GradeKia Forte Reliability Grade
Above-average reliability
Grade a specific Kia Forte
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Kia Forte earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B- for its engine and a B+ for its transmission. It ranks 8th of 14 compact cars we grade. The engine (B-) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 1,876 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Kia Forte reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2022
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Kia Forte last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Kia Forte vs. other compact cars
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | A | A | A |
| Mazda Mazda3 | A | A | A |
| Subaru Impreza | A | A | A |
| Toyota Prius | A | A | A |
| Honda Civic | A- | A | A- |
| Nissan Versa | A- | B- | A- |
| Chevrolet Cruze | B+ | B | A- |
| Nissan Sentra | A | B- | B+ |
| Kia Forte | B- | B+ | B+ |
| Volkswagen Jetta | B | B+ | B+ |
| Volkswagen Golf | B | B | B |
| Hyundai Elantra | C+ | B | B- |
| Ford Fiesta | C+ | F | D |
| Ford Focus | F | F | F |
Own a Kia Forte?
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Rate your ForteKia Forte reliability FAQ
Is the Kia Forte reliable?
Above-average reliability. The Kia Forte earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B- for its engine and a B+ for its transmission. It ranks 8th of 14 compact cars we grade. The engine (B-) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 1,876 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Kia Forte last?
We estimate a well-maintained Kia Forte lasts around 185,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Kia Forte?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Kia Forte model years are 2022.
What Kia Forte years should I avoid?
No Kia Forte model year stands out as a problem year in NHTSA owner complaints.
Is the Kia Forte transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Kia Forte transmission a B+ (above-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Kia Forte engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Kia Forte engine a B- (average reliability).