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2016 Kia Sedona Report

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

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

Overall Score

7.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The transmission shift lever's tendency to fail to lock is the primary ownership concern, posing a rollaway risk.
  • Multiple recalls, especially those related to the electrical system and turn signals, require verification of completed repairs.
  • Safety is a strong suit, with top marks in frontal and side crash tests.
  • Fuel economy is reasonable for the segment, aiding in running costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Kia Sedona

The 2016 Kia Sedona presents itself as a practical family hauler with a strong emphasis on safety, boasting 5-star overall NHTSA ratings. Its 3.3L V6 engine delivers adequate power for its class, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Fuel economy is competitive for a minivan, achieving a combined 20 MPG. However, a significant number of recalls, particularly concerning the transmission shift lever and electrical systems, temper its overall appeal. The lack of consumer complaints is unusual given the recall activity, suggesting a need for careful verification of all manufacturer-addressed issues.

Critical Failure Risk

The shift lever assembly may fail to lock in the Park position, creating a rollaway risk. This issue has been addressed by recalls.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls15
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
276HP
Torque
248 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

6.5/ 10

Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families seeking a safe and spacious minivan with good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing bulletproof reliability and minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Kia Sedona Reliability Analysis

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

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
8
Horsepower
276 hp
Torque
248 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Minivan
MSRP Range
$26,400 - $39,900
EPA Combined MPG
20

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Most Common Issues

1. Transmission Shift Lever Lock Malfunction

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Turn Signal Malfunction

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 - $175

7,500 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
15 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Kia Sedona reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Kia Sedona is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 15. Owner complaints: 0.

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

Practicality score is 6.5/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. Seating capacity is 8. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 960 litres.

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

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Kia Sedona is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 6.5/10.

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

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 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission Shift Lever Assembly (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What is the MSRP range for the 2016 Kia Sedona?▾

MSRP range is $26,400 - $39,900.

What engine is in the 2016 Kia Sedona?▾

Engine specs list V6 • 6 • 3.3. Output is 276 hp • 248 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2016 Kia Sedona use?▾

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

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

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

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

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

What is the fuel economy range for the 2016 Kia Sedona?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Sedona, fuel economy range is 18-24 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2016 Kia Sedona?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Sedona, seating capacity is 8.

What body style is the 2016 Kia Sedona?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Sedona, body style is minivan.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Kia Sedona use?▾

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

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

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

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

This model year has 15 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Kia Sedona?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Honda Odyssey and 2016 Toyota Sienna.

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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