2015 Kia Forte: engine failure

Filed Jul 6, 2026 · Engine · IN

respectfully submit this correspondence to request formal assistance regarding my 2015 Kia Forte EX, a vehicle covered under the class settlement. The vehicle is exhibiting severe symptoms consistent with KSDS‑related engine failure, yet the required diagnostic protocol has not been completed by the servicing dealership. The KSDS software update was performed in May 2022, and the vehicle currently has only 92,000 miles on the odometer, placing it well within the settlement’s mileage parameters. Despite this, the dealership has failed to follow KSDS procedures and has not produced any written documentation of its findings. All communication with the dealership has occurred exclusively by telephone. Despite repeated attempts to obtain information, I have not received a diagnostic sheet, video recording, code report, KSDS documentation, or any written summary of the vehicle’s condition. All statements provided to me have been verbal and inconsistent. My **primary symptoms** include: - Persistent and worsening **engine ticking** - **Burning excessive amounts of oil** - Activation of **limp mode** - A **flashing check engine light** These symptoms align with known indicators of KSDS‑related engine failure and warrant immediate and proper diagnostic evaluation under the settlement terms. The dealership has verbally stated that the issue may be related to **spark plugs and ignition coils**. However, plugs and coils are a **well‑documented secondary symptom** of rod bearing failure, caused by oil contamination and misfires resulting from internal engine damage. This further supports the likelihood of KSDS‑related engine failure. Kia corporate has not referenced documentation of any kind. They have not requested it, indicated they are awaiting it, or provided guidance regarding its submission. Instead, corporate has repeatedly stated that they “must defer to the dealership,” despite the dealership’s failure to perform or submit the required KSDS diagnostic materials.

Filed Nov 7, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · OH

I own a 2015 Kia Forte (VIN: [XXX] ) that experienced complete engine failure. The vehicle had been running normally until it began stalling and sputtering while driving. Shortly after, the engine would only run for 1–2 seconds before shutting off entirely. This exact issue mirrors those documented in previous recalls and class-action lawsuits involving Kia's 2011–2015 models with 2.0L and 2.4L engines. However, despite having the same failure and engine type, my VIN was excluded from the existing recall/warranty extension campaigns. Kia confirmed this is a known issue, but will not cover repairs. This failure occurred at approx. 180,000 miles. Engine failure without warning is a serious safety risk and financial burden. I am filing this complaint so the federal safety agency can review this issue and evaluate whether additional VINs — like mine — should be included in a broader investigation or recall. A case has been opened with Kia (Case #XXX), and full diagnostic documentation from a certified mechanic is available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Aug 7, 2025 · Engine · IA

Took care to kis for a recall picked it up and got down the street and it died on me brought it back to Kia and was told it was okay just the oil filter took Kia home and changed oil and filter and car kept going dead would restart but the die again after driving for a little bit. The car kept going dead in middle of road interstate turning into lane across from on going traffic very unsafe. Took care back to Kia the scanned it and checked recall they did and said it was ok took car home again and same problem it now has a loud knock or chattering sound while driving.and it's still going dead. Took care back to Kia again and now they say there is internal engine failure and that I don't have the extended warranty because my mileage is just over the limit for regular warranty. And they will not offer goodwill either because the Internal engine failure. My car drove just fine no problems until I took it to them for the recall and now they say they can't help with nothing. With being disabled and a student I worked really hard to get this car and I need it to get to appointments school and therapy. This has taken away my transportation my happiness and my hard work And effort. It takes a lot to accomplish things being disabled and this makes it even harder. I want to give up most days being able to get to school gave me a purpose and I felt like I belonged. I feel it is only far to have another opinion and to have goodwill being the issue occured after the recall took place. Please help me get my car back and running I've given life and my education my all and my best with what circumstances I have to go through to make it through a day and not having the one things that I earned and worked so hard for taken away from me is really defeating and hard.

Filed Aug 7, 2025 · Engine · CO

[XXX] [XXX] [XXX] 08/07/2025 [XXX] Kia America, Inc. Consumer Affairs P.O. Box 52410 Irvine, CA 92619-2410 Subject: Request for Reconsideration of Engine Replacement – 2015 Kia Forte Dear Kia Customer Care Team, I am writing to formally request a reconsideration regarding the recent denial of assistance for my 2015 Kia Forte ([XXX]), which has experienced a major engine failure at approximately 157,000 miles I was informed by your customer service department that my vehicle is not eligible for the engine replacement under the recall or extended warranty programs due to timing. However, I am aware that Kia has had significant and well-documented issues with the 2.0L GDI engines used in my vehicle model year. The problem in my car appears to be consistent with the same engine defects that have affected countless others — in my case, a serious piston-related failure that now requires a full engine replacement. As a loyal Kia owner who has taken good care of my vehicle, I am incredibly disappointed that such a severe defect would surface and that my only option, per current communication, is to replace the engine at my own expense — something that is financially unfeasible for me. My car has otherwise been well maintained and was expected to last many more miles. I respectfully ask that Kia extend goodwill assistance in this matter. Whether through an extended warranty exception, cost-sharing on the repair, or any alternative solution, I would greatly appreciate any support Kia can offer in helping resolve this issue. I believe in your brand and want to continue to support it, but I also believe this issue is not just due to normal wear and tear. Please reconsider this decision and help me get back on the road safely. I am open to speaking with a representative if more information is needed and look forward to your response. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jul 24, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · 90,000 miles · NC

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Forte. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start intermittently. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic and was repaired; however, the failure recurred, and the vehicle was taken back to the certified mechanic, and an unknown repair was completed. The contact was unsure of the repair that was completed. After having the vehicle repaired a second time, while attempting to accelerate, the instrument panel was flashing the check engine and the oil light warning lights. The vehicle decelerated, and there was black smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power shortly afterwards. The failure had occurred three times. The vehicle was towed to a certified mechanic twice. The mechanic repaired the knock sensor and drained and replaced the engine oil and cleared the codes. The failure reoccurred, and the vehicle was taken to the mechanic, and was then towed to the dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the knock sensor had failed. The knock sensor was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The engine was not replaced. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and opened a case. The failure mileage was 90,000.

Filed Jun 25, 2025 · Engine · NC

I purchased my 2015 Kia Forte5 in May 2024 with just over 50,000 miles. In 2025, I began smelling burning through the air vents while accelerating. I took it to a Kia dealership, paid a $173 diagnostic fee, and was told they completed the KSDS (Knock Sensor Detection System) recall update, but I did not need an engine replacement because “everything looked fine.” They gave me no clear explanation for the burning smell. When I called back and told them the smell hadn’t stopped, they said, “That’s just your oil burning — that’s normal!” and then hung up on me. I contacted 1-800-KIA, and my case was assigned to a woman named Tina. I explained that the dealership didn’t perform a thorough inspection and dismissed a very real concern. Tina sided with the dealership immediately and showed zero care for the danger I described. What Kia called “fine” has now made my car unsafe to drive. The smell has persisted, worsening, and is clearly a fire hazard. This model is under Recall SC200 for engine compartment fire risk, and yet they marked the recall “complete” — just by running a software update. No mechanical inspection or repair was done. After researching the federal safety agency complaints, I found multiple reports from other Forte5 owners who described this exact burning smell shortly before experiencing complete engine failure or fires. After the KSDS update, Kia advertised a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty for engines. But my vehicle doesn’t hit 10 years until January 2026, and it feels like they’re intentionally dragging this out to avoid honoring the warranty. I reported the issue months in advance, and I believe they’re delaying on purpose so I’ll age out of eligibility while the danger keeps growing. Kia is putting people in danger by closing out recalls without resolving the actual mechanical issues. This really needs urgent investigation and fast. I do not feel safe in this vehicle at all and and it’s stressing me out so much.

Filed Mar 3, 2025 · Engine · 125,330 miles · FL

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Forte. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the vehicle made an abnormally loud rattling sound. The check engine warning light and other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that there was a strong fuel odor coming from the vehicle while driving. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to exceed an undisclosed speed and later became undrivable. Additionally, the contact stated that the low oil pressure warning light was illuminated while there was sufficient oil in the engine. The contact received notification of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 20V750000 (Engine), which the contact related to the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update was performed; however, the failure persisted. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer advised the contact to bring the vehicle back after the manufacturer had approved the request for the engine replacement. The vehicle was driven to the residence; however, the failure worsened while driving. The vehicle was not repaired; however, the recall was marked completed. The contact stated the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,330.

Filed Feb 21, 2025 · Engine · WI

At 85,400 miles just outside of warranty the engine began knocking and the Kia Dealer is saying that the motor is in bearing failure and the engine needs to be replaced. Kia is doing nothing.

Filed Dec 30, 2024 · Acceleration, Driver assistance · NJ · 1 injury

My car stopped while I was driving and I had a catastrophic engine failure. I had to use my engine warranty and also out of pocket pay. I want to issue a warning to the dealer who sold me this vehicle. And I want a reimbursement because I recently purchased the vehicle/

Filed Nov 22, 2024 · Engine · MO

At 60,000 miles the engine began knocking and recently the engine blew through the bottom and cracked.

Filed Oct 25, 2024 · Engine · GA

The engine lost pressure while being driven on the interstate. My daughter was able to pull over and then the car began to smoke. She and a passenger immediately exited the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the nearest shop and was diagnosed with engine failure. My daughter indicated that no check engine light illuminated nor did the temperature gauge note that the vehicle was overheating, but it just began to lose pressure even when she tried to accelerate. I was researching cost to have the engine replaced and came across other Forte owner's testimony that they have had engine problems as well, but the Forte was not listed under the Kia recall for engine issues. But perhaps, it should be.

Filed Jun 29, 2024 · Engine · VA

I have already filled out one of these forms a couple of years ago. It is absolutely ridiculous that every 2011-2015 Kia Forte engine has been recalled, but mine has not. My engine completely blew up a few years ago. It has the exact same problem all these other engines have. I called Kia and asked them to help me replace it bc the issue is exactly the same and they refused. A con-rod warped and then broke and it shot through the bottom of my engine. The rod could have shot back into the inside of the car. God forbid my daughter would be in my car and that happens. I had to replace the engine and the turbo which isn’t cheap at all. Then because of the strain of all of that, it made my transmission go out which has now been replaced. All of these other engines have the exact same problem. It’s the same problem as the 2.0L, but I guess because mine is a 1.6L and it’s a manual transmission, mine hasn’t been recalled yet? The only reason I’m making another report is because my check engine light is on, AGAIN, and the new engine in my car is starting to experience the exact same issues as my last one. Literally every other type of Kia Forte engine has been recalled except for my. I would like a recalled to be issued and a refund of the money I have sunk into this car. I can’t sell it because I owe too much on it, so the only option is to fix it. At this point I have put more than double the amount of money into this car than it’s even worth. Something needs to be done here. I’m really not trying to wait around until it blows up again and I have to replace another engine. I know I’m just one person, but there has to be other complaints like this.