VehicleVerdict

2016 Kia Sportage engine problems

The 2016 Kia Sportage has 60 engine complaints filed with NHTSA — 33% of the year's total, and down from the prior model year.

60

Engine complaints

33%

Share of year

0

Crash-involved

1

Related recalls

Engine complaints by year

Related recalls

18V907000EngineDecember 19, 2018 · 71,653 units

Defect

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.

Consequence

A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

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.

What owners report

While driving in highway we noticed a fuel smell. After a little came from front area (hood area) and heard a blast underneath. At the same time the car abruptly stopped in the highway (HOV lane). We also noticed fireballs shooting downward from underneath the car. We had no options but to call…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Engine · December 6, 2022 · fire

Common questions

How many engine complaints does the 2016 Kia Sportage have?

NHTSA has 60 complaints about the 2016 Kia Sportage engine — 33% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2016 Kia Sportage engine?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the engine: 18V907000.

Related

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.