Defect
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.
2013 Kia Forte Recall
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Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2013 Kia Forte?
The NHTSA has issued 13 recalls affecting the 2013 Kia Forte, covering engine, air bag, brake, seat belt, electrical system, and other components. These recalls include engine compartment fire risk, air bag control unit faults, brake pedal stopper pad deterioration, and seat belt retractor issues, among others. Nalley Kia can check your vehicle’s VIN and confirm which of these recalls apply to your car and perform repairs at no charge.
How do I check if my 2013 Kia Forte has an open recall?
You can check by entering your VIN at NHTSA.gov or bring your vehicle to Nalley Kia and we will check for free. NHTSA’s database will show open recalls and campaign details; our service advisors will also confirm and explain required repairs. If you prefer, schedule service and we’ll verify recall status, recommend actions, and handle repairs using OEM parts.
How much does a 2013 Kia Forte recall repair cost?
Manufacturer recall repairs are free of charge and covered by Kia when the defect is included in an active recall. At Nalley Kia we perform recall repairs at no cost to you with factory-trained technicians and OEM parts. If additional non-recall work is required, ask about our current service specials and service financing options to help with payments.
Can I get my 2013 Kia Forte recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Recall repairs must be completed by an authorized dealer to ensure OEM parts, correct service procedures, and free manufacturer coverage. Independent shops cannot always access manufacturer software updates (for example, the Knock Sensor Detection System update) or warranty parts used for recall campaigns. For safe, guaranteed repairs, bring your vehicle to Nalley Kia — your local certified Kia dealer — and schedule service today.
How long does a 2013 Kia Forte recall repair take?
Repair times vary by recall but many inspections and fixes take a few hours; some engine replacements or parts orders can take longer. For recalls like engine compartment inspections or brake pedal pad replacement we often complete work the same day; more extensive engine work may require parts and additional time. To minimize downtime, schedule service with Nalley Kia and we’ll provide an estimated turnaround and loaner or shuttle options when available.
Does an open recall affect my 2013 Kia Forte's trade-in or resale value?
Yes — unresolved recalls can reduce resale and trade-in value because buyers and dealers often verify recall status before purchase. Fixing recalls at a certified dealer protects your vehicle’s value and provides documentation that the manufacturer repair was completed. When ready to sell or trade, visit our appraisal page to get an updated valuation after recalls are resolved: sell your car online.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2013 Kia Forte recall?
Some recalls affect safety equipment that can impact inspection outcomes, so an unresolved recall could cause inspection failure depending on state rules. For example, recalls related to air bag control units or brake lights can directly affect safety inspection results if the systems are malfunctioning. Contact Nalley Kia to verify recalls and schedule service — our recall repairs are free and we offer service financing if needed.
2013 Kia Forte Recall Summary
These recall entries are sourced from NHTSA records. To confirm if your 2013 Kia Forte is affected and to schedule service at Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA, contact our certified service department today; recall repairs are free and performed with OEM parts by factory-trained technicians.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Protect Your Resale Value
The 2013 Kia Forte’s resale and trade-in value can be negatively affected by unresolved recalls, and addressing recall work promptly is one of the highest-return investments you can make in the car’s long-term worth. Buyers, auction houses, and many dealers check NHTSA recall status before completing a purchase; open recalls for components such as engine fire risk, seat belt retractor defects, or brake light switch malfunctions can reduce buyer confidence and lower offers. At Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA, we document every recall repair with OEM parts and factory procedures so you can demonstrate the work was completed by a certified franchise dealer. That documentation helps preserve market value, eases financing approvals for future buyers, and avoids surprises during trade-in appraisal. When you choose Nalley Kia to schedule service, you’re protecting your asset and making it more salable across the greater Atlanta market.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Nalley Kia is a factory-certified Kia dealership serving Lithonia and the surrounding communities with manufacturer-authorized recall repairs performed by Kia-trained technicians. Our service department uses OEM diagnostic tools and follows Kia service procedures so recall remedies — whether engine inspections, air bag control unit checks, brake stopper pad replacement, or seat belt assembly replacement — are completed correctly and at no cost under the recall program. We prioritize customer safety and transparency; our advisors will explain NHTSA-listed defects, expected repair steps, and timelines. If you need service financing or want to review current offers, we provide options and post-repair documentation. Trust Nalley Kia for accurate recall work and peace of mind when searching for “Kia recall service near me.”
Check Your VIN Today
Checking your VIN is the fastest way to confirm whether your 2013 Kia Forte has an open recall, and Nalley Kia will perform that check for free when you visit or schedule service. You can also search the NHTSA database directly, but our service team will immediately interpret NHTSA findings and advise on corrective actions — for example, engine compartment inspections related to fire risk or oil pump and oil pan replacement campaigns. Typical recall inspections take only a short diagnostic appointment, and many fixes are same-day; when parts are required, we order OEM components and keep you informed. Use our online scheduler, ask about service specials, and rely on Nalley Kia for efficient, documented recall resolution.
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
Addressing recalls for the 2013 Kia Forte is essential because many of the issued campaigns address serious safety risks, including the potential for an engine compartment fire, air bag non-deployment due to ACU faults, and brake system issues that can affect stop-light signaling and shifting out of Park. Ignoring these recalls increases the risk of injury, crash, or vehicle damage and can complicate insurance claims or inspections. Nalley Kia places safety first: our factory-trained technicians perform recall repairs with OEM parts and manufacturer procedures at no charge to you. If you suspect any symptoms — unusual smells, warning lights, or brake or restraint issues — schedule appointment immediately. We also offer service financing and can get you back on the road safely with minimal disruption.
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Recall Summary
13 recalls found · All repairs FREE
Engine
FREE4 OPEN RECALLS
Consequence
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action
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 is currently developing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update, which when available, will be performed by dealers free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
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Engine4
FREE4 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
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.
Consequence
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action
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 is currently developing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update, which when available, will be performed by dealers free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
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Air Bag2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia 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. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners from deploying.
Consequence
If the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
Corrective Action
The remedy for this recall is still under development. The recall is planned to begin on July 27, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC165.
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Brake2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Forte and Forte Koup vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released. This will allow the brake lights to remain illuminated continuously. It can also allow the shift lever to be moved without depressing the brake pedal, or activate the engine management brake pedal override feature.
Consequence
If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 30, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC158.
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Seat Belt1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2013 Forte vehicles manufactured September 10, 2012, to October 31, 2012. The screws that hold the front seatbelt retractor retaining plates may not have been properly tightened, and as a result, the seatbelt retractor retaining plates may break in a crash.
Consequence
If a retaining plate breaks during a crash, pieces of the plate could strike the occupants, increasing risk of injury.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace both front seatbelt assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. The recall began July 1, 2016. Kia's number for this recall is SC132.
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Electrical System1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2014 Kia Forte vehicles manufactured December 5, 2012, to April 17, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the cooling fan resistor may overheat and melt.
Consequence
If the cooling fan resistor overheats and melts, there is an increased risk of a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and for vehicles produced from December 5, 2012 to January 27, 2014, dealers will replace the cooling fan resistor and multi-fuse unit. For vehicles produced from January 28, 2014 to April 17, 2014, dealers will replace the multi-
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Headlight1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Kia Forte vehicles equipped with LED headlights. The headlights may not have been manufactured with the correct low beam aiming. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, Lamps
Consequence
If the headlights are not properly aimed, the driver may have reduced visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlight aiming and replace the headlights, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 30, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC171.
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Axle Shaft1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Forte vehicles. The left front axle driveshaft may not have been heat-treated, which can cause it to break.
Consequence
A broken driveshaft can result in a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left front axle driveshaft for a heat treatment verification code, and replace it if the code is missing, free of charge. The recall began September 2, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC195.
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Oil Pan1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Forte vehicles equipped with a 2.0L Nu MPI engine. Foreign particles may stick inside the oil pump, which may cause an oil pump failure and engine damage.
Consequence
A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the oil pan, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC210.
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