NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2019 Kia Forte
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Kia Forte is a compact sedan aimed squarely at budget-conscious commuters and first-time buyers who want a practical, fuel-efficient car without a premium price tag. Competing in one of the most crowded segments on the market, the Forte has steadily built a reputation for value-forward transportation across its 2019 through 2024 model years, making its safety profile a critical consideration for shoppers.
The 2019 Kia Forte earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 75 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Kia Forte as a competitive and well-rounded compact sedan that punches above its price point in terms of features and interior quality. Most acknowledge it as a sensible, practical choice for daily driving, though professional assessments tend to note that rivals in the segment offer sharper driving dynamics and that the Forte's strengths lean more toward value and comfort than outright excitement.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 13332
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT20V459000
Risk: A broken driveshaft can result in a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left front axle driveshaft for a heat treatment verification code, and replace it if the code is missing, free of charge. The recall began September 2, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC195.
Reported 2020-08-05
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS18V771000
Risk: If the headlights are not properly aimed, the driver may have reduced visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlight aiming and replace the headlights, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 30, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC171.
Reported 2018-10-31
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
145 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.