Honda Civic vs Kia Forte
For 2010–2022 models, the Honda Civic has 15.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 21.1 for the Kia Forte. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2010–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Honda Civic
15.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
26% fewer than the Kia Forte
- Complaints
- 6,085
- Sold
- 3,878,662
- Recall campaigns
- 30
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2016 and 2022. Fewest: 2011 and 2020–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 83,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 40,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 41,000 mi
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 46,600 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 31,307 mi
Kia Forte
21.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.3× the Honda Civic’s rate
- Complaints
- 2,441
- Sold
- 1,154,385
- Recall campaigns
- 15
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2010, 2012 and 2014–2015. Fewest: 2016 and 2020–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 91,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 63,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 62,000 mi
-
Oil consumption and leaks
Typically around 83,511 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Honda Civic or the Kia Forte?
For 2010–2022 models, the Honda Civic has 15.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Kia Forte has 21.1, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Honda Civic?
The most-reported problem on the Honda Civic is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 83,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Kia Forte?
The most-reported problem on the Kia Forte is internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings), typically around 91,000 miles.
Which Honda Civic and Kia Forte years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Honda Civic: 2016 and 2022; Kia Forte: 2010, 2012 and 2014–2015.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.