TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: SUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI2105Y/Z) - 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. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published (PI2105) titled “Nu 2.0L GDI - Knock Sensor Detection System ECU Logic Improvement”. Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after installation of the KSDS, any one of the subject vehicles below return to the dealer with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 (Kno
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2016 Kia Forte Koup engine problems
severe 42 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100 · see engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
42
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
1crash
1fire
3injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 42 engine complaints filed for the 2016 Kia Forte Koup, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 100,000-125,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Engine accounts for 32% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 10 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 42 engine complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (PI2105) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2016 MY Kia Forte and Forte Koup vehicles equipped with 2.0-liter engines to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage. The update will be done free of charge and will only involve the addition of newly developed computer software for the Engine Control Unit ("ECU").
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (PI2105) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2016 MY Kia Forte and Forte Koup vehicles equipped with 2.0-liter engines to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage. The update will be done free of charge and will only involve the addition of newly developed computer software for the Engine Control Unit ("ECU") (PI2105).
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI2105Y/Z) - This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published (PI2105) titled "Nu 2.0L GDI - Knock Sensor Detection System ECU Logic Improvement". Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after installation of the KSDS, any one of the subject vehicles below return to the dealer with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 (Knock Signal Range/Performance).
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - 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. This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2019MY vehicles (refer to table below for applicable model and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners describe sudden, catastrophic engine failure—loud knocking or complete stalling—often without warning lights. Failure happens across a wide mileage range, from 40,000 to 160,000 miles, with many occurring between 60,000 and 115,000. In most cases, the check engine light comes on only after stalling begins, or not at all.
Mechanics find metal shavings in oil, worn connecting rods, or failed crankshaft bearings. Some owners report the oil pressure light finally illuminating as failure occurs, despite regular oil changes per manufacturer spec. One owner documented four separate catalytic converter replacements on the same vehicle in roughly three years, alongside knock sensor issues, engine assembly replacement, and repeated sensor failures—a cascade of problems suggesting systemic engine degradation.
A few owners report excessive oil burning, rapid oil depletion between changes, fire with smoke, or stalling at low speeds. One owner's vehicle failed again just miles after the dealership finished a four-month engine replacement.
Kia denies coverage on most failures, citing warranty expiration at 60,000 miles for second owners, lack of complete oil-change receipts, or the car's need for a knock sensor software update—which Kia sent to the original owner, not subsequent buyers. The manufacturer issued a "performance improvement" notice rather than a recall, and some dealers refuse to diagnose unless full service history is documented.
Repair costs for engine replacement range from $3,500 to $8,000 for used units alone.
Failure modes owners describe
Catastrophic engine failure with loss of power and stalling
Engine loses power suddenly without warning while driving at various speeds (15 mph to 70 mph), vehicle stalls and will not restart or restarts intermittently. Owners report no warning lights before failure or lights appearing only after stall begins. Interpreted by owners and independent mechanics as internal engine damage including connecting rod bearing failure, crankshaft failure, or internal metal damage.
When: Failure occurs across a wide range of mileage: 40,000 to 160,000 miles; most commonly reported between 60,000 and 115,000 miles. Owners report failures both within and beyond factory warranty period.
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of engine power while driving; Engine stalls without restart capability or stalls intermittently; Loud knocking or banging noise from engine before failure; Check engine light (sometimes delayed or not present); Battery or oil pressure warning lights (variable presence); Vehicle cannot accelerate or accelerates poorly before stall; No prior warning in many cases
Codes mentioned: P1326 (Knock Sensor Detection system failure), P0017, P0016
Repairs/costs cited: Engine replacement cost approximately $3,500 to $8,000 for used engine alone. Multiple owners report dealer denial of warranty coverage citing mileage over 60,000 miles for second owners, lack of oil change receipts, or incomplete maintenance records. Some owners report Kia initially approving repair then denying after inspection.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia has issued a 'performance improvement' notice (not labeled as recall) for knock sensor software update directed to original owner, not subsequent owners. Extended warranty programs mentioned in some cases. Kia denies coverage citing warranty expiration, maintenance record gaps, or alleged neglect. Some dealers refuse diagnosis if complete oil change history not provided.
Engine knocking with oil pressure and lubrication issues
Owners report knocking sounds accompanied by oil pressure warning lights and low oil conditions. Mechanics find metal shavings or shards in oil and describe inadequate oil reaching engine block. Owners maintain they changed oil regularly per manufacturer specifications. Oil light either does not illuminate or illuminates only after knocking begins, preventing early warning.
When: Reported at mileage between 79,000 and 98,000 miles in these specific complaints; occurs after regular oil changes with no gaps in service.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine knocking or rattling sound; Oil pressure warning light illuminated; Low oil level despite recent oil change; Metal shavings or shards in oil filter; Oil not reaching top of engine block; Metallic sound from engine; Engine stalling when oil pressure drops
Repairs/costs cited: Oil pan plug detachment reported in one case (replaced at 40,000 miles). Multiple owners report finding metal debris in oil requiring oil changes; some mechanics diagnose worn connecting rods or internal bearing damage. No cost figures provided for lubrication-related repairs caught early.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia refuses coverage under warranty, citing improper maintenance or incomplete oil change records, despite owner documentation. Dealer refuses diagnosis without complete oil change history.
Catalytic converter failure recurring multiple times
One owner documents four separate catalytic converter replacements within approximately 3 years, with check engine light illuminating each time. Owner also reports knock sensor replaced twice, engine assembly replaced once, cracked charcoal canister replaced, O2 sensor replaced, and canister purge valve replaced—all within the same timeframe on the same vehicle.
When: Initial knock sensor issue within first 30 days of ownership; subsequent failures between November 2022 and August 2025 with catalytic converter requiring replacement at least four separate times.
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminated repeatedly; Knock sensor issues within first month; Catalytic converter failure (four separate instances)
Repairs/costs cited: Repeated catalytic converter replacement (four times documented); knock sensor replaced twice; engine assembly replaced once (December 2022); O2 sensor replaced; cracked charcoal canister replaced; canister purge valve replaced. Pattern suggests ongoing exhaust and sensor system problems beyond typical component lifespan.
Excessive oil burning and consumption
Engine burns oil rapidly between service intervals despite no visible leaks. Owners find metal shavings in oil early in ownership lifespan suggesting internal wear. One owner reports oil burning within 5 months of purchase; another reports depletion shortly after oil change. Mechanics indicate piston rings not functioning correctly.
When: Occurs within first 5 months of ownership in one case; another case at 74,000 miles. One complaint reports car burning through oil between oil changes at approximately 40,000 miles cumulative.
Symptoms owners cite: Rapid oil depletion between changes; No visible external leaks; Metal shavings in oil; Check engine light (sometimes delayed); No oil pressure warning light until failure imminent
Repairs/costs cited: One mechanic diagnosed worn piston rings requiring engine replacement. Metal shavings indicate internal engine wear; mechanics note this engine type is 'notorious' for rapid wear. Owners report dealer oil tests showing 'nothing wrong' despite consumption continuing.
Engine fire and thermal runaway
Vehicle catches fire while driving with excessive oil and fuel burning. Smoke and fire develop after pull-over, with vehicle unable to restart. Fire department required to extinguish. Owner sustained emotional distress and required medical attention.
When: Approximately 60,000 miles; vehicle was making abnormal engine noises prior to fire event.
Symptoms owners cite: Excessive oil and fuel burning; Abnormal engine noises; Smoke from engine; Fire development; No warning indicator lights before event
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership diagnosis identified pulley replacement as required repair; vehicle was repaired but additional damage not documented. Fire and smoke damage extensive enough to require emergency response.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified but no additional assistance provided beyond pulley replacement diagnosis.
Engine stalling at low speeds and rough idle
Vehicle stalls unexpectedly at low speeds (parking lot speeds, traffic lights, stop signs) with minimal warning. Oil pressure light may illuminate but engine light typically absent or delayed. Vehicle restarts immediately when restarted manually. Rough idle and shaking reported in association with stalling episodes.
When: Occurs intermittently at various mileage points; one documented case at lower mileage ranges during normal driving.
Symptoms owners cite: Stalling at low speeds without acceleration; Oil pressure warning light (sometimes); No check engine light in some cases; Vehicle restarts immediately after stall; Radio continues playing during stall suggesting electrical system functional; Rough idle and engine shaking
Repairs/costs cited: No error codes retrieved in diagnostic scans in some cases despite stalling occurring repeatedly; one owner reports dealer unable to diagnose because no codes present.
Electrical system failures and warning light issues
Owners report non-functional turn signals and brake lights despite bulb replacement, alternator requiring replacement twice on same vehicle, and failure of warning lights to illuminate before catastrophic failure. One vehicle experienced stalling related to electrical problems.
When: Turn signal and brake light issues documented on same vehicle that later stalled; alternator replaced twice on same vehicle; timing of replacements not specified.
Symptoms owners cite: Turn signals non-functional despite bulb replacement; Brake lights non-functional despite bulb replacement; Alternator failure requiring replacement; Failure of oil pressure and check engine lights to warn of impending failure; Battery warning light illumination in some stalling events
Repairs/costs cited: Alternator replaced twice on same vehicle. No specific repair costs documented for electrical components.
Post-warranty engine failure after dealership engine replacement
Vehicle returned from dealership after four-month engine replacement, then failed again within short distance of pickup. Smoke, fluid leakage, and stalling developed on highway immediately after leaving service facility.
When: Failure occurs 4 months after engine replacement by Kia dealership; second failure is catastrophic.
Symptoms owners cite: Smell and smoke from engine after engine replacement repair; Fluid leaking from engine; Engine stalling on highway after service pickup; Vehicle will not restart after second failure
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle required second tow after leaving dealership following engine replacement. Water added to engine as temporary measure but leaked through bottom.
Synthesized from 42 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 7 most recent
The contact owns a 2016 Kia forte. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was not able to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the vehicle failed to start. The independent mechanic diagnosed that the starter needed to be…
My car has had 2 engine failures in the last 2 years. The first time the repair was performed by Jeff Wyler Superior KIA in Cincinnati, Ohio a little over a year ago. Currently it's at Jeff Wyler KIA in Fairfield, Ohio awaiting repair. There diagnosis is another engine failure. There were no warning lamps before either engine failure. The first time the engine made noises so I stopped…
Driving the car smelled a gas smell, then later a burning smell, then the car stalled, cranked it again it stalled again. Was smoking under the hood. Had just had this car oil change and multipoint inspection they stated the car was fine. Today they tell me it's engine failure. We were driving when the car stalled.
After slowing and making a right turn onto another street, I tried to accelerate but the vehicle would not speed up in heavy traffic. After driving downhill 0.2 miles, I made another right turn and the vehicle would not accelerate uphill and was making a loud noise from the engine. I managed to limp home and parked the vehicle as the engine is now always making a loud knocking sound.
Piston rod failure
Was fixing to head and get my oil changed even though i still had about 570 miles left before i absolutely had to change the oil, my 2016 kia forte LX with the 1.8l engine with 79996 as of currently; lost power at around 15mph and started lugging after leaving my neighborhood gas station, luckily i was about 1/8 mile away from a kia service center so i drove it to the service dealer so i could…
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Forte. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the accelerator pedal made an abnormal grinding sound, and the vehicle failed to respond. Additionally, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. The contact also stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn. There was no warning light illuminated. The…
Had engine trouble with your 2016 Kia Forte Koup?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2016 Kia Forte Koup?
It's a meaningful issue. 42 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $3,100.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 18 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 57,000 and 105,000 miles, with the median around 74,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 57,000; a quarter make it past 105,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2016/Kia/Forte Koup.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.