2021 Kia Forte - Maintenance & Specs
The 2021 Kia Forte belongs to a Kia Forte lineup that Know Your Ride tracks across 4 model years, from 2020 to 2024. Engine options on record include the 1.6L, 2.0L, 1.6L I4 / 2.0L I4. It is configured as front-wheel drive with an automatic (am-s7). The 2021 sits mid-run, with both earlier (2020) and later (2024) Forte model years also documented.
It takes 0W-20 full synthetic oil, 4.2 qt with a new filter meeting API SP. Fluid specs on file include Long Life coolant, DOT 3 brake fluid, SP-IV transmission fluid. Know Your Ride lists 14 scheduled maintenance items for this vehicle, the earliest interval falling at 7,500 miles. Documented torque values include oil drain plug 26 ft-lb, lug nut 80 ft-lb, spark plug 18 ft-lb.
NHTSA complaints for this vehicle cluster around engine (14), unknown or other (8), steering (5). A representative report reads: "Driving under normal conditions April 20,2026, on the way to school. Got off the freeway and the vehicle immediately shut-off and the check engine light came..." There are 2 safety recalls on record; one covers: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Telluride, K5, and Forte vehicles. The Occupant Classification and Detection System (OCS/ODS) unit....
EPA fuel economy is rated at 27 city / 35 highway MPG, 30 MPG combined. Estimated annual fuel cost is about $1,450.
Quick Specs
| Oil viscosity | 0W-20 |
| Oil type | Full Synthetic |
| Oil capacity (w/ filter) | 4.2 qt |
| OEM oil spec | API SP |
| Oil filter | Bosch 3323 |
| EPA combined | 30 MPG |
| Tire size | 215/55R17 |
| Coolant | Long Life |
| NHTSA overall | 4 / 5 stars |
| Open recalls on record | 2 |
| Technical service bulletins | 69 |
Common Trouble Codes
- P0300 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
- P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
- P0171 - System too Lean (Bank 1)
- P0128 - Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation
- P0442 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
- P0455 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
- P0700 - Transmission Control System Malfunction
- P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
- U0100 - Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A
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Part of the free Know Your Ride vehicle maintenance reference. Figures are sourced from EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer data and are for general reference - always confirm with your owner's manual.