How Long Do Kia Fortes Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan
Red Kia Forte by Mr.choppers - CC-BY-SA-4.0
You know how it is in the automotive market. It’s all SUVs, crossovers, and trucks, and they have overshadowed the once-dominant sedans and hatchbacks. However, despite the dwindling popularity and challenges, the sedan market is far from extinct. Many automakers believe in the enduring appeal of sedans, especially in the EV space. One automaker that stuck with this segment is Kia, including the small sedan Forte.
The Kia Forte is a compact car known for its stylish design, advanced technology features, and affordability. Critics and owners have lauded the Kia Forte for offering a lot of value for its price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Furthermore, its impressive fuel economy goes a long way in contributing to long-term savings. You’re looking at an excellent sedan package with Kia’s industry-leading warranty program.
If you’re interested in this small sedan, you’re probably asking: how long do Kia Fortes last? Having a good grasp of your Forte’s lifespan will help you plan for potential expenses related to major repairs or replacements. Plus, you’ll know when it’s time to sell, trade-in, or just keep driving your Forte.
Today, we discuss the longevity of the Kia Forte, how many miles it can go, and whether it’s a good long-term investment for a used car buyer.
Just How Reliable is the Kia Forte?
How long do Kia Fortes last? First, let’s evaluate its long-term reliability. If a Kia Forte is reliable, it means that it doesn’t frequently encounter issues or require unexpected repairs. Fewer problems mean less wear and tear on the vehicle’s components, which can extend its lifespan. In essence, a reliable car is more likely to have a longer life.
Fortunately, the Kia Forte is one of the most reliable compact cars you can buy. RepairPal has scored the Forte an impressive 4.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating, making it one of the top most reliable cars in the segment. In addition, the average total yearly cost for repairs and maintenance for a Forte is a measly $451, a lot lower than the average of $526 for compact cars. Reputable websites like J.D. Power also gave strong reliability ratings to the Kia Forte. For instance, the 2023 Kia Forte received a score of 87 out of 100 for Quality & Reliability.
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Owners from the Kia Forte forums also echo the sentiment that this small car is highly reliable. Many Kia Forte owners have reported achieving high vehicle mileage without encountering significant problems. In addition, owners across different model years have praised the Forte’s reliability, suggesting consistent performance throughout its iterations.
However, remember that not all Kia Forte model years are created equal. Some Forte model years are less reliable than others. For example, the debut 2010 model year struggled with engine issues, including knocking and oil leaks.
How Many Miles Can a Kia Forte Last?
The good news is that the Kia Forte’s reliability has served its longevity well. While it’s impossible to predict precisely how long do Kia Fortes last, available data and owner testimonies indicate that this small sedan can last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. Therefore, if you drive an average of 12,000 miles annually, a Kia Forte can offer roughly 13 to 17 years of service before mechanical issues arise.
Over at the Forte Forums, owners from all walks of life have shared their high-mileage Kia Fortes with generally positive impressions. One owner with a 2019 Forte EX has driven 118,000 miles. This user, a Domino’s delivery driver, mentioned a mix of city and highway driving in varying climates. Another user with a 2010 Kia Forte LX has driven 154,000 miles, with 70% city and 30% highway driving. Lastly, a user mentioned their sister-in-law has a Forte with a jaw-dropping 380k miles on it, suggesting the potential for the sedan’s longevity.
As per usual, you can only hope to achieve these impressive milestones in your Forte with proper maintenance and care. Other factors that could affect its lifespan include driving conditions and individual usage patterns.
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How Many Miles are Too Many for a Used Kia Forte?
Although the Kia Forte has an impressive estimated lifespan, it’s not always a good idea to go for the first high-mileage unit you’ll see in the used car market. Below is a quick breakdown of what you can expect from a used Kia Forte based on its mileage:
- Rule of thumb: Always check for regular maintenance records. A well-maintained Forte can last longer than one that’s been neglected. Also, newer models of the Forte have seen improvements in reliability and features, so consider that when browning the used car market.
- Under 50,000 miles: These are practically brand-new Kia Fortes and are likely to have a significant portion of their life ahead and might still be under warranty. However, this means they’ll be more expensive as well.
- 50,000 to 100,000 miles: A Forte in this range is in its mid-life and has plenty of miles ahead if adequately maintained. Ensure that significant maintenance jobs, like timing belt replacements or transmission services, have been addressed.
- Over 100,000 miles: Expect to see many great deals for a Fortes in this range. However, you’ll likely observe signs of significant wear, rust, or any impending major repairs. Proper maintenance and excellent service records are more crucial than ever. It’s best to conduct a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection.
- Model year concerns: Forte engines from 2012 to 2015 have been reported to fail before 100,000 miles. Additionally, 2019 models have a new CVT that has been known to fail with just 10,000 miles. Meanwhile, Fortes from 2016-2018 are considered the most reliable.
As always, prioritize a thorough inspection and consider the vehicle’s history when evaluating a used Kia Forte.
THE 10 MOST RELIABLE USED SEDANS
If you’re ready to start shopping for a used car and reliability is a priority for you, take a look at our list of the top 10 most reliable used sedans on the market today.
Is a Kia Forte a Worthy Investment?
How long do Kia Fortes last? We hope this quick guide has answered your questions about the Forte’s longevity. The Forte is about as basic as you can get from a sedan. Still, its spacious and high-quality cabin, fantastic fuel economy, and affordable pricing make it an excellent option in the used car market.
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