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.
2020 Kia Forte Recall
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Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2020 Kia Forte?
The NHTSA has recorded 13 recalls affecting the 2020 Kia Forte covering engine, air bag, brake, seat belt, electrical, headlight, axle shaft and oil pan issues. Key defects include possible engine compartment fires, oil pump contamination causing engine damage or stall, air bag/OCS detection faults, brake pedal stopper pad deterioration, and headlight aiming or axle heat-treatment issues. All manufacturer recall repairs are performed free of charge at a certified dealer like Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA.
How do I check if my 2020 Kia Forte has an open recall?
You can check for open recalls using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or bring your vehicle to Nalley Kia and we will check the VIN for free. If you prefer to act now, schedule appointment and our factory-trained techs will verify recall status and advise next steps. We also offer service financing and can discuss available service specials when you call or visit.
How much does a 2020 Kia Forte recall repair cost?
Manufacturer recall repairs for the 2020 Kia Forte are free of charge to the vehicle owner when performed through an authorized Kia dealer. Nalley Kia uses OEM parts and Kia factory-trained technicians to complete recall repairs at no cost under the recall program. If you need help with related maintenance not covered by the recall, ask about our service specials or service financing options.
Can I get my 2020 Kia Forte recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Recall repairs should be completed at a certified franchise dealer like Nalley Kia to ensure OEM parts, correct software updates, and warranty-compliant procedures. Some remedies require manufacturer-only diagnostic tools or parts and software updates that independent shops may not have; a dealer ensures the repair is logged with Kia and NHTSA. To book service with our factory-trained team, schedule service online and we will handle recall documentation and follow-up.
How long does a 2020 Kia Forte recall repair take?
Repair time varies by recall: simple parts replacements may take less than a day; engine inspections or replacements may require longer scheduling and parts availability. Nalley Kia strives for fast, safe turnaround and will provide an estimated time when you schedule appointment.
Does an open recall affect my 2020 Kia Forte's trade-in or resale value?
An unresolved recall can reduce buyer confidence and negatively impact trade-in or resale value because some buyers and dealers check NHTSA recall status before purchase. Having recalls remedied at Nalley Kia documents proper factory repairs and helps preserve the vehicle's value—ask about our trade appraisal when you visit our appraisal page.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2020 Kia Forte recall?
Some recalls that affect safety-critical systems (brakes, airbags, lights, engine stall risk) can lead to failed inspections if the defect impacts required functions. If you are unsure, bring your vehicle to Nalley Kia for a free VIN recall check and professional guidance—we can also help you schedule service and discuss financing for any non-recall repairs.
2020 Kia Forte Recall Summary
These recalls are drawn from NHTSA records. If your 2020 Kia Forte is listed above, contact Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA to schedule appointment — recall repairs are free and must be performed by a certified dealer to ensure proper remedy and documentation.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
The safety of drivers and passengers is the priority—recalls exist because a component can put people at risk. For the 2020 Kia Forte, the NHTSA data shows issues that include potential engine compartment fire risk, oil pump contamination that can lead to engine failure and stall, air bag control and occupant detection faults that may prevent proper deployment, and brake pedal stopper pad deterioration that can cause brake lights to remain on or allow unintended gear movement. Ignoring these recalls raises the chance of injury, crash, or vehicle fire, and can complicate insurance claims after an incident. Nalley Kia's factory-trained technicians will inspect the affected systems using OEM diagnostic tools and apply the manufacturer’s corrective actions, all at no charge under the recall program. Scheduling recall work promptly reduces risk to you and your family and preserves the vehicle’s safety compliance status. To protect yourself and others, please schedule service at Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA as soon as possible and ask about our service financing if you have additional maintenance needs.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Choose a certified franchise dealer for recall repairs — it matters. Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA is a factory-authorized Kia dealer staffed with factory-trained technicians who use genuine OEM parts and Kia-approved diagnostic tools. Our technicians are trained on Kia service procedures and recall remedies so your 2020 Kia Forte receives the correct inspection, software update, or part replacement and the repair is documented with Kia and the NHTSA. We serve Lithonia and the surrounding communities including Decatur, Conyers, Stone Mountain and greater Atlanta, offering convenience and peace of mind when you search for “kia recall service near me.” All manufacturer recall repairs are free of charge, and Nalley Kia will manage parts ordering, follow-up notices, and documentation. For fast service, schedule appointment online, and view our current service specials if you need additional maintenance while your recall is completed.
Check Your VIN Today
Start by checking your VIN — it’s the quickest way to confirm if your 2020 Kia Forte has open recalls. You can enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov or bring your vehicle to Nalley Kia and our service team will check the NHTSA and manufacturer databases for free. When you arrive, expect a thorough VIN lookup, a short on-site inspection if needed, and clear next steps from our service advisors; many recall fixes are performed the same day, while more extensive engine or replacement work may require scheduling. Nalley Kia minimizes downtime with transparent estimates and OEM parts; we will also let you know if any software updates, parts replacements, or engine inspections are required. If you need help confirming coverage or want the convenience of an appointment, schedule service now and review our service specials to see if other savings apply. We also offer service financing so you can get necessary work done now and pay later.
Protect Your Resale Value
Unresolved recalls can deter buyers and lower trade-in offers — addressing them preserves value. A documented recall repair at an authorized Kia dealer shows prospective buyers and trade appraisers that the 2020 Kia Forte received OEM repairs and manufacturer-approved fixes, which helps protect resale and trade-in value. Some private buyers and dealers run VIN checks and NHTSA lookups before purchase; unresolved safety recalls may reduce offers or complicate financing and title transfer. Nalley Kia will inspect, repair, and log recall work at no cost under Kia’s recall program and provide documentation you can use at resale. If you’re considering selling or trading, we make the process simple: bring the vehicle in or start a trade appraisal online after your recall repair is completed. Addressing recalls promptly maintains safety, buyer confidence, and market value for your vehicle.
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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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