Is the 2019 Kia Forte a good car?

CarsJudge exclusive data

Active recalls (2)

The 2019 Kia Forte has 2 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Power Train — Axle Assembly — Axle Shaft (campaign 20V459000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.

• Exterior Lighting — Headlights — Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Kia Forte vehicles equipped with LED headlights. The headlights may not have been manufactured with the correct low beam aiming. As such, these vehicles fail to comply…
• Power Train — Axle Assembly — Axle Shaft — Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Forte vehicles. The left front axle driveshaft may not have been heat-treated, which can cause it to break.…

Real owner data from the CarsJudge fleet

3 2019 Kia Forte owners track this exact car in CarsJudge.

Forte years to avoid

• 2015-2016 — Engine problems leading to recalls

5-year cost forecast

• Year 1 (~15,000 mi): $250 — Oil change, Tire rotation
• Year 2 (~30,000 mi): $400 — Brake pad replacement, Cabin air filter change
• Year 3 (~45,000 mi): $600 — Full brake service, Alignment check
• Year 4 (~60,000 mi): $800 — Transmission fluid change, Coolant flush
• Year 5 (~75,000 mi):

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  000 — Battery replacement, Suspension inspection

Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.