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.
2021 Kia Forte Recall
Certified technicians, only the experts.Don't Want To Service? Sell Us Your Car!
Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2021 Kia Forte?
The NHTSA has issued multiple recalls affecting the 2021 Kia Forte covering engine, air bag, brake, headlight, axle shaft, electrical components, seat belt assemblies, and oil pan concerns. Specifically, recall records include engine-related fire risk notices (SC200), oil pump/ oil pan concerns (SC210), air bag/OCS detection issues (SC165, SC207), brake pedal stopper pad deterioration (SC158), headlight aiming (SC171), left front axle heat-treatment inspection (SC195), cooling fan resistor overheating, and a seatbelt retractor screw issue (SC132). For the most current manufacturer details we reference NHTSA records and Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.
How do I check if my 2021 Kia Forte has an open recall?
You can confirm open recalls by checking your VIN at NHTSA.gov or by contacting Nalley Kia's service team for a free VIN lookup. We also offer to check recalls at no cost—call or schedule appointment and our factory-trained technicians will verify any open campaigns.
How much does a 2021 Kia Forte recall repair cost?
Manufacturer recall repairs are performed free of charge to the vehicle owner; the NHTSA-designated remedies for these recalls are covered by Kia. Nalley Kia uses OEM parts and factory-trained technicians so recall repairs remain free and documented; ask about available service financing if you need other unrelated repairs.
Can I get my 2021 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 procedures and warranty compliance; a certified franchise dealer is the recommended, safest choice. Nalley Kia performs free manufacturer recall work with OEM parts, factory diagnostic tools, and Kia-trained technicians to meet NHTSA remediation requirements.
How long does a 2021 Kia Forte recall repair take?
Repair time varies by campaign—most inspections or module replacements can take a few hours, while engine or oil pan replacements may require longer scheduling; we provide an ETA when you schedule service. We prioritize safety fixes and offer courtesy amenities and express bays where possible; ask about current turn times and available service specials service specials.
Does an open recall affect my 2021 Kia Forte's trade-in or resale value?
Yes — unresolved recalls can reduce trade-in and resale value because many buyers and dealers check NHTSA records and vehicle history reports for open campaigns. Getting recalls resolved at Nalley Kia protects value and provides documentation for buyers and trade-in appraisals; start the process at our trade-in page.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2021 Kia Forte recall?
Some safety-related recalls (brakes, airbags, lighting, or engine stalling risks) may affect inspection results or vehicle roadworthiness evaluations in certain states. If you are concerned about inspection compliance, bring your vehicle to Nalley Kia for a free recall check and corrective work so you remain compliant with Georgia inspection rules.
2021 Kia Forte Recall Summary
These entries are summarized from NHTSA records and Kia manufacturer notices; recall repairs are free through the manufacturer and must be performed by an authorized dealer. To protect safety and value, schedule service with Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA, today.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
The 2021 Kia Forte has several NHTSA-documented recalls that present real safety risks if left unaddressed; these include potential engine compartment fires due to oil or fuel leaks, oil pump-related engine damage that can cause stalling, air bag control unit failures that may prevent frontal airbags and pretensioners from deploying, and brake pedal stopper pad deterioration that can leave brake lights illuminated or allow the transmission to be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake. Each of these defects can increase the risk of injury or a crash — for example, engine fires and melted cooling fan resistors can directly lead to fire hazards, while axle or oil pump failures can cause sudden loss of drive power. Nalley Kia's factory-trained technicians prioritize safety first: we use OEM diagnostic tools and follow Kia's prescribed remedies under each NHTSA campaign. Recall repairs are performed free of charge under the manufacturer program, and completing recommended work promptly can also reduce potential insurance complications and protect passengers. If you suspect any symptoms or simply want a VIN check, schedule service with Nalley Kia today — our team in Lithonia offers fast, documented recall remediation to keep you and your vehicle safe.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Choose Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA for manufacturer recall repairs and you’ll get factory-trained technicians, genuine OEM parts, and Kia-approved repair procedures — all required for proper recall remediation. As an authorized Kia franchise dealership serving Lithonia, Decatur, Conyers, Stone Mountain, and the greater Atlanta area, we maintain Kia-specific tools and software updates such as the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) when available. Our certified staff documents every recall repair on manufacturer channels so your vehicle’s repair history is clear to future buyers and inspectors. Because recall repairs are performed at no cost to owners, there is no reason to delay: Nalley Kia handles notifications, parts ordering, and warranty filing on your behalf. We also provide service financing for non-covered work so you can get any additional maintenance done now and pay later if needed. For convenience, access our service specials service specials, or schedule service online to arrange a same-week inspection and repair.
Next Steps to Resolve Recalls
Start with a VIN lookup at NHTSA.gov or contact Nalley Kia for a free recall check — the very first step is to confirm whether your 2021 Kia Forte has open campaigns. When you bring your vehicle to our Lithonia service center, we will inspect the affected systems listed by the NHTSA, provide a clear explanation of the recommended corrective action (for example: oil pan replacement, OCS/ODS unit replacement, cooling fan resistor replacement, or brake pedal stopper pad replacement), and give a realistic repair-time estimate. Many inspections and module replacements complete in a few hours; engine-level repairs may take longer depending on parts availability. All recall work is performed free of charge under Kia’s manufacturer program and we will document the service in your vehicle history. To begin, schedule appointment online or call our service team; ask about current service specials and our service financing options so you can get necessary maintenance done immediately with flexible payment plans.
Protect Your Resale Value
Unresolved recalls can reduce trade-in offers and discourage private buyers because many dealers and consumers check NHTSA records and vehicle history reports before purchase. Getting open recalls fixed at Nalley Kia demonstrates that your 2021 Kia Forte has been maintained by an authorized franchise with documented OEM repairs, which protects resale and trade-in value. Our service advisors will provide official recall repair records after completing each remedy so you can show prospective buyers or appraisal services that manufacturer-directed corrections were completed. We also handle trade-in appraisals for customers across Lithonia, Decatur, and the greater Atlanta area — start a valuation at our trade-in page and then schedule service to clear any open recalls prior to sale. Completing recall repairs not only preserves safety but also maximizes marketability and value when you decide to sell or trade your vehicle.
1 / 4
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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-
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed
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.
Find Out If We Can Help
Free recall check · No appointment needed