2017 Kia Forte Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 2017 Kia Forte?
The 2017 Kia Forte is a strong contender in the compact sedan segment, offering impressive value and a generally robust powertrain, especially with the 6-speed automatic. While it’s not without its quirks, primarily related to GDI engine maintenance and minor electrical annoyances, a well-maintained Forte represents one of the most cost-effective and dependable choices in the used car market for budget-conscious buyers.
Biggest Strengths
- Excellent value proposition and feature set for the price
- Generally reliable 6-speed automatic transmission (not the problematic IVT)
- Strong safety ratings and available driver-assist features
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2017 Kia Forte. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Forte 4-door, Forte Koup 2-door, and 2018-2019 Rio 4-door vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
What breaks on the 2017 Kia Forte?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Kia Forte by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Kia Forte. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by reliability score.
Relevant Products for Your 2017 Kia Forte
Parts and accessories matched to your 2017 Kia Forte
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Frequently Asked Questions
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