2016 Kia Forte problems
The Kia Forte, known as the K3 in Asia, the Forte K3 or Shuma in China and Cerato in South America, Australia, New Zealand and Russia, is a compact car manufactured by South Korean automaker Kia since mid-2008, replacing the Kia Spectra. It is available in two-door coupe, four-door sedan, five-door hatchback variants. It is not available in Europe, where the similar sized Kia Ceed is offered (except for Russia and Ukraine, where the Ceed and the Forte are both available).
In some markets, such as Costa Rica, Australia and Brazil, the Forte is marketed as Kia Cerato, replacing its predecessor of the same name. In Colombia and Singapore, the name Cerato Forte was used for the second generation, while Naza Automotive Manufacturing of Malaysia has assembled the vehicle since 2009, selling it there under the name Naza Forte.
First generation (TD; 2008)
The first generation Forte was introduced in 2008. In North America, the Forte replaced the Kia Spectra, while the Forte retained the Cerato name in numerous markets. It shares the same platform as the Hyundai Avante/Elantra (HD), though employing a torsion-beam rear suspension in place of the Elantra's multilink design. Kia has stated that the Forte was specifically designed to target younger buyers attracted to sharper auto designs.
Succeeding the first generation Cerato or second generation Spectra, several elements of the interior and suspension were changed. The car received a wider (4 cm) and longer (3 cm) body, a longer (4 cm) wheelbase and a wider (7 cm) gauge. However, ground clearance was reduced by a centimeter, thereby reducing the height by a centimeter. At the same time, the design of the rear suspension was simplified, which instead of independent multilink thrust became semi-dependent double-lever, with an elastic beam, which made it more reliable and easy to repair and maintain.
Three body styles, which are compact 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback, and a new 2-door coupe body style was introduced.
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Common 2016 Kia Forte problems
The Kia Forte 2016 has been reported to have several engine problems, which are some of the most common issues for this model year. These include excessive oil burning, oil leaks, sudden loss of power, and complete engine failure. The oil leak problem is caused by the faulty and leaking oil pan seal on the underbody, which can lead to engine stalls and engine failures due to oil deprivation.
In addition to engine problems, the 2016 Kia Forte has also faced electrical issues, including complete electrical system failure. Reports state that the electricals of the vehicle failed suddenly while driving, causing the engine to stall and disabling the power steering and exterior lights. In some cases, the dashboard went out completely, along with other electrical components failing.
Airbag failure is another safety problem reported for the 2016 Kia Forte. Many owners have reported that the airbags did not deploy despite having all the criteria and situations for deployment. This issue has led to accidents and injuries, with affected owners involved in crashes under various scenarios.
Power steering failure is another problem that some owners have experienced. Reports mention that while driving, the vehicles started to pull to one side and became hard to steer, increasing the risk of accidents.
Despite these issues, the Kia Forte has been praised for its spacious cabin, extensive warranty coverage, and striking design language. However, it is essential to perform all the mandatory inspections and get the car from a trusted used car dealer when buying a used example.
Is 2016 a good year for Kia Forte?
The 2016 Kia Forte is one of our top recommended sedans. There are three different engines for the 2016 Kia Forte, two of which offer competitive power and acceleration.
Does 2016 Kia Forte have engine problems?
Apparently this year (2016) model has the same engine defect as the 2015 models. It is burning oil and constantly stalls. The Kia dealerships refuse to even bring up the issue, they just say $5,000 for a new engine right away as if they know what the issue is right off the bat.
What is the most common problem with the Kia Forte?
With proper maintenance and good driving habits, you'll have no trouble getting this car to over 200,000 miles. There are, however, some issues surrounding the Forte across various model years. Some of these include defective speakers, faulty ignition coils, lighting issues, and leaky interiors, among others.
Is there a recall on the 2016 Kia Forte?
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Forte 4-door, Forte Koup 2-door, and 2018-2019 Rio 4-door vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside.
2016 Kia Forte complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Kia Forte.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2016 Kia Forte recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2016 Kia Forte.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Forte 4-door, Forte Koup 2-door, and 2018-2019 Rio 4-door vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
- Consequence: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the trunk latch assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 10, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC216.
Negative 2016 Kia Forte car reviews
Positive 2016 Kia Forte car reviews
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You may have noticed that your vehicle's acceleration is not as strong when going uphill.
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I recently purchased a used 2016 Forte5 EX after trading in my old 2000 CRV LX. During my search, I test drove several models including the Elantra GT, Honda Fit, and Civic Hatchback. I did not try the Focus Hatchback due to a lack of impressive features during a previous rental experience, and I also heard that its reliability score is low. Additionally, I did not try the Mazda 3 Hatchback due to its small backseat and cargo space, as well as its very similar interior design to my current CX5. Ultimately, I chose the Forte5 because it was a lot less expensive than the Civic Hatchback, had better interior design and body style than the Elantra, and was more powerful than the Fit (which felt like driving a toy car). I have now driven around 1000 miles and can confidently say that I am enjoying the ride. While it is bumpier than my 2012 Honda Accord, I appreciate the direct feeling of the road conditions on the steering wheel. The acceleration is unexpectedly powerful and smooth, and I have been able to achieve 37 mpg during my daily commute. The steering is quite responsive and nimble, although I do feel more rough movement when it starts than in any other car I have driven. However, I have realized that this is likely by design, as I do not feel any engine roughness while driving. At the beginning, I experienced some engine misfires, but I soon realized that I needed to hold the key in the ignition position a little longer to start the engine. Overall, I am very pleased with my purchase and would highly recommend the 2016 Kia Forte5, despite my initial hesitation about owning a Korean car. While I am still waiting to assess its reliability, I have no hesitation in giving it a huge kudos.
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The price for the base model with popular package (+$1000) is definitely worth it. One of the main reasons I chose Kia is because they do not use the CVT transmission that all the other brands in its class do. The 1.8L engine has plenty of power, even with the air conditioner on high and with passengers. The interior is very nice for a base model, and the popular package gets you a lot, including a backup camera, Bluetooth, and more. Trunk space is the best in its class. If you can get a 2016 with the PP for under $18K, you will not regret it. And remember the transmission! CVT's wear out at around 70,000 miles and cost around $7000 to replace (they cannot be repaired). Perhaps this is why Kia chooses not to use them because of their 100,000 mile warranty. Kia uses the dual clutch transmission, which is a great choice. The hand controls are very ergonomic, which helps keep your eyes on the road. Kia does not deal with Takata Airbags (look up Takata Airbag Inflators). I cannot stress enough about staying away from any auto that is equipped with the CVT transmission. Kia, along with Mobis (a German engineering company), has engineered great autos. The only con I have is that when driving the Forte, all you see is the road, which is great for an experienced driver, but for a beginner, they are bound to misjudge, resulting in hitting curbs, etc.
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I bought this car as my daily commuter, driving 90+ miles a day round trip to and from work. I am very pleased with its performance, averaging over 40 mpg. I gave the car five stars in performance because it outperforms other cars in its class and price range. The manual transmission version (which I drive) accelerates circles around other subcompacts like Corolla, Sentra, and Fit (not Hyundai -- same platform). While its cornering isn't amazing, it's still a great car for the price. Reviewers who criticize a sub $20K car's performance because it won't compare with that of a $60K sports car are being unfair. This is actually my second KIA, having owned a 2013 Soul which I put 130K miles on with no problems whatsoever. Likewise, I have had no issues with the Forte. When this one reaches 100K miles, I'll most likely trade it for another KIA. The 100K mile warranty is the best in the industry.
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I can tell you that I absolutely love driving my Forte! One of the coolest features is that when I open the doors, the mirrors automatically adjust to the perfect position. It's also incredibly spacious and handles every turn like a dream. Plus, the engine is the perfect size and gets amazing gas mileage. And let's not forget about the heated seats, steering wheel, and sunroof - they make every drive feel like a luxury experience!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2016 Kia Forte problems:
2016 Kia Forte Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2016 Kia Forte? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Kept up with oil changes on Kia Forte and engine still went idle on ...
Jan 18, 2022 ... The biggest problem here is that it's a Kia. They've been known for their more recent models having engines that are just flawed. Think there ...
2016 Kia Forte Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Climate System · Paint And Trim · Steering And Suspension · Engine Major · Transmission Major · Fuel System/Emissions · Brakes.
2016 LX Engine Issue | Kia Forte Forum
Sep 23, 2016 ... The car will shake after a cold / hard start. If it shakes a lot due to spark plug misfire, it will throw a code and you will get a check engine ...
Common 2016 Kia Forte LX Problems: Fan Not Working | JustAnswer
May 28, 2020 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
Other years of Kia Forte
Are you having problems with your 2016 Kia Forte?
Boyd Lueilwitz 2024-10-09
If you are considering purchasing a 2016 Kia Forte Ex, I would like to share my experience with you. While the engine has good power, I have found that the transmission can be hesitant, especially on the freeway. Additionally, I have had some issues with rattling in the car, but after the fourth repair attempt, the issue was finally resolved. I have also found that the car's traction control system can be overly sensitive, even when turned off. The brakes can overheat and fade in stop-and-go situations, and the driver's seat lacks support. However, I understand that every car has its own unique set of issues, and I encourage you to do your own research before making a decision. Thank you for considering my experience.
Jocelyn Waters 2024-07-01
Kia does not come with spare tires or a jack. Despite replacing three brand new batteries, my car still has issues starting. Even after running a diagnostic on the entire car, the Kia dealer informed me that all systems function perfectly. However, I am still experiencing the same issue. It is frustrating to have been paying for a car that I cannot drive for the past few months. I am confident that a solution can be found and I will continue to work towards resolving this issue.
Jasmin Crona 2024-05-10
What a great looking car! The taillights and headlights are absolutely amazing, and the folding mirrors with lights and frameless windows give it a luxurious feel. The seats are incredibly comfortable, perfect for long road trips. Although the stereo could be better, the fuel economy and power from the 1.6 turbo are fantastic, and the car handles and shifts like a dream. It's a shame that there were some issues with engine lights and misfires during ownership, but overall it was a great car. The dash did rattle a bit over bumps, but that's a minor issue. Ultimately, I decided to trade it in for a Mazda, but I have fond memories of my time with this car.
Fausto Funk 2024-03-09
The car may seem great on paper, but unfortunately, real-world driving has been a letdown.
Moises Schuppe 2024-03-07
They can cause cupping and wear on the back tires, which can be frustrating. I've had to replace a set of tires every 6 months, which is not ideal. Kia blames alignment, but mechanics say that rear shims are needed and that this is a problem with all Fortes from 2010 to 2017. It's important to get this issue resolved to avoid further damage to your car.