2019 model year · 1,179+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,179+ owner reports, the 2019 Kia Forte has 3 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is CVT Shudder and Hesitation Under Acceleration with 523 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2019-2024 Kia Forte, the IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission, Kia's name for their CVT) in the 2019-2024 Forte develops a shuddering sensation during light-to-moderate acceleration, particularly from stops and at speeds between 20-45 mph. The issue is caused by the CVT chain and pulley interface wearing irregularly. Kia has released multiple software updates to improve shift mapping and reduce the shudder sensation.
Have dealer perform TCU software update (latest calibration). If shudder persists after software update, CVT fluid change with genuine Kia CVTF may help. In severe cases, CVT valve body or complete CVT replacement under powertrain warranty (10 years/100,000 miles). Kia part #45280-2F100 for CVT fluid.
Parts and tips from 523+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2019-2024 Kia Forte, the 3rd generation Forte (2019-2024) develops a creaking, popping, or groaning noise from the front suspension when turning the steering wheel, particularly at low speeds and over bumps. The front strut bearing and upper spring pad deteriorate prematurely. Kia issued a TSB to replace both components with updated parts. The issue is especially prevalent in colder climates.
Have dealer check for Kia TSB addressing front strut bearing and upper spring pad replacement on 2019-2024 Forte. Replacement of both strut mount bearings and upper spring pads ($50-80 per side in parts). Labor is approximately 1.5-2 hours per side. Some owners combine with strut replacement for a more complete refresh.
Parts and tips from 367+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2019-2023 Kia Forte, the 2019-2023 Forte commonly develops condensation (fogging) inside the headlight and taillight assemblies. Water enters through degraded seals or vent tubes that become clogged. In severe cases, standing water can short out LED driver boards or corrode wiring connectors. Kia has replaced headlight assemblies under warranty for many owners, though the issue can return if the seal design is not updated.
If under warranty, have dealer replace headlight assembly with updated seal design. Aftermarket fix: remove headlight assembly, dry thoroughly, reseal with Permatex Ultra Grey RTV silicone (#82195), and ensure vent tubes are clear. For LED taillights with condensation, replacement is usually needed ($200-400 per side).
Parts and tips from 289+ owners who fixed this issue
STEERING:LINKAGES:KNUCKLE:SPINDLE:ARM
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Forte vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the front left steering knuckle may crack, which can result in a loss of steering control.
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Forte vehicles. The right front lower control arm may have been improperly welded, which can cause it to fail.
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Forte vehicles. The right front lower control arm may have been improperly welded, which can cause it to fail.
STEERING:COLUMN
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.
AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
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."
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,179+ owner reports, the 2019-2019 Kia Forte has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Shudder and Hesitation Under Acceleration, Front Strut Bearing and Upper Spring Pad Noise/Failure, Headlight and Taillight Moisture Condensation. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
The 2019-2019 Kia Forte has 3 known issues documented across 1,179+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Kia Forte issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission, Kia's name for their CVT) in the 2019-2024 Forte develops a shuddering sensation during light-to-moderate acceleration, particularly from stops and at speeds between 20-45 mph. The issue is caused by the CVT chain and pulley interface w… Repairs typically run $0-$4,500. Severity: medium.
The 3rd generation Forte (2019-2024) develops a creaking, popping, or groaning noise from the front suspension when turning the steering wheel, particularly at low speeds and over bumps. The front strut bearing and upper spring pad deteriorate prematurely. Kia issued a TSB to rep… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: low.
The 2019-2023 Forte commonly develops condensation (fogging) inside the headlight and taillight assemblies. Water enters through degraded seals or vent tubes that become clogged. In severe cases, standing water can short out LED driver boards or corrode wiring connectors. Kia has… Repairs typically run $50-$800. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
