2016 Kia Forte recalls and problems

The 2016 Kia Forte has 1 safety recall and 137 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

137

Crashes / fires

16 / 6

Injuries / deaths

13 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2016 Kia Forte vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2016 Kia Forte recalls

Recall 21V-622: Latches/Locks/Linkages

Reported Aug 9, 2021 · 253,074 vehicles affected · Kia Motors America

Problem: 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."

Risk: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.

Fix: 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.

2016 Kia Forte problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Engine	66
Electrical System	23
Power Train	16
Unknown or Other	15
Vehicle Speed Control	14
Air Bags	13
Exterior Lighting	11
Service Brakes	10
Wheels	6
Fuel/Propulsion System	6
Steering	5
Structure	5

Most reported parts

Structure › Body — 4
Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 2
Electrical System › Ignition › Anti-Theft › Immobilizer/Proximity › Key/Sender — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 44,500 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2016 Kia Forte complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Exterior Lighting · reported Oct 3, 2026

The Headlights and ALL exterior lights FLICKER or TURN OFF ENTIRELY while driving, especially when touching the Multi-Function Turn Signal Stalk to signal a turn. This can and HAS happened when the Headlights are switched on any mode: MARKER LIGHTS, HEADLIGHTS, or AUTO. I can be driving, Headlights are on AUTO - suddenly - ALL HEADLIGHTS/EXTERIOR LIGHTS FLICKER OR TURN OFF. I have to quickly touch the Multi-Function Stalk or switch it from AUTO to HEADLIGHTS to keep the lights on. I then have to be careful when using the same Stalk to signal turns or it may cause the lights to flicker or turn…

Engine · reported Aug 31, 2026

Im getting denied dued to engine failure but whoever had the vehicle before didn't follow up with the ksds update, I just purchased the vehicle on June 30th,2026, I need this fixed ASAP because I still owe on this car.

Insert, Padding · reported Aug 21, 2026

When I have the windows down, I can see the headrest flapping in the wind. I took the cover off and discovered that the styrofoam had broken in half. I used foam adhesive to bind it together. Once again, windows down and the headrest is still flapping in the wind. Look underneath the cover and this time the Styrofoam is broken into multiple pieces.

Engine · reported Aug 10, 2026

My 2016 Kia Forte had a recall that was never performed and I was never told anything about the car fax or any recalls from where I got the car from, it needs a engine repair.

Engine · reported Jul 19, 2026

Car runs fine at lower speeds. When traveling over 50 mph for ten minutes or more, then decelerating or stopping in traffic or at a stop light it stalls. It cranks right back up after you put it neutral and turn the key. Weâve almost been rear ended twice since this started. The car has only been driven about 3000 miles a year over the past 7 years and only about 45 mph. It has been to two shops and hasnât been driven since May 15th.

Other Kia Forte years

2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 201720162015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010

Compare all Kia Forte years · All Kia models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2016 Kia Forte have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2016 Kia Forte: 21V-622 (latches/locks/linkages). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2016 Kia Forte?

Owners report engine problems most often (66 reports), followed by electrical system (23). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 44,500 miles.

Are Kia recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.