Recalls · problems · safety

2016 Kia Forte: recalls and problems

1 recall and 137 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is engine.

1recalls
137complaints
16crashes reported
6fires reported
13injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Engine68 · 50%
  • Electrical System21 · 15%
  • Unknown Or Other15 · 11%
  • Power Train15 · 11%
  • Vehicle Speed Control14 · 10%
  • Air Bags11 · 8%
  • Service Brakes10 · 7%
  • Exterior Lighting9 · 7%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System6 · 4%
  • Wheels6 · 4%

What owners report

Engine

Im getting denied dued to engine failure but whoever had the vehicle before didn't follow up with the ksds update, i just purchased the vehicle on june 30th,2026, i need this fixed asap because i still owe on this car.

Insert, Padding

When i have the windows down, i can see the headrest flapping in the wind. i took the cover off and discovered that the styrofoam had broken in half. i used foam adhesive to bind it together. once again, windows down and the headrest is still flapping in the wind. look underneath the cover and this time the styrofoam is broken into multiple pieces.

Engine

My 2016 kia forte had a recall that was never performed and i was never told anything about the car fax or any recalls from where i got the car from, it needs a engine repair.

Engine

Car runs fine at lower speeds. when traveling over 50 mph for ten minutes or more, then decelerating or stopping in traffic or at a stop light it stalls. it cranks right back up after you put it neutral and turn the key. we’ve almost been rear ended twice since this started. the car has only been driven about 3000 miles a year over the past 7 years and only about 45 mph. it has been to two shops and hasn’t been driv

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2016 Kia Forte 5 HB FWDNot ratedNot rated★★★★★★★★★★
2016 Kia Forte 4 DR FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering FORTE, FORTE KOUP. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.