2014 Kia Forte steering problems

Updated from NHTSA data · How we count

47 owners have reported steering problems with the 2014 Kia Forte, 17% of all complaints about this model year. The typical problem appeared around 65,000 mi.

Steering complaints
47
Crashes
2
Fires
0
Injuries
2
Related recalls
0
Median mileage
65,000 mi

Specific components reported

Steering covers: Power steering, steering column and wheel, loss of steering assist.

ComponentComplaints
Steering47

Steering complaints across Kia Forte years

22010120115201262013472014120153201642017320187201932020920214202215202312024
Steering complaints by model year. The 2014 is highlighted.

Mileage when the problem appeared

Under 10k210k–30k330k–60k460k–100k1100k–150k1150k+
Complaints that list mileage, grouped by odometer reading.

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

  1. Filed Sep 24, 202653,280 miAZSteering
    The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the steering wheel became difficult to operate. The contact stated that the steering wheel would knock from left to right and would unexpectedly seize. Due to the failure, the steering became difficult to control. The vehicle was taken to a service center, where the failure was confirmed to be related to the steering system. The contact was advised not to drive the vehicle. The vehicle was…
    NHTSA complaint #11766772 · source
  2. Filed Aug 31, 2026KYSteering
    There is a bad flexible steering coupler. Caused steering wheel to click and lose responsiveness, shakes going over bumps. The problem was diagnosed and confirmed by the dealer Vehicle was inspected by dealer There were no warning signs other than the wheel click and losing responsiveness.
    NHTSA complaint #11761015 · source
  3. Filed Jan 15, 202610,243 miPASteering
    The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that there was a ticking sound coming from the steering column while turning the steering wheel in either direction while driving at slow speeds. The contact stated that over time, the clicking sound became progressively louder. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who replaced the steering wheel coupler, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The…
    NHTSA complaint #11711097 · source
  4. Filed Sep 26, 2025ALElectrical SystemSteering
    Steering column is broken and keeps falling. Hard to replace entire steering column. While driving the entire steering wheel will fall into lap, makes the car nearly un-drivable. I have fixed before but the entire part is now failing and is extremely dangerous.
    NHTSA complaint #11689852 · source
  5. Filed Jun 13, 2025CASteering
    MDPS Flexible Steering Coupler Fails on all these cars but only Optima’s got covered even though the same defective coupler is used in the Forte’s Here is the memo for the Optima’s TSB: CHA072 / CS1604 (Rev 2) Optima (QF/TF/TFH) August 2016
    NHTSA complaint #11666663 · source
  6. Filed Jun 1, 2025OKLightingSteering
    The MDPS power steering coupler became worn out causing erratic steering issues.the coupler part its self is not even listed on the vehicle so the dealership would only recommend replacing the entire MDPS. i replaced the coupler myself due to lack of affordability for entire motor. steering is now fixed. additional ongoing issue with left turn signal bulbs have burned out repeatedly within days of being changed cuurently the bulb is working but the system doesnt register…
    NHTSA complaint #11664203 · source
  7. Filed Feb 25, 2025PASteering
    Steering started acting funny, I called Kia [phone removed] about their Technical service bulletin and spoke with TY he stated this is not a manufacturer defect and is not covered for repair since there wasnt a recall. MDPS Flexible Coupling Replacement Technical Service Bulletin Ref: CHA074 REV 2 Date of Issue: April 3, 2019 Kia - 2014 Forte Group: Chassis
    NHTSA complaint #11644844 · source
  8. Filed Jan 25, 2025PADriver Assistance & Safety TechAcceleration & Cruise ControlSteering
    Sterling wheel begins to shake at high speed and a lower speed causing the whole steering wheel to shake and make noise. And have realized the cruise control is no longer working
    NHTSA complaint #11638537 · source
  9. Filed Dec 19, 2024NCSteering
    Popping noise from steering and play in steering wheel. Was informed by a local mechanic that is was the steering coupler for the MDPS unit. Checked and saw a recall for the same issue with the Kia Soul but saw nothing for the Forte even though Hyundai had a recall for the Elantra and Sonata for the same issue. This is a vital part of the car and if it breaks as easy as it does it needs to be recalled on all the vehicles that have it and not just certain ones. I have not had…
    NHTSA complaint #11631548 · source
  10. Filed Nov 8, 2024NJSteering
    I was driving the Forte and my steering wheel started to feel loose. It would click when I turned it. When I would go over a speed bump or hit a pot hole, my steering would jolt and make a loud noise. While driving on the highway, steering seemed loose and wasn't stable. I drove slower because I was afraid the problem would become worse or I would lose control of the steering.b
    NHTSA complaint #11624247 · source
  11. Filed Aug 28, 202443,350 miKYSteering
    The contact's mother owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated that while driving and turning the steering wheel, the steering wheel made an abnormal popping sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the flexible coupling in the MDPS (motor-driven power steering) needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to Kia Campaign Number: 074. The dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer…
    NHTSA complaint #11611444 · source
  12. Filed Aug 2, 202411,503 miFLSteering
    The contact owns a 2014 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel made an abnormal sound and jerked abnormally. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the flexible coupling valves needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall and to Customer Satisfaction Program: CS1604/WTY006. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a…
    NHTSA complaint #11606186 · source

Other 2014 Kia Forte problem areas

  • Engine (168)
  • Airbags (35)
  • Other / Unknown (34)
  • Electrical System (30)
  • Fuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion (14)
  • Brakes (12)
  • Transmission & Drivetrain (11)
  • Seats & Seat Belts (9)
  • Driver Assistance & Safety Tech (7)
  • Body & Structure (7)
  • Acceleration & Cruise Control (7)
  • Lighting (6)
  • Suspension (3)
  • Wheels & Tires (2)

Back to all 2014 Kia Forte problems →

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology