2022 KIA FORTE FE, LXS

The auction record lists the vehicle as having a salvage title and identifies the primary damage as FRONT END. Stage 1 reports that the visible evidence supports the stated FRONT END damage code, with severe damage to the hood, front bumper, grille, left front fender, and left front headlamp area. Stage 1 also notes that the salvage-title status cannot be confirmed from photographs alone. The 2022 Kia Forte has severe collision damage concentrated at the front and left front corner. The hood is extensively crumpled, folded, and sharply creased across the front and left side, with its front edge raised above the engine compartment. The front bumper cover is torn, displaced, and largely missing, while the grille and surrounding fascia are absent or broken. This leaves the radiator and other internal front-end components exposed. The left front fender is heavily crushed around the wheel opening and front edge. The left front headlamp assembly is missing, with internal mounting components visible. Open gaps, detached bumper sections, and exposed components are also present around the left front corner. The damage findings do not establish the condition of the engine, radiator, steering, suspension, safety systems, frame or unibody structure, wiring, or other components not visibly assessed. A comprehensive physical inspection and diagnostic evaluation would be required before estimating total repair requirements or determining whether the vehicle is safe to operate. According to the VIN decode, this is a 2022 Kia Forte sedan manufactured by Kia Mexico in Mexico. It is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and is listed with standard ABS, electronic stability control, traction control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and front and side airbag systems. One NHTSA safety recall is listed for this make, model, and year: campaign 22V304000 concerns the steering-column lower universal-joint retention bolt, which may not be properly secured and could result in loss of steering control. Kia’s stated remedy is to inspect and tighten the bolt free of charge. The completion status for this vehicle should be verified with Kia or an authorized dealer.