You’re looking at a used car lot, and there it is. A 2016 Kia Forte LX. It looks sharp—cleaner lines than the Civics of that era, maybe a bit more "European" thanks to Peter Schreyer’s design influence. But then you start wondering. Is a decade-old Kia actually a smart buy, or are you just asking for a massive headache? Honestly, the 2016 Forte LX is one of those cars that people either absolutely love for its value or deeply regret because they didn't do their homework on the engine.
It's a weird spot in automotive history.
In 2016, Kia was still fighting that "cheap car" reputation, even though they were winning quality awards left and right. The LX was the base trim. The "entry level" stuff. You’ve got a car that was meant to be affordable when new, which means it’s dirt cheap now. But "cheap" can be expensive if you aren't careful.
What’s Under the Hood of the 2016 Kia Forte LX?
Most of these you'll find on the market come with the 1.8-liter Multi-Point Injection (MPI) inline-four engine. It puts out about 145 horsepower. Is it fast? No. Not even a little bit. If you’re trying to merge onto a busy interstate with four adults in the car, you’re going to hear that engine scream.
But there’s a catch.
The LX trim actually came with two different engine possibilities depending on when it was manufactured and where. While the 1.8L was standard, some later "LX" designations or specific regional builds might have the 2.0L Nu engine. You need to check the VIN. Why? Because the 1.8L has a history.
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this era of Kia engines faced some scrutiny regarding oil consumption and internal wear. It’s not just "Internet talk." There were actual recalls and service bulletins. Specifically, look out for "engine knock." If you hear a rhythmic tapping when you cold-start a 2016 Kia Forte LX, walk away. Don't let the dealer tell you it's just "fuel injectors." It’s often the piston skirt or a bearing issue that leads to total engine failure.
✨ Don't miss: Why T. Pepin’s Hospitality Centre Still Dominates the Tampa Event Scene
The transmission, though, is surprisingly solid.
Kia used a traditional 6-speed automatic (or a 6-speed manual if you're lucky enough to find one). Unlike the CVTs found in the Nissan Sentra or the early jerky dual-clutch setups in some Fords, this 6-speed is predictable. It shifts when it’s supposed to. It doesn't hunt for gears. If you change the fluid every 60,000 miles, it’ll likely outlast the rest of the car.
The Interior: Plastic, Tech, and Reality
Step inside. It’s dark. Very dark.
Kia loved black plastic in 2016. The LX trim doesn't give you the fancy UVO infotainment system with the big screen unless the original owner opted for the Popular Package. Most LX models have a basic dot-matrix display. It looks like a calculator from 1995. But hey, it has Bluetooth. Usually. And USB ports.
The seats are cloth. They’re fine for a 20-minute commute. If you’re driving six hours to visit family, your lower back might start a protest. There isn't much lumbar support here.
One thing that genuinely surprises people is the roominess. For a compact car, the 2016 Kia Forte LX feels big. You can actually fit grown humans in the back seat without them tucking their knees into their chin. The trunk is also massive—14.9 cubic feet. That’s more than some mid-sized sedans from the same year. You can fit a stroller, a week's worth of groceries, and a sense of financial responsibility back there.
🔗 Read more: Human DNA Found in Hot Dogs: What Really Happened and Why You Shouldn’t Panic
Real World Fuel Economy
The EPA says you should get about 30 MPG combined. 26 city, 37-ish highway.
Does it actually do that? Kinda.
If you drive like a normal person, you’ll see 33 MPG on the highway all day long. But the 1.8L engine works hard. If you live in a hilly area or you’re a "lead foot" driver, that fuel economy tanks. You'll see 22 MPG in the city if you’re aggressive. It’s a small engine, so every time you floor it to get around a slow truck, you’re basically pouring gas straight onto the pavement.
The "Kia Boyz" and the Insurance Nightmare
We have to talk about it. It’s the elephant in the room.
The 2016 Kia Forte LX uses a traditional "turn-key" ignition. It does not have an engine immobilizer. This made this specific model a prime target for the "Kia Boyz" theft trend that blew up on social media a few years ago.
Before you buy one, call your insurance agent. Seriously. Do it now.
💡 You might also like: The Gospel of Matthew: What Most People Get Wrong About the First Book of the New Testament
Some companies, like State Farm or Progressive, have historically refused to issue new policies on these specific VINs in certain zip codes. Others will charge you a "theft surcharge" that makes your monthly premium higher than the car payment. Kia did release a software update to fix the alarm logic, and they offer steering wheel locks, but the reputation sticks.
If the car you're looking at has a push-button start? You're safe. But 99% of LX trims were key-start. It’s a major point of friction that most sellers won't bring up until you've already handed over the cash.
Maintenance: What Will Break?
It’s a ten-year-old car. Things will break.
- Tires: The LX comes with 15-inch or 16-inch wheels. These tires are cheap to replace. That's a win.
- Brakes: The rotors tend to warp if you're hard on them. You'll feel a wobble in the steering wheel when braking from high speeds.
- Headlights: For some reason, these cars eat halogen bulbs. Expect to change a headlight every 18 months.
- Suspension: The rear uses a torsion beam. It’s simple. It’s durable. But it’s bouncy. If the car feels like it’s "fishtailing" over bumps (the "bum-steer" effect), your rear shocks are shot.
Is It Better Than a Civic or Corolla?
Honestly? No. Not in terms of pure longevity.
A 2016 Corolla will likely hit 300,000 miles with nothing but oil changes and spite. The 2016 Kia Forte LX requires a bit more vigilance. However, the Kia is usually $3,000 to $4,000 cheaper than the equivalent Toyota.
That’s the trade-off. You’re paying less upfront for a car that feels more modern and has a better warranty (when new), but you’re taking a gamble on the long-term engine health. If you find one with 80,000 miles and a stack of maintenance records showing oil changes every 5,000 miles? It’s a great deal. If the oil on the dipstick looks like chocolate syrup? Run.
Actionable Steps for Potential Buyers
If you are seriously considering a 2016 Kia Forte LX, do not skip these steps:
- Check the VIN for Engine Recalls: Go to the NHTSA website and plug in the VIN. See if the knock sensor detection system (KSDS) update was performed. This is vital for potential warranty extensions.
- Verify Insurance Coverage: Call your provider with the VIN. Ask specifically if they are covering this model and if there is a premium hike due to theft risk.
- The "Cold Start" Test: Never let a seller "warm up" the car before you get there. You want to hear that engine when it’s cold. Listen for any metallic tapping or knocking.
- Look for the Steering Wheel Lock: If the software update hasn't been done, ensure the seller provides the Kia-approved steering wheel lock, or factor the cost of an aftermarket immobilizer into your offer.
- Inspect the Cabin Air Filter: It sounds small, but Kia owners who neglect this usually neglect other things. If it’s clogged with leaves and dust, they probably didn't change the transmission fluid either.
The 2016 Kia Forte LX is a solid, honest commuter car that got caught up in some corporate engineering blunders. It handles well, looks decent, and won't break the bank at the pump. Just make sure you're buying a well-maintained example, or that "cheap" price tag will turn into a very expensive lesson in engine replacement.