PROBLEM GUIDE
Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.
Last updated February 2026
439
complaints filed for the 2014 model year
2014–2016
Model years affected
Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.
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Start my diagnosis →Other Kia models with the identical part are covered
Check engine light: On
Owners explicitly note other Kia models received a recall for the identical steering coupler part, but the Forte was excluded entirely.
Up to a quarter gallon weekly
Check engine light: On
Owners report burning up to a quarter gallon of oil weekly with no visible leaks.
Typically around 90,000-130,000 miles
Check engine light: On
Engine failure and knocking, often around 90,000-130,000 miles, with the issue persisting despite recall repairs having already been performed.
Preceded by smoke from the engine compartment
Check engine light: On
8 engine fires for a single sampled model year, some occurring while the vehicle was parked, preceded by 'smoke coming from engine compartment.'
Unexpectedly, creating highway safety hazards
Check engine light: On
Limp mode activation unexpectedly restricts speed to 30-45 mph, creating highway safety hazards.
"Pedal fell to the floor" reported multiple times
Check engine light: On
Brake line corrosion causes complete loss of braking ability, with 'pedal fell to the floor' reported multiple times.
No sound comes from the speakers
Check engine light: Off
No sound comes from the speakers. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 25 owner reports on file.
The engine shuts down when the AC is activated, suspected to be caused by compressor failure
Check engine light: Off
The engine shuts down when the AC is activated, suspected to be caused by compressor failure. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 14 owner reports on file.
Owners report a steering coupler recall covering the identical part on other Kia models, but this nameplate excluded entirely from that recall. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.
Owners report a steering coupler recall covering the identical part on other Kia models, but the Forte is not covered by that recall. Excessive oil consumption is also commonly reported, as it is on other Hyundai and Kia models.