2016 Kia Forte

The 2016 Kia Forte is a compact car known for its value, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. It was available with two engine options: a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 145 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 173 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Forte’s spacious interior, user-friendly technology, and long warranty. However, some common complaints include lackluster acceleration with the 1.8L engine, reported issues with engine components, and occasional electrical glitches.

Engine

1.8L Inline-4

• Engine Knocking/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported engine knocking noises, often progressing to engine failure. This may be caused by excessive wear on the engine internals, potentially due to oiling issues.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, the solution can range from engine flush/oil change to complete engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (flush/oil change) to $3,000 - $6,000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination (P0420 code), decreased fuel economy, and a sulfur smell coming from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Inline-4

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may stall unexpectedly, especially at idle or low speeds.
  • Solution: Troubleshooting and repair of the fuel system, ignition system, or sensors like the crankshaft position sensor or mass airflow sensor. Software issues can also cause stalling, potentially fixed by a PCM reflash at the dealership.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+ (depending on cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifting between gears, especially noticeable during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change, software update (if available), or in severe cases, transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) to $2,500 - $4,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs up without corresponding acceleration, or the transmission hesitates to engage a gear.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of internal transmission damage, potentially requiring a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible fluid leaking from the rear shock absorbers, resulting in a bouncy or unstable ride, and increased stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to respond to the remote or interior switch, requiring manual locking/unlocking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected door lock actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to pair devices, frequent disconnections, or poor audio quality during calls.
  • Solution: Software update for the infotainment system (if available), or replacement of the Bluetooth module in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) to $200 - $500+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• TPMS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light stays on even when tire pressures are correct, or inaccurate pressure readings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty TPMS sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight lens, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Removal and resealing of the headlight assembly, or replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (resealing) to $300 - $600+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Airbag Sensor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminates on the dashboard, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system, and potential failure of airbags in an accident.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the airbag system, potentially involving sensor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Kia Forte can be a reliable and economical choice, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues reported by owners. The most concerning problems revolve around the engine, particularly the 1.8L variant, where engine knocking and failure have been reported. The transmission can also exhibit issues, such as harsh shifting and slipping. Electrical glitches, like faulty door lock actuators, malfunctioning Bluetooth, and TPMS sensor failures, are also frequent complaints. Suspension and exterior problems are also mentioned, but less severe. The cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the issue. Given the severity of some engine-related problems, a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is recommended before purchasing a used 2016 Kia Forte.