2016 Kia Sportage Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2016 Sportage achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including 5 stars for frontal and side crash tests.
- This model features a 2.0L four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, returning an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined.
- Significant recalls for HECU module fire risk and potential fuel leaks require careful verification of completed repairs.
- Despite zero consumer complaints logged, the severity of the recalls suggests potential for serious issues.
2016 Kia Sportage
Critical Failure Risk
The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) module can experience an electrical short, leading to a risk of engine compartment fire. This is a critical safety recall item.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,000 repair.
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 prioritizing strong safety ratings in a compact SUV.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a completely worry-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Kia Sportage Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Kia Sportage.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 21
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Most Common Issues
1. HECU Module Fire Risk
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Fuel Line Leak Risk
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Kia Sportage reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Kia Sportage is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2016 Kia Sportage for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Kia Sportage?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Kia Sportage is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Kia Sportage?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: HECU Module (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1000).
What engine is in the 2016 Kia Sportage?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2016 Kia Sportage use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Sportage, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Kia Sportage?
EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Kia Sportage?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2016 Kia Sportage?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Sportage, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Kia Sportage use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Kia Sportage, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Kia Sportage?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Kia Sportage?
This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.