Kia has announced a recall affecting a small number of 2023 Forte models due to issues with the front lower control arms. The recall, affecting 215 units, was prompted by reports of control arm failure, potentially caused by shoddy welds. The investigation revealed a manufacturing error by Donghee Mexico, the supplier responsible for the faulty welds.
Kia America, upon receiving a report of a broken control arm, collected the component for analysis, confirming the welding defect. The recall documentation has been filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and no other related incidents have been reported before this discovery.
Owners will be notified by April 17, with dealers informed earlier on April 12. The affected vehicles, manufactured between April 12, 2023, and May 8, 2023, can be identified using the VIN lookup tool on the automaker’s website or the NHTSA’s portal.
Aside from the recall, the 2023 Forte lineup continues to offer attractive features, with a starting price of $19,990 before destination. The lineup includes various trim levels, each equipped with standard automatic emergency braking and other amenities, making it a compelling option in its segment.