2016 Kia Sportage recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2016 Kia Sportage and 134 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (62), service brakes (38), hydraulic (31). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 22–23 mpg combined, depending on engine. 1 recall carries a Park It or Park Outside warning.
The 2016 ranks #7 of 14 Sportage model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (171). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.8 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2016 Kia Sportage. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Service brakes, hydraulic · antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip · control unit/module
Problem: 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.
Risk: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: 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. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC227.
Fuel system, gasoline · delivery · hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Problem: 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) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
My 2016 Kia Sportage LX experienced a catastrophic engine seizure on September 9, 2026, at 91,249 miles. My son was returning home on I-95 South in Florida. After exiting at Sample Road and traveling west near Seabra Foods at approximately 40 mph, he first noticed unusual engine noises at an estimated 91,245 miles. He pulled over, immediately called me, and sent a video record…
The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) and electrical system malfunctioned, causing a severe short circuit, total power collapse, and an engine compartment thermal event (heavy smoke). The vehicle has an open, incomplete federal safety recall (NHTSA 22V051 / Kia SC227) for this exact fire and short-circuit hazard. The vehicle is intact, unmodified, and available for inspe…
I have a 2016 Kia Sportage Ex with under 71k miles. I’ve reach out the Kia headquarters about my engine in July because my engine has a blow by. My vehicle has never been in an accident and I always keep my engine clean. I always change my oil on time and now I’m having engine failure with under 71k miles??!! I’ve only done local driving and now Kia told me there’s nothing they…
Safety ratings
2016 Kia Sportage SUV AWD
2016 Kia Sportage SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2016 Kia Sportage.
Sportage AWD
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Sportage FWD
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2016 Kia Sportage have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2016 Kia Sportage, most recently for service brakes, hydraulic · antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip · control unit/module (02/02/2022). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Kia Sportage?
Based on 134 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (62), service brakes (38), hydraulic (31).
Is the 2016 Kia Sportage safe?
The 2016 Kia Sportage earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings. It has 1 recall with a Park It or Park Outside warning, so check your VIN.
Is the 2016 a good year for the Kia Sportage?
The 2016 ranks #7 of 14 Sportage model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (171). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.8 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2016 Kia Sportage get?
EPA ratings for the 2016 Kia Sportage range from 22 to 23 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2016 Kia Sportage in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: SPORTAGE, Sportage.