I drive a 2023 Kia Forte GT 6MT. On my way to work, I shifted from 4th to 5th gear and heard a small thud. Suddenly, all gears felt like neutral. The engine was still running fine, no check engine light, and no unusual sounds, so I thought it must be a clutch issue.
When I turned off the car and tried to start it again, the engine wouldn’t crank. I figured the clutch not engaging could be the problem. I had it towed to a Kia dealership, and now they’re telling me, “The engine won’t crank, and you need an engine replacement.”
This doesn’t make sense to me… does it sound right to anyone else?
Sounds like a mess waiting to happen. Imagine waiting months for an engine replacement only for them to say it’s a clutch issue and not covered under warranty. I’d start asking a lot of questions.
Alex said:
Sounds like a mess waiting to happen. Imagine waiting months for an engine replacement only for them to say it’s a clutch issue and not covered under warranty. I’d start asking a lot of questions.
Happened to me with my 2014 Forte LX. The dealership kept my car for 8 months, saying the engine was on backorder. After months of no updates, I finally went to the service department and caused a scene. They gave me my car back, but a week later it broke down completely. At least they let me use a courtesy car during that time.
Alex said:
Sounds like a mess waiting to happen. Imagine waiting months for an engine replacement only for them to say it’s a clutch issue and not covered under warranty. I’d start asking a lot of questions.
If you’re in a one-party consent state, record everything they tell you. Could be useful later if you end up in small claims court.
This doesn’t add up. But if it’s under warranty, let them replace the engine. By the time they’re done, you might get a new clutch and maybe even a new transmission.
MaryJane said:
This doesn’t add up. But if it’s under warranty, let them replace the engine. By the time they’re done, you might get a new clutch and maybe even a new transmission.
As long as they cover a rental car. Otherwise, I’d rather fix the clutch and be back on the road.
It’s a 2023 model, so the engine should be covered. Let them replace it. They’re not going to reinstall the old one if it doesn’t work, so you’ll end up with a new engine.
Malik said:
It’s a 2023 with a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. Just let them handle it. Unless they claim abuse, it shouldn’t cost you anything.
The problem is that it could take weeks, or even months, to get it done. Then, if that doesn’t fix it, you’re looking at even more time. Some of us actually need our cars every day. If they provide a loaner, fine, but otherwise, I’d be concerned.
I had a 2015 Kia Sedona, and the dealership replaced the engine due to a recall I didn’t even know about. Always ask to speak to someone higher up, like the district or regional manager. Stay calm when you talk to them. If they refuse, mention you’ll look up their info online and walk away.
Something feels off. Dealers don’t benefit much from fake engine replacements because Kia requires detailed documentation. If you can, try a different dealership for another opinion.
Davis said:
Something feels off. Dealers don’t benefit much from fake engine replacements because Kia requires detailed documentation. If you can, try a different dealership for another opinion.
I’m taking it to another dealership this Saturday. The car hasn’t been touched since the tow truck dropped it off last week.
@jordansmith
Sounds like they’re just guessing and pushed the paperwork through. Don’t pay anything until you’re sure they’ve actually diagnosed the issue.
@jordansmith
Good move. If the car sits long enough, you might be able to file for a lemon law case depending on where you live. But if they replace the engine and transmission properly, that could actually work in your favour. Just watch out for any hit to resale value.
Doesn’t sound right unless something like the output shaft is completely sheared. Could the problem be with the neutral start switch? That might explain why it won’t crank.