2016 Kia Cadenza Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The HECU electrical short is a critical safety concern, with a risk of engine compartment fires. Ensure the recall remedy is applied.
- Despite zero consumer complaints, the 3 recalls and 38 TSBs indicate potential underlying issues beyond the most severe fire risk.
- Fuel economy is respectable for its class, rated at 22 MPG combined.
- The 3.3L V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission provide adequate power for most driving situations.
2016 Kia Cadenza
The 2016 Kia Cadenza offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, aiming for a premium feel in the large sedan segment. Powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, it delivers smooth acceleration for daily driving. Its front-wheel-drive setup prioritizes efficiency over sporty handling. While it boasts a good public reliability score, a significant recall related to the HECU unit and potential for engine compartment fires warrants careful consideration for used buyers. A high TSB count also suggests potential for other, less critical, issues.
Critical Failure Risk
A critical recall addresses an electrical short in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) which can lead to engine compartment fires. While the recall remedy involves replacing the fuse, the underlying defect may persist.
Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable sedan with a V6 engine at a potentially attractive used price.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers prioritizing top-tier reliability and minimal ownership risk.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Kia Cadenza Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Kia Cadenza.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 22
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Most Common Issues
1. HECU Electrical Short and Fire Risk
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Windshield Bonding Issue
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Kia Cadenza reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Kia Cadenza is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2016 Kia Cadenza for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 22 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Kia Cadenza?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Kia Cadenza is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Kia Cadenza?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: HECU Unit (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).
What engine is in the 2016 Kia Cadenza?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.3.
What transmission does the 2016 Kia Cadenza use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Cadenza, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Kia Cadenza?
EPA combined estimate is 22 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Kia Cadenza?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2016 Kia Cadenza?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Cadenza, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Kia Cadenza use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Cadenza, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Kia Cadenza?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.