2016 Kia Forte power train problems
16 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2016 Kia Forte — 12% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“1. NHTSA Safety Complaint Draft Vehicle Info: Make: Kia Model: Forte5 SX Year: 2016 VIN: [XXX] Engine: 1.6L GDI (G4FJ Nu engine) Issue: This vehicle uses the 1.6L GDI Nu engine (engine code G4FJ), which is the same engine involved in Kia’s engine defect recalls and class action settlements related…”
filed Jul 24, 2025
“We have a 2016 Kia Forte 5 that did not meet the criteria when the other 2016 Kia Forte's were recalled due to engine failure as it has a 2.0L engine. On or about [XXX], while driving this vehicle, the car lost all power and came to a stop on a busy highway. It still had electrical power, but…”
filed Apr 1, 2025
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area…
TSB_TRA046_R5 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Apr 17, 2025
Power Train problems in other Forte years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Forte | 3 | 13% |
| 2023 Forte | 7 | 12% |
| 2022 Forte | 2 | 8% |
| 2021 Forte | 7 | 10% |
| 2020 Forte | 15 | 21% |
| 2019 Forte | 47 | 32% |
| 2018 Forte | 8 | 6% |
| 2017 Forte | 12 | 4% |
| 2015 Forte | 17 | 7% |
| 2014 Forte | 17 | 4% |
| 2013 Forte | 10 | 5% |
| 2012 Forte | 11 | 4% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 Kia Forte
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.