIAs because they're easy. I now have to make sure my steering wheel is locked up. I was recently hit by another driver, i had to go to the hospital but for some reason the airbag did not deploy. I need some assistance
Driving under normal conditions April 20,2026, on the way to school. Got off the freeway and the vehicle immediately shut-off and the check engine light came on. Vehicle was stuck partially in the roadway and would not move. Vehicle was towed to Kia dealership and they found that there was no oil in the engine and that the oil drain plug was completely missing. This problem…
Safety ratings
2021 Kia Forte 4 DR FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 Kia Forte.
Forte
Auto (AM-S7) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo
Regular
Forte
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Forte FE
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 Kia Forte have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Kia Forte, most recently for steering · column (05/05/2022). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Kia Forte?
Based on 69 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (22), unknown or other (18), steering (9).
Is the 2021 Kia Forte safe?
The 2021 Kia Forte earned a 4-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Kia Forte?
The 2021 ranks #5 of 13 Forte model years for fewest complaints (2012–2024), with fewer complaints than the average year (158). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.2 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Kia Forte get?
EPA ratings for the 2021 Kia Forte range from 30 to 35 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
Own a 2021 Kia Forte in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved November 2, 2026. NHTSA model names used: FORTE, Forte.