KNAFK4A60G54867542016 KIA ForteGL (Middle-Low Grade)
Executive Summary
2016 KIA Forte was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There is 1 open recall on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase.
- ▸1 open recall — verify these have been repaired before purchase
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
- Make
- KIA
- Model
- Forte
- Year
- 2016
- Trim / Series
- GL (Middle-Low Grade)
- Body Style
- Sedan/Saloon
- Vehicle Type
- PASSENGER CAR
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline
- Engine
- 4-cyl 1.8L
- Doors
- 4
- Manufacturer
- KIA CORPORATION
- Assembly
- HWASUNG, SOUTH KOREA
- GVWR
- Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.
✓ No high-risk recall components found
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 1 recall below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Average repair completion across 1 recall is ~72%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
KIA completes recalls at a fair rate (86%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~20 months.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~20 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
SummaryKia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Forte 4-door, Forte Koup 2-door, and 2018-2019 Rio 4-door vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."Read full details...
~28% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
Nu (2.0L) and Gamma (1.6L) GDI engines share similar connecting rod bearing failure modes as the Theta II engine. Hyundai and Kia extended warranty coverage following additional NHTSA investigations.
Coverage eligibility depends on your VIN, original sale date, and current mileage. Always verify with an authorized dealer or manufacturer customer service — programs may have been updated since this database was compiled.
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $49,689 (~$828/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
KIA Forte has a Very High theft risk — 6.4× the national average. Insurance premiums are likely significantly above class average.
KIA has been fined $27M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2020: Failure to promptly conduct recalls for Theta II engine defect.
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | KNAFK4A60G5486754 |
| Model Year | 2016 |
| Make | KIA |
| Model | Forte |
| Trim | GL (Middle-Low Grade) |
| Vehicle Type | PASSENGER CAR |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Sedan/Saloon |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Engine
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Displacement (L) | 1.8 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | KIA CORPORATION |
| Assembly City | HWASUNG |
| Assembly Country | SOUTH KOREA |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | KNA |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 0 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | G |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | 5 |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 486754 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 1 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 0 |
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 4/19/2026, 1:27:08 PM.