2021 Kia Forte Recalls

NHTSA lists 2 open recalls for the 2021 Kia Forte. Recall repairs are free at any franchised dealer, however old the vehicle is.

Recall data as of Aug 29, 2026 NHTSA. For a live answer, run the check yourself.

Air Bag/Restraint Control Module

AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE

What's wrong:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Telluride, K5, and Forte vehicles. The Occupant Classification and Detection System (OCS/ODS) unit may not detect the presence of a child restraint system in the front passenger seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk:
In the event of a crash, deployment of the front passenger air bag, with a child in that seat, can increase the risk of injury to the child.
What to do:
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCS/ODS unit, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC207.

NHTSA campaign 21V164000 — quote this at the dealer.Reported Mar 11, 2021.

Steering Column

What's wrong:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Rio and Forte vehicles. A bolt in the steering column may not be secured properly, which can cause the steering column to detach from the steering rack and result in a loss of steering control.
Risk:
Loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
What to do:
Dealers will tighten the lower steering column u-joint retention bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall SC235.

NHTSA campaign 22V304000 — quote this at the dealer.Reported May 5, 2022.

Keep this vehicle

Free. We'll save the car and this recall. Pro can watch for new ones later, if you want that.