Kia Forte water leak problems

Filed Oct 3, 2026 · Lights · KS

I own a 2017 Kia Forte that has a recurring problem with water intrusion in the rear tail light assemblies. This issue was previously repaired around 2018 under Kia’s service action related to moisture and water entering the rear combination lamps, but the problem has returned. Moisture and water are again getting inside the tail light housing, which can lead to corrosion, bulb or LED failure, and electrical problems. I am concerned that this could cause the brake light or turn signal to fail unexpectedly. If one of these lights goes out without warning, other drivers may not be able to tell when I am stopping or turning, which could increase the risk of a rear-end or side-impact crash. Since this issue was repaired before and has now returned, I am concerned that the original repair did not permanently correct the defect and that the problem may be related to an ongoing sealing or manufacturing issue.

Filed Oct 9, 2024 · Lights · AR

Both of my tail lights have the water leaking problem that other 2017 Fortes were recalled for. My VIN was not on the list, but both of them have to be fixed at my expense and are burning out my tail light and turn signal bulbs prematurely because of the water condensed in them.

Filed Sep 25, 2023 · Electrical · 126,889 miles · CA

Electrical problems from the start when purchaed November 2016. Ghost electrical problems, affecting radio, gas guage, lights, and traction, Also tail lights leaked water in.

Filed Dec 25, 2022 · Electrical, Lights · GA

The trunk seal is not functioning properly. Water gets into lighting and causes mold in truck.

Filed Dec 13, 2021 · Lights · TX

Brake light failure on both tail lights. The problem started by finding mold in the trunk. This was caused by water pooling in the bottom space where the spare tire would go if it came with one. Water leaks were observed from both tail lights into the trunk. The culprit seems to be bad gaskets for the tail lights. The gaskets have cracks which let rain water through. The poor design of this part has caused both brake lights to stop working. I fear water damage with the wiring / electrical system. The 3rd, center brake light still works. Will KIA pay to fix this important safety feature?

Filed Aug 18, 2021 · Airbags, Body · TN

My airbag light is on took it to dealership when the airbag recall came out to have it check and got it back with airbag light on. And when it rains water gets in the trunk and also my passenger and driver side floor board gets soaked it has begun to show signs of mold this really concerns me due to the fact i have health issues and having to drive a car with mold growing in it is a huge issue

Filed Aug 1, 2021 · Brakes · KY · crash · 3 injuries

Water leaks from under the dash covering the floor. And making the brand and acceleration peddles wet and slick. Slowing to stop at my hom and my foot slide from the brake peddle and was unable to safely slow down before impacting my husband’s truck.

Filed May 11, 2021 · Driver assistance, Electrical · 7,000 miles · OH

Water leaking into trunk causing malfunction to security alarm system auto trunk release and trunk lid open symbol trunk malfunction warnig symbols and alarm stayed on could not here any saftey alarms water in trunk damaged sensor could not lock or unlock trunk remotly could not here alarm on blind spot warning could not read any readings like speed, tire pressurer could not here seat belt lock chime

Filed Nov 27, 2015 · IN

Well leaking water in trunk had to let kia store in clarksville, indiana take it to fix didn't fix still paying on a lease and they still will not fix it screwing me over do not ever buy a car from kia store in clarksville, indiana they are crooks mold growing in backseat [xxx]. Vin unavailable information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).'

Filed Sep 15, 2014 · Engine · 1,500 miles · VA

I discovered along with other kia forte/k3 owners that when it rains, whether it is moderate or heavy, massive water leaks inside engine compartment. This also happens when the car is parked and not move an inch and still I found water all over the engine(after rainy day), battery terminal, fuse case, air filter case, and majority of left side of the engine room as well. Dealer told not to worry, but I've had many cars in the past that never experienced this flaw. I'm afraid this can lead to massive engine/rust possibly fire from massive water droplets and high temperature of engine and all kinds of connectors that is exposed as a result of this. I plead the federal safety agency to investigate this critical and dangerous flaw posed by kia and their irresponsible solution of ignoring passenger safety. As of now, I stopped driving in the rain, and this is extremely inconvenient as a working commuter. I would first test the part where window wipers meet and pour some water there, and then I would use pressure wash to just spray the hood and you'll find what I mean. Moderate rain should not create this much water leaks all over the engine compartment. Thank you. Best to contact me via email if needed.