2016 Kia Cadenza: common problems and reliability
One of the better Cadenza years.
14 owner complaints, most about visibility. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 2016 Cadenza?The 2016 Kia Cadenza has 14 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are visibility and engine. Owners most often flag recall for fire risk: specific recall noted for 2014-2016 sportage and cadenza models related to abs module faults, leading to a "park outside" advisory.
Safety record for the 2016 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2016 Kia Cadenza vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Cadenza years only. How we score it
Is 2016 a good year for the Cadenza?
Across the 6 Cadenza model years we track, complaint volume runs from 5 (2019) to 110 (2014). With 14 complaints, the 2016 Cadenza sits below the model's median of 32.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2016 Cadenza
visibility:windshield
Campaign 22V158000Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling all 2014-2016 Cadenza vehicles. During manufacturing, the front windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach.
service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/module
Campaign 23V652000Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is sharply divided, creating a high-risk, high-reward ownership profile.
- IsolatedRecall for fire risk
Specific recall noted for 2014-2016 Sportage and Cadenza models related to ABS module faults, leading to a "park outside" advisory.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Cadenza. See the full Cadenza owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Cadenza listings typically run $9,950–$15,295 across 2014 to 2020 model years.
Other Cadenza model years
Compare every Cadenza year side by side to see how 2016 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Cadenza against its rivals
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