Short answer: The biggest problems with the 2023 Kia Forte are electrical system problems, structure issues, and suspension problems.
Electrical system problems are the most common while structure issues and suspension problems aren’t as common.
Some of these problems have even resulted in recalls: Kia has issued three, two for front lower control arm failure and one for a loss of steering control.
Consumers looking to purchase a new vehicle can find themselves overwhelmed by the many platforms and reviews out there about any given vehicle.
In this article, we summarize the most reported problems with the 2023 Kia Forte so that you can be a more informed buyer or current owner.
Having Vehicle Problems?
Submit the form below to see if your vehicle qualifies for a lemon law claim.
Common 2023 Kia Forte Problems
2023 Kia Forte Electrical System Problems
For the 2023 Kia Forte, consumers mentioned general electrical issues like lights not going on or warnings being on without an identifiable reason.
Warning Lights On
- Severity: Slight; these warning lights may distract or confuse the driver, but they are not dangerous on their own.
- Manufacturer’s Response: Kia has not issued a recall or TSB for this issue. However, Kia has issued general diagnostic TSBs for MIL illumination and instrument cluster software updates depending on DTC presence.
- Fix: Dealers will scan for diagnostic trouble codes and update control module software if applicable; faulty sensors or modules may be replaced if needed.
2023 Kia Forte Structure Issues
For the 2023 Forte, consumers mentioned their door unlatching unexpectedly.
Door Unlatching Unexpectedly
- Severity: Moderate to severe; a door opening while driving can create a safety hazard for occupants and other motorists.
- Manufacturer’s Response: Kia has not issued any TSBs or recalls for this issue.
- Fix: Dealers should inspect the latch mechanism, striker alignment, and electronic locking system; latch components may need adjustment or replacement.
2023 Kia Forte Suspension Problems
2023 Kia Forte drivers primarily mentioned the issue addressed by Kia’s front lower control arms, which were manufactured without proper welding.
Kia has issued two recalls related to the structure of the vehicle, both for faulty front lower control arms. The NHTSA Recall ID # for these recalls are 24V-244 and 23V-649.
Weakened Front Lower Control Arms
- Severity: Moderate to severe; cracked or weakened control arms can affect steering stability and increase crash risk.
- Manufacturer’s Response: Kia issued Recall 23V-649 and Recall 24V-244 due to improperly manufactured front lower control arms that may crack or fail.
- Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the affected front lower control arms free of charge.
What 2023 Forte Owners Say
“As I was driving at about 20 mph coming to a stop my passenger front door unlatched and caused the door to open and the door sensors to go off. This door was in fact locked and closed. Now I’m very scared to drive my car because if I was going faster the door could swing open and would be very dangerous to and to others.”
“Clunking when going over bumps especially when turning into a driveway. Started at about 20,000 miles along with excessive clicking when turning the steering wheel.”
“The vehicle has 20k miles and just shut down while going 40 miles per hour. It just turned off. There were no codes or warning lights. The dealership said they had could not find anything wrong and though they suspected what was wrong they could not prove it and so could not get reimbursed for the repair and wouldn’t do it. Why does a new car shut off while going to miles per hour, that is scary to drive. If it happens at the wrong place or time I and others could be in danger.”
Legal Solutions for Defective Car Owners
Lemon laws exist to protect consumers who unknowingly purchase or lease vehicles with persistent defects that cannot be fixed through standard warranty repairs.
When a manufacturer is given multiple opportunities to correct a substantial problem and the issue continues, the law may require the manufacturer to provide financial relief. These protections are intended to prevent vehicle owners from bearing the cost of defects that were not caused by misuse or neglect.
Qualifying defects often involve critical systems such as the engine, transmission, electrical components, or safety features, but they are not limited to complete breakdowns.
Even intermittent or recurring issues may qualify if they significantly impact the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. Many claims arise after repeated repair visits or extended downtime that disrupts normal vehicle ownership.
| Affected Model | Average Lemon Law Settlement |
| 2023 Kia Forte | $38,237 |
*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.
Get Help from the Lemon Law Experts Today!
Dealing with a defective vehicle is frustrating and can make you feel unsafe. If you plan on bringing a lemon law claim, doing it alone can feel overwhelming. That’s why the Lemon Law Experts are here for you!
Our team would love to assist you with your case and help you get back on the road if possible. Contact us today by calling (877) 885-5366 or by filling out a contact form here on our website.
