CarRecallWatchThe 2016 Kia Forte has 1 safety recall on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 136 complaints with NHTSA, including 16 crashes, 6 fires, 13 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Engine (66 reports).
2016 Kia Forte recalls
Trunk May Not Open From Inside, Risking Trapped Occupants
The trunk latch can become damaged, which may prevent the trunk from being opened from the inside.
Most common 2016 Kia Forte problems
Problem areas named in the 136 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Engine | 66 |
| Electrical System | 22 |
| Power Train | 16 |
| Unknown Or Other | 15 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 14 |
| Air Bags | 13 |
| Exterior Lighting | 10 |
| Service Brakes | 10 |
| Wheels | 6 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 6 |
What owners report
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 off entirely AGAIN. THIS ISSUE CAN OCCUR EVERY DAY IF I'M NOT VERY DELICATE WITH THE MULTI-FUNCTION
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.
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.
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.
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.
2016 Kia Forte questions
Does the 2016 Kia Forte have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 2016 Kia Forte: Trunk May Not Open From Inside, Risking Trapped Occupants. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Kia Forte?
Based on 136 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (66), Electrical System (22), Power Train (16).
How do I check if a recall on my 2016 Kia Forte has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.