Kia Forte BD
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Kia Forte BD is available with 4 engine variants — from 154 to 179 hp.
The Kia Forte GT 1.6T (Petrol, 201 PS) has the G4FJ (1.6L T-GDi (Gamma II)) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.
The Kia Forte GT 1.6T DCT (Petrol, 201 PS) has the G4FJ (1.6L T-GDi (Gamma II)) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.
The Kia Forte LXS / FE / EX (Petrol, 147 PS) has the G4NA (2.0L MPI) — rated: "Stay Away!", 7 known weaknesses.
The Kia Forte LXS / FE / EX IVT (Petrol, 147 PS) has the G4NA (2.0L MPI) — rated: "Stay Away!", 7 known weaknesses.
Explore more
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Recall NHTSA 21V-259 (SC217): Piston oil rings — engine replacement NHTSA recall 21V-259 / SC217 covers 147,249 Forte BD 2019–2021 vehicles with the 2.0L Nu MPi engine: an inconsistent heat-treating process at the piston ring supplier produced rings that are too hard, causing them to shatter, score cylinder walls, and lead to oil consumption and engine stall. Dealers replace the entire engine at no charge when the defect is confirmed. Symptoms: Blue smoke, dropping oil level, engine stall or power loss while driving, metal particles in the oil. from 100,000 km | Low | |
| Kia Boys theft: missing engine immobilizer Forte BD 2019–2021 models without UVO connectivity are a well-known target of the 'Kia Boys' theft wave in the US. The missing electronic immobilizer made theft possible in under 90 seconds. Kia offers a free anti-theft software update. Symptoms: Vehicle can be started without the correct key; significantly elevated theft risk in US cities. | Low | |
| Recall NHTSA 21V-164: Front passenger occupant classification error NHTSA recall 21V-164 covers Forte BD 2020–2022: the OCS/ODS system may fail to detect a child restraint seat in the front passenger seat and not suppress the airbag as required. Dealers inspect and replace the system at no charge. Symptoms: Airbag warning light, front passenger airbag status LED showing incorrect occupancy. | Low |
Top Reported Issues
Alternatives
BMW 2er U06
Compact (2022–2025)
Hyundai Elantra N CN7 N
Compact (2022–2025)
Audi RS3 8Y
Compact (2021–2025)
BMW 2er Coupé G42
Compact (2021–2026)
Honda Civic FL
Compact (2021–2024)
Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse W206
Compact (2021–2025)
Known Problems and Issues
A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Kia Forte BD (2019–2024) — 11 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: G4NA (2.0L MPI). Typical issues affect Other, Gearbox, Suspension, Electronics.
Forte (G4FJ, 2019–2024) — Be Careful: Turbocharger wear from oil starvation, Excessive oil consumption from piston rings, Carbon deposits on intake valves. Power: 201 PS.
Forte (G4NA, 2019–2024) — Stay Away!: Increased oil consumption from piston ring wear, Piston rings stick — significant oil consumption, Connecting rod bearing wear — recall and class action. Power: 147 PS.
What to watch out for with the Kia Forte? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Kia Forte BD have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Kia Forte BD? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Kia Forte BD engine is the most fun? +
Is the Kia Forte BD worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Kia Forte BD? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee