TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: THETA II 2.4L GDI EMISSIONS ECM LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (SC340) - 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 to upgrade the Electronic Control Module ‘ECM’ system software for certain 2016-2022MY vehicles equipped with 2.4L Theta II engines listed in the table below. Kia has become aware that certain 2016-2022MY vehicles equipped with 2.4L Theta II engines may have engine calibrations that were not optimized for emissions standards under certain specific conditions. These calibrations may cause the
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2016 Kia Sportage engine problems
moderate Owners of the 2016 Kia Sportage have filed 41 NHTSA complaints about the engine, typically surfacing around 105,000 miles at roughly $3,100 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
41
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
| Model year | engine complaints |
|---|---|
| 2012 Sportage | 296 |
| 2013 Sportage | 278 |
| 2014 Sportage | 58 |
| 2015 Sportage | 58 |
| 2016 Sportage (this page) | 41 |
| 2017 Sportage | 153 |
| 2018 Sportage | 65 |
| 2019 Sportage | 22 |
| 2020 Sportage | 65 |
2fires
When does it fail?
Of the 41 engine complaints filed for the 2016 Kia Sportage, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 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 8 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 41 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.
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: THETA II 2.4L GDI EMISSIONS ECM LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (SC340) - This bulletin provides information to upgrade the Electronic Control Module ‘ECM’ system software for certain 2016-2022MY vehicles equipped with 2.4L Theta II engines listed in the table below. Kia has become aware that certain 2016-2022MY vehicles equipped with 2.4L Theta II engines may have engine calibrations that were not optimized for emissions standards under certain specific conditions. These calibrations may cause the vehicle to release air pollutants which exceed Federal and California standards. These standards were established to protect your health and wel
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SC340_POC: PROOF OF CORRECTION CARD
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SC340_STKR: VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN COMPLETION LABEL/STICKER
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 2011-2024MY vehicles (refer to the table on pages 9 and 10 for applicable models 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
The 2016 Kia Sportage 2.4L engine is failing catastrophically in clusters around 100,000–120,000 miles. Owners describe sudden engine knock sounds, rapid power loss, and complete shutdown often without any warning lights beforehand. Metal shavings found in oil pans and rod bearing failures are common findings. Multiple vehicles have caught fire; one burned completely while fire suppression equipment failed to extinguish it.
Dealers consistently misdiagnose early symptoms—dismissing knocking as A/C vents or rear latches—then recommend engine replacement only after failure occurs. Engine sludge buildup and excessive oil consumption appear in early ownership despite regular oil changes, suggesting an internal oil delivery defect Kia has not addressed.
The knock sensor recall (mailed to original owners in 2018) is the linchpin: if not completed before resale, Kia denies all warranty coverage and engine replacement to the current owner, citing the previous owner's negligence. Owners report buying used vehicles unaware of open recalls, then facing five-figure repair costs. One class action settlement for lifetime engine warranty coverage is reportedly being denied on the same technicality. Dealership communication is universally poor—calls and emails go unanswered, case workers are never available, and diagnostics are held hostage pending warranty decisions.
Same Kia Sportage engine reports on nearby years: 2013 · 2014 · 2015 · 2017 · 2018
Failure modes owners describe
Engine Knock / Rod Bearing Failure
Engine develops abnormal knocking sound from the engine compartment, often accompanied by power loss and eventual engine seizure. Owners report the knock sound appearing without warning or diagnostic lights initially. Metal shavings found in oil pan in at least one case. Multiple complaints describe this as a catastrophic failure requiring full engine replacement.
When: Typically between 82,000–137,000 miles; some reports as early as 50,000 miles; clusters heavily around 100,000–120,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Abnormal knocking or rattling noise from engine; Loss of motive power while driving; Engine check light illuminated (in some cases); Engine seizure and inability to restart; No warning lights in many cases before failure; Metal shavings in oil pan; Loud noise and vibration from engine
Codes mentioned: P0014 (Camshaft position timing over-advanced or system performance)
Repairs/costs cited: Full engine replacement required in majority of cases; one case reports engine replacement did not resolve rod bearing failure. Owners cite costs in the thousands. One owner paid $301.85 for knock sensor replacement only to experience camshaft sensor failure days later.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia denied coverage citing incomplete knock sensor recall service (Campaign related to knock sensor update); some owners informed recall was mailed to previous owner and not completed; Class Action Settlement mentioned in one narrative for Engine Long Block recall with lifetime warranty coverage, but Kia denying claims on technicality of incomplete prior software recall
Engine Stall / Loss of Power
Engine suddenly stalls or loses all power while driving at highway or city speeds, with no warning and vehicle unable to restart immediately. Some cases involve complete electrical shutdown. Poses serious safety hazard as vehicle loses steering assist and brakes.
When: Various mileages reported; examples at 50k, 60k, 105k, 110k miles
Symptoms owners cite: Complete engine shutdown while driving; Loss of steering and brake assist; Vehicle will not restart immediately; Check engine light may illuminate before or after stall; No warning in many cases; Loss of power steering control
Repairs/costs cited: Engine replacement recommended by dealers and independent mechanics in multiple cases. One owner reports engine was replaced but failure recurred with rod bearing failure diagnosed afterward.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia cited missing knock sensor recall update or poor prior maintenance; one owner states Kia denied assistance citing previous owner did not complete software update in 2018
Engine Fire
Engine becomes engulfed in flames while vehicle is in operation or shortly after stalling. Multiple owners report smoke, fuel smell, and fire originating from under the hood. One documented total vehicle loss with fire department response.
When: 118,860 miles (documented case); other cases cite engine near-seizure with smoke and imminent fire risk
Symptoms owners cite: Smoke from under hood; Fuel smell; Fireballs shooting from underneath vehicle; Engine becoming totally engulfed in flames; Check engine light may be illuminated
Repairs/costs cited: One vehicle completely destroyed by fire; others report engine seized and fire risk imminent. One owner reports dealer advised 'hoping you don't catch on fire' is unacceptable guidance.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One owner reports Kia corporation in CA has no remedy or part available; no assistance offered
Excessive Oil Consumption / Engine Sludge
Engine consumes oil rapidly or accumulates sludge internally despite regular oil changes. Dealers describe sludge visible via borescope inspection. Oil level drops to dangerous levels within weeks of service. No warning lights in early stages.
When: Early in ownership; examples at 29k, 50k, 60k miles
Symptoms owners cite: Oil level drops to very low within 2–4 weeks of oil change; Visible sludge inside engine (per borescope inspection); Black liquid dripping from front end; Oil light may eventually illuminate; Smoke from exhaust; Engine unable to accelerate above 45 mph in one case
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers have recommended engine replacement; some owners cite concerns about oil delivery system defect. One owner reports warranty voided by dealer.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers blamed owners for maintenance, voided warranties, and refused to honor coverage; one owner cites research suggesting Kia refusing to address known oil delivery system problem
Knock Sensor Failure / Incomplete Recall Service
Knock sensor fails or recall service (sensor update) is not completed on vehicle, leaving owner vulnerable to catastrophic engine knock failures. Multiple owners report recalls were mailed to previous owner and not performed; current owners unaware of open recalls when purchasing used vehicles.
When: Recalls issued in 2018; failures occur when update not completed by time of current ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Engine knock develops after recall service not completed; Engine seizes due to lack of knock sensor protection; No warning until catastrophic knock occurs
Codes mentioned: Knock sensor diagnostic codes (referenced but not spelled out in all narratives)
Repairs/costs cited: Knock sensor replacement costs ~$300–$302; however, replacement alone does not prevent recurrence and multiple owners report camshaft sensor or other failures shortly after knock sensor service. One owner reports paying for diagnostic and knock sensor replacement without resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia denies coverage citing incomplete recall service; multiple owners cite notification was mailed to previous owner and manufacturer claims not responsible for completing recall after sale; Class Action Settlement cited with lifetime engine warranty but Kia denying claims on technicality of incomplete prior recall
Timing System / Camshaft Timing Failure
Timing belt or camshaft timing system fails, causing engine performance loss and potential catastrophic damage. One owner diagnosed with loose timing belt and possible internal engine damage.
When: P0014 code reported; one case at 101k miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine deceleration while driving; Flashing check engine light; Jerky transmission response; All dashboard lights flashing before complete shutdown; Engine sounds like 'it's gonna blow up' after sensor replacement
Codes mentioned: P0014 (Camshaft position timing over-advanced or system performance bank 1)
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement camshaft sensor cost $89; however, mechanic assessed loose timing belt and possible engine damage requiring replacement. Owner reports ~$600 spent with problem unresolved.
Poor Dealership Diagnosis and Communication
Dealership misdiagnoses engine problems, blames maintenance failures, denies recalls, and provides poor communication with owners. Multiple owners report being told issues are minor (e.g., A/C shutters, rear seat latches) when problems are catastrophic engine failure.
When: Throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Knocking sound dismissed as A/C vents or rear seat issue; Engine problems not diagnosed despite owner complaints; Recalls not performed or not communicated; Poor response to phone calls and emails; Blame shifted to owner maintenance
Repairs/costs cited: One owner reports dealership charged $400–$415 for 30k-mile service before engine failed; another reports $170 diagnostic fee with vehicle held at dealer for months. Multiple owners describe being quoted full engine replacement costs without warranty coverage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia Consumer Affairs provides poor communication; multiple owners report being told their case worker is never available; Kia refuses warranty claims citing maintenance records insufficient or prior recall not completed
Synthesized from 41 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
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 fire brigade to stop the fire. Later we had to tow the car to home. I called a mechanic to evaluate…
Vehicle went from operating fine to a flashing yellow engine light. Within minutes, the vehicle could not be safely driven. There was a knocking and vibration from the engine.
As we were driving my niece home from school about a block from her house, the car started loosing power and when we pulled over to let her out, the car shut off on its own and would not start back on. We waited a while and tried to turn it back on, but it did not do anything. There were no messages or anything saying something was wrong
I own a 2016 Kia sportage and in january 2019 on a trip to a nearby town the car engine started to catch. At this time the car only had about 29,000 miles on it and had the oil changed about 4 weeks prior. My husband checked the all the fluids and found the car had very little oil in it. We were surprised since no warning lights ever came on and we had just change the oil. He put oil in it and…
Had engine trouble with your 2016 Kia Sportage?
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 Sportage?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 41 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 17 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 61,000 and 118,860 miles, with the median around 105,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 61,000; a quarter make it past 118,860. 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/Sportage.
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.