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2016 Kia Forte Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ryan Davis
2016 Kia Forte Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 Kia Forte has an average reliability rating, underscoring the need for careful inspection.
  • A key concern is the trunk latch mechanism, which was subject to a recall. Ensure this repair has been performed.
  • Despite no reported owner complaints, a high volume of TSBs suggests other potential issues may arise.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 28 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Kia Forte

The 2016 Kia Forte presents a practical option in the compact car segment, balancing decent fuel economy with a straightforward driving experience. While it boasts good safety ratings in side impacts and rollover, its overall reliability is rated as average. This average rating is influenced by a notable recall concerning the trunk latch mechanism and a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), suggesting potential underlying quality concerns despite a lack of direct owner complaints. Buyers should prioritize checking the trunk latch recall status and be aware of the potential for other intermittent issues indicated by the TSB volume.

Critical Failure Risk

The trunk latch mechanism can fail, preventing the trunk from opening. This is a safety-related issue addressed by recalls.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$600 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
28
MPG
City
24
MPG
Highway
35
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.3/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical compact car with reasonable fuel efficiency.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing top-tier reliability and minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Kia Forte Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Kia Forte.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
28

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Most Common Issues

1. Trunk Latch Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Kia Forte reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Kia Forte is 9.3/10. Reliability score is 9.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2016 Kia Forte for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Kia Forte?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Kia Forte is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Kia Forte?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $200 - $350. Repair prediction highlight: Trunk Latch Assembly (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What engine is in the 2016 Kia Forte?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2016 Kia Forte use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Forte, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Kia Forte?▾

EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Kia Forte?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Kia Forte?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Forte, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Kia Forte use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Forte, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Kia Forte?▾

NHTSA ratings: Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Kia Forte?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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