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Kia Forte: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2024 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2022 (88/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2022 88 · 2024 87 · 2020 83 · 2021 79

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202487/100
Buy

22 complaints · 0 recalls

202364/100
Caution

56 complaints · 3 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202288/100
Buybest year

25 complaints · 1 recalls

202179/100
Buy

67 complaints · 2 recalls

202083/100
Buy

71 complaints · 0 recalls

201977/100
Buy

145 complaints · 2 recalls

201876/100
Buy

134 complaints · 3 recalls

201765/100
Caution

300 complaints · 3 recalls

201664/100
Unproven

0 complaints · 1 recalls

201574/100
Buy

257 complaints · 1 recalls

201467/100
Caution

437 complaints · 3 recalls

201364/100
Caution

195 complaints · 5 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201264/100
Caution

289 complaints · 4 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201164/100
Caution

160 complaints · 3 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

Zeroing in on the 2022?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2022 Kia Forte’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2024 Kia Forte head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Kia Forte as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.