2016 Kia Sportage
This year's complaint volume is within 30% of this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1995 | 56 |
| 1996 | 57 |
| 1997 | 181 |
| 1998 | 303 |
| 1999 | 284 |
| 2000 | 304 |
| 2001 | 228 |
| 2002 | 234 |
| 2003 | 4 |
| 2005 | 68 |
| 2006 | 111 |
| 2007 | 77 |
| 2008 | 98 |
| 2009 | 80 |
| 2010 | 20 |
| 2011 | 181 |
| 2012 | 392 |
| 2013 | 380 |
| 2014 | 122 |
| 2015 | 146 |
| 2016 | 130 |
| 2017 | 394 |
| 2018 | 158 |
| 2019 | 68 |
| 2020 | 153 |
| 2021 | 46 |
| 2022 | 42 |
| 2023 | 182 |
| 2024 | 64 |
| 2025 | 49 |
| 2026 | 19 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
45% of complaints: engine — 58 distinct reports on file.
FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle hesitated while accelerating. The contact stopped at a stop sign and the vehicle became inoperable. The check engine warning light was illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230912
23% of complaints: service brakes, hydraulic — 30 distinct reports on file.
12% of complaints: electrical system — 16 distinct reports on file.
FIRE7% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 9 distinct reports on file.
FIRE6% of complaints: power train — 8 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS)...
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Campaign 18V907000 — check if this car was fixed
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 K900 and 2014-2016 Sportage vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will install a new fuse for the HECU circuit board, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 22, 2022.
Campaign 22V051000 — check if this car was fixed
Loss of Motive Power
Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2016 Kia Sportage — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (58 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (30 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (16 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 18V907000 (engine, fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 22V051000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2016 Kia Sportage reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2016 Kia Sportage is rated "typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Kia Sportage?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 45% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2016 Kia Sportage have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.