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2021 Forte GT-Line CVT Whine and Hesitation

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Chris P. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:06 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Kia Forte GT-Line

Hello everyone,

I'm experiencing some concerning issues with my 2021 Kia Forte GT-Line, which has the IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission, Kia's version of a CVT). I've noticed a distinct whining noise coming from the transmission area, especially when accelerating from a stop or at lower speeds. It's not super loud, but it's definitely there and wasn't before.

Additionally, the car sometimes hesitates when I press the accelerator, almost like it's struggling to find the right 'gear' ratio, before finally catching up. It feels sluggish. I've heard CVTs can be noisy, but this whine seems new and the hesitation is worrying. The car has about 30,000 miles on it. No check engine light yet.

Is this normal for Kia's IVT, or should I be concerned? Any advice on what to look for or what might be causing it?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:06 AM

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Hello David P.,

Your description of a whining noise and hesitation from your 2021 Kia Forte GT-Line's IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) suggests potential issues that warrant investigation. While CVTs can have a different sound profile than traditional automatics, a new or pronounced whine combined with hesitation is not typically normal operation.

Potential Causes:

  1. Low or Degraded Transmission Fluid: CVT fluid is crucial for proper operation. Low fluid levels or fluid that has degraded can cause increased friction, noise, and poor performance. CVTs are very sensitive to fluid quality.
  2. Worn Belt/Pulleys: The core components of a CVT are its belt (or chain) and two variable-diameter pulleys. Wear on these components can lead to whining noises and inefficient power transfer, causing hesitation.
  3. Transmission Control Module (TCM) Software: Sometimes, a software glitch in the TCM can cause hesitation or incorrect ratio management.
  4. Torque Converter Issues: While less common in newer CVTs, a failing torque converter can cause whining and poor power transfer. If a CEL were to appear, a P0741 (Torque Converter Clutch Circuit Performance or Stuck Off) could indicate this.
  5. Internal Bearing Wear: Bearings within the transmission can wear out, leading to noise.

When to See a Shop:

It's important to have your vehicle inspected by a Kia dealership or a transmission specialist promptly. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to more significant transmission damage. Here's what they should check:

  1. Transmission Fluid Inspection: They will check the fluid level, condition, and color. If it's low or burnt, a fluid change might be recommended, but they should also investigate the cause of low fluid.
  2. Diagnostic Scan: Even without a check engine light, a professional scan tool can often reveal pending or historical transmission-related fault codes that might not trigger the dashboard light.
  3. Road Test: A technician will perform a road test to confirm the symptoms and listen for the specific source of the whine.
  4. Software Update: Check for any available software updates for the IVT's TCM.

Given that your vehicle is a 2021 model, it should still be under Kia's powertrain warranty. Ensure the dealership documents all findings and potential repairs under warranty.

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